My philosophy and expectations - if you're interested.
What and how will we learn?
Science is more than a collection of facts to be memorized, it is a special way of understanding the world around us.
In this class you will not only be learning to understand plants, matter, rocks and minerals, space, and the environment, but you will also be practicing the scientific method of uncovering information, and learning how it affects your life.
My goals for this year are that you will learn more than last year’s students and that we will have more fun in the process. I hope you will help to make this happen.
What will I need?
Other than your enthusiastic self, please bring the following to class each day:
pencils and paper your planner your 3 ring science binder
text book* (1 1/2” with 4 dividers)
*If assigned for the unit or you have checked one out overnight
A simple calculator and at least one pocket for papers in your binder are suggested but not required.
Guidelines:
Please follow these guidelines in order to insure a productive and safe year for yourself and the rest of the class.
Be Prompt and Prepared
We have so little time in class each hour, it is important we make the most of what we have, therefore, students are asked to be in their seat, ready with materials, and started on the opening assignment at the bell.
Be Productive
The best way to assure success in class is to complete all assignments, so, make good use of your time in class, ask the questions you need to understand, and complete all homework.
Be Polite and respectful
Each of us does our best work in an environment of trust and support. Help provide that atmosphere by following the set of behavioral agreements your class has created.
Be Positive
The most important tool for success is the belief that you can succeed.
Be Safe
Follow all lab safety guidelines given for each lab. One person not following safety guidelines is a hazard to the whole class, any unsafe behavior will not be tolerated and will result in exclusion from a lab or labs.
Grading:
You will be keeping a list of the grades you earn on each of your assignments and I will teach you how to calculate your grade so you will be able to keep track of your grade. It is my goal this year to save my grade book electronically and to provide access to you and your parents.
The key to doing well will be completing all assignments, doing your best on tests and asking for help if you need it. I am available any day at lunch, by arrangement. I also stay after school almost everyday. If no meetings are scheduled, I am happy to help students. An after school schedule will be posted on my web site.
Students who have been absent are responsible for making up the work that they miss. Check the planner for assignments given, handouts will be in folders at front of the room. Students have one day to make up missed work for every day they were absent. After this work is discounted 10% for each day late. This includes labs, students who have been absent should plan on arranging to make up missed lab assignments and films.
Together we can make this an awesome year!
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