Ingomar Middle School Eighth Grade Science Mr. Schaefers
8/27/07

 

Welcome to Eighth Grade Earth & Space Science

 

The middle school years are a time for your child to be involved in many exciting and rewarding experiences. During the school year we will explore different topics and aspects of science in the world and universe.  We will be exploring chemistry, the elements, geology, rocks and minerals, the national parks, cryogenics, technology and electronics, mapping, computer spreadsheets, graphing, contests, renewable and nonrenewable resources, astronomy, inventions, earthquake and volcanic topics, geologic history, water resources, oceans, and weather.

Textbook Use

The text we use is Earth Science published by Heath. There are a variety of other references and resources we will use, including teacher generated materials. The textbook will be used primarily as a reference to explore relationships and not as a curriculum guide.  Homework related to the textbook will be given about two times a week.

The Basic Requirements for Class

Students will need a folder and a notebook (1 1/2” 3 ring binder). Students are required to keep their science homework and other materials in a portfolio (folder) in class or notebook.  A storage space is provided for the student to keep materials in the classroom. The notebook will be required to record science labs, journal/notebooks and to take notes. Students will also keep track of their grade on a paper provided for record keeping. The notebook and folder are graded.

How Students Are Graded

Students will be evaluated by a variety of assessment tools which include lab work, quizzes, journal/notebooks (three complete paragraphs and must contain at least six sentences), homework assignments must be turned in that period (chapter reviews if one day late half credit- two days zero credit), rubrics of basic skills, cooperative activities, portfolio (folder), projects, science notebook and other assignments. There will be a lot of hands on assignments.  Work is given a certain number of points. Students must keep a grade record sheet of their points earned daily.  The term average is the grade.  Extra credit will be offered depending on the topic and its merit of worth (various contests and competitions during the year). Students’ progress will be monitored and parents updated with reports.

Classroom Management

The eighth grade science pace during the first few weeks of school will enable students to become familiar with the classroom management and develop some new basic skills. Students will learn to use the TI- 84, calculator, Link, PC computer and other scientific instruments. Students will work in cooperative groups on a variety of projects or activities related to the curriculum.  Due dates on assignments are posted on the board and on all assignment papers (students will bring completed projects to be signed by parents). Homework must be placed in the in box during the period it is due. Makeup tests are given before or after school. Praise will be given for positive attitudes and work.

Classroom Discipline Plan

In order to guarantee all the students in my classroom the excellent educational climate they deserve, I have developed a Classroom Discipline Plan that affords every student the opportunity to manage and control his or her own behavior.  Since every student deserves the most positive educational climate possible for academic growth.

CLASSROOM RULES

      1.  Read and follow directions. Ask questions frequently.

      2.  Come to class promptly and be seated and be ready for class.

3.  Bring book, notebook, pen, pencil and all necessary materials
          to class. Do your own work.          

4.  Raise hand and wait to be called upon when you wish to speak.        5.  Be courteous and demonstrate mutual respect for others.         
    Practice safety.

      6.  Students must keep track of their own progress.
* All students must report to class on time.

   Three times late to class earns a detention.

* All students must come prepared for class daily.
   Three infractions will result in a detention.

If a student chooses to break a rule the following consequences will occur:

      1st time     Verbal warning- teacher Conference.

      2nd time     Parent/Guardian phone call.

      3rd time     Detention assigned. Parent/Guardian phone call.

                  Information shared with Guidance Counselor/ Principal

      SEVERE CLAUSE                       IMMEDIATELY SEND TO PRINCIPAL

*Also see Student Expectations handout.

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Parents:

I will discuss this Classroom Discipline Plan with my students, but I would appreciate it if you will also review the plan with your child, then sign and return the entire form.  Students will receive credit when returned. Included in my Discipline Plan are ways to positively reinforce students who behave appropriately. I will be in communication with you frequently throughout the year to keep you aware of your child’s progress.  Please feel free to contact me at any time.

                                                Sincerely,

                                                John Schaefers

                                                412- 348- 1470

Parents, please sign and return           _________________________

entire form. It will be returned:         Guardian /Parent signature

_________________________

Guardian /Parent signature

Student’s Name: ___________________    Period: ____

Students do not lose this paper.

It may be placed in the front of your folder or notebook.

See our web site:  www. scied.net\