NAC389.6575. Alternative method to demonstrate proficiency in science.

     1. A pupil who is currently enrolled in the 12th grade and who satisfies the requirements of paragraph (b) of subsection 1 of NRS 389.805 may demonstrate proficiency in science by submitting to the Department of Education a portfolio of work prepared by the pupil.

     2. The portfolio of work submitted pursuant to subsection 1 must:

     (a) Demonstrate proficiency in the academic standards for science, including, without limitation, proficiency in life science, earth science, physical science and environmental science.

     (b) Include:

          (1) One completed design for a scientific experiment;

          (2) One sample of work which requires the analysis and interpretation of a data set; and

          (3) One other sample of work which demonstrates the pupil’s knowledge of and ability to use and apply basic and integrated skills relating to the scientific process, including, without limitation:

               (I) A science project or laboratory report based on data generated by the pupil;

               (II) A completed project for a science fair, which is consolidated into a single document that accurately reflects the project; or

               (III) Any other sample of work which demonstrates the pupil’s knowledge, ability and skills relating to the scientific process.

     3. The Department of Education shall prescribe the dates by which the portfolio of work must be submitted to ensure that a pupil is granted the opportunity to satisfy the requirements of this section before graduation from high school. A pupil shall submit the completed portfolio of work and the certification required by subsection 4 to the appropriate testing department of the school district on or before the dates specified by the Department of Education. The testing department shall forward each completed packet to the Department of Education for scoring.

     4. A teacher or other licensed personnel at the school in which the pupil is enrolled and the principal of that school shall certify that the portfolio of work submitted by the pupil is the pupil’s own work.

     5. Submissions that do not meet the requirements of this section will be classified as “Insufficient” and will not be scored.

     6. The Department of Education shall, in collaboration with licensed educational personnel, develop guidelines for evaluating portfolios of work submitted by pupils pursuant to this section. The guidelines must require a pupil to meet or exceed the academic standards for science.

     (Added to NAC by Bd. of Education by R037-09, eff. 10-27-2009)