Agard Base
Back to all DLL levels
Investigator Band · INVDLL 9

Investigator Phase - DLL 9

Learners at DLL 9 design and critique multi-dimensional data stories. They validate sources, trace reasoning chains, and assess how presentation choices influence belief. Accuracy, empathy, and transparency converge as hallmarks of professional-grade integrity.

Standards version 1.0 · Released 1/1/2025

Standards

DLL 9 Standards (10)

Band: Investigator · Strand coverage: 5

INV.F.9.1

Foundations · F

DOK 3

Learner identifies and compares different data models (tables, maps, infographics, dashboards).

Evidence

Explains what each model adds or omits when telling a story.

Global Links

CCSS · 8–9.SP
ISTE · 1a

INV.F.9.2

Foundations · F

DOK 4

Learner evaluates data source reliability using origin, method, and bias cues.

Evidence

Distinguishes peer-reviewed data from unverified social posts.

Global Links

NGSS · SEP Analyzing Data
OECD_LC2030 · (Source Evaluation)

INV.R.9.1

Reading & Interpreting · R

DOK 4

Learner synthesizes information from two or more different visual formats.

Evidence

Integrates chart and map to explain regional differences.

Global Links

CCSS · RST.9-10.7
ISTE · 3a

INV.R.9.2

Reading & Interpreting · R

DOK 4

Learner detects conflicting claims and reconciles them with evidence.

Evidence

Identifies which dataset better supports a conclusion.

Global Links

C3 · D3 (Evaluating Sources)
NGSS · SEP Constructing Explanations

INV.C.9.1

Creating & Communicating · C

DOK 4

Learner produces a blended data narrative combining visuals and text for clarity.

Evidence

Creates slide or dashboard with explanatory captions.

Global Links

ISTE · 6a
UNESCO_MIL · (Integrated Media Literacy)

INV.C.9.2

Creating & Communicating · C

DOK 4

Learner revises presentation to avoid rhetorical bias (color, scale, omission).

Evidence

Adjusts design to remove manipulative emphasis.

Global Links

ISTE · 6b
UNESCO_MIL · (Ethical Presentation)

INV.CR.9.1

Critical & Ethical · CR

DOK 4

Learner critiques how data framing shapes public opinion.

Evidence

Explains that title wording or axis choice influences viewer perception.

Global Links

ISTE · 2a
UNESCO_MIL · Framing Analysis

INV.CR.9.2

Critical & Ethical · CR

DOK 4

Learner proposes transparent practices to strengthen trust in shared data.

Evidence

Suggests adding open data links or confidence intervals.

Global Links

CASEL · Responsible Decision
OECD_LC2030 · (Transparency & Trust)

INV.L.9.1

Leadership & Application · L

DOK 4

Learner leads a peer investigation comparing multiple data sources for fairness.

Evidence

Guides group toward balanced interpretation and citation.

Global Links

C3 · D2 (Civic Inquiry)
CASEL · Collaboration

INV.L.9.2

Leadership & Application · L

DOK 4

Learner communicates findings ethically in public or digital forums.

Evidence

Presents results citing sources, limits, and implications respectfully.

Global Links

ISTE · 7a (Digital Citizenship)
UNESCO_SDG · 4.7

Level Summary

At DLL 9, learners practice ethical synthesis—integrating evidence, context, and conscience. They realize that interpretation is a public act: how one represents truth shapes collective trust. By merging accuracy with empathy, they complete the Investigator arc, ready to step into the Advocate phase where insight becomes civic voice.

DLL 9 | Data Literacy Levels | Chart-Ed Institute