d Life Sciences Concepts: The student produces evidence that demonstrates understanding of interdependence of organisms, such as…competition among organisms in ecosystems; and human effects on the environment.
The student states that, by itself, natural competition among predator species doesn’t significantly impact any one species. This conclusion was drawn directly from the data collected during the simulation.
The student draws a correct conclusion about the indirect impact of pollution on a predator species.

e Life Sciences Concepts: The student produces evidence that demonstrates understanding of matter, energy, and organization in living systems, such as…environmental constraints.
The student demonstrates understanding of seasonal and climate constraints on a food chain.
The student recognizes the effect on the carrying capacity of an increase in a predator population. It should be noted, however, that the student’s statement directly conflicts the conclusion drawn in item . While both conclusions are logical and each one is correct within specific environmental conditions, the student should be challenged to describe in a revision the conditions that would support each statement.

c Scientific Connections and Applications: The student produces evidence that demonstrates understanding of health, such as…resources, environmental stress, and population growth.
The student’s conclusions are drawn directly from data collected during the simulation.