Michigan - MSTEP released items MSTEP: Grade 11 - Science (3/4/2026)
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Last updated 4 months ago
14 Nsɛmmisa
1
Read the passage, look at the pictures, and answer the questions.
The gases that make up Earths atmosphere have changed over time. Scientists measure the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in Earths atmosphere. The simplified Carbon Cycle Model shows locations where carbon is stored and processes that move carbon from one location to another.
Scientists can use carbon cycle models to help make predictions about the amounts of carbon in different locations. Use this Carbon Cycle Model to identify all the processes that would decrease
This question has two parts.
The graph shows data about atmospheric concentrations collected in Mauna Loa, Hawaii, since 1960.
Use the data and the Carbon Cycle Model to explain the pattern of atmospheric concentrations over time.
Part A The data show that atmospheric CO2 concentrations have ________ over time. A increased B decreased C stayed the same
In 2007, the U.S. Geological Survey estimated that the global polar bear population will shrink to a third of its current size by 2050, due to loss of habitat and less access to prey. “Polar bears are declining because they use sea ice as hunting platforms to catch their primary prey, seals. But when that ice is there, it’s really jumbled up due to freezing and refreezing events. The seals may be there, but the polar bears can’t get to them. The observed loss of sea ice in the Arctic has been greater than earlier climate models. We’re losing ice faster than forecasted.”
—Jeff Bromaghin, U.S. Geological Survey statistician
Part A
Based on the excerpt and your knowledge of atmospheric changes, complete the model by choosing the correct label to show the relationship between solar radiation absorption and the available amount of sea ice that affects the polar bears’ access to prey in the Arctic.
Use the model in Part A to explain how atmospheric changes are affecting polar bears’ access to prey in the Arctic.
Part B This pattern is most likely due to the process of _________ .
This question has three parts.
The graph shows the data collected during the investigation.
Part A
Based on the graph, which statement best explains the difference in the temperature pattern between the substances?
This question has two parts.
The students decided to modify the original investigation to answer a new question.
New Question: Does reflection of solar radiation have a role in the changing amount of sea ice?
Part A Choose one modification that would best help to answer the new question
Part B
Choose one reasoning that supports the modification.