Curriculum

           Students will study a general science curriculum.  They will begin the year with a unit on environmental science.  Key points of study will include food chains and webs, succession, biomes and invasive species.  Next, the students will be complete a unit on matter.  Properties of matter, types of matter and measuring matter will be the key points of study during this unit.  The third unit that is studied will be a unit on atomic structure.  As part of this unit students will study the structure of the atom as well as the organization of the periodic table.  The fourth unit of study will be a unit on motion and force.  As part of this unit the students will study principals of motion with an emphasis on Newton's Laws of Motion.  The next unit is a brief introduction to the Earth's surface.  Students will study soil formation as well as different ways weathering and erosion occur.  The final unit of study will be a unit on cells.  As part of this unit students will study the parts of the cell and their function.  Students will also study the various body systems and their functions.  This unit will culminate with frog dissection.

Expectations

           All students are expected to be prepared for class.  This includes a pencil, notebook and textbook unless otherwise noted.  Always remember to be courteous.  I will treat you with respect and I expect you to do the same towards your classmates and myself.

 Notebooks

           All students are expected to keep a notebook.  In science the notes that are given are crucial in order to pass a test or quiz.  If you are absent, you are expected to get the notes from a classmate or the web page.  

Grading

           All students are graded based on points not percentages.  Student grades will come from quizzes, tests and homework.  Quizzes will range from 10-25 points. Tests will be from 25 points up.  Homework assignments are worth between 2 and 16 points.  If an assignment is turned in on time, you will receive full credit.  If an assignment is turned in late you will receive half credit.  If an assignment is not turned in by test day, you will be given a 0 for that assignment. 

          If you are absent the day a homework assignment is given, you are expected to check the homework hotline and see me when you return if necessary.  Any missed assignments should be turned in the following school day.  After that, the above homework procedures apply.

          Please keep in mind that homework is meant to be practice before a test.  I expect that all students attempt the assignment that is given. Assignments will always be checked in class or collected by me so that I can monitor your progress.