Stella, Barbara: Syllabus

Course Description:
Students will study a variety of topics in the three major areas of science: earth, life, and physical. Incorporated throughout these topics will be practical applications of scientific thought, technology, equipment usage, and communication of findings. In addition, the influence of science on history, as well as modern society, will be explored.

Resources:
Students will use a variety of materials including the Holt Science and Technology textbook series, which is available online at http://my.hrw.com. This class will incorporate interactive computer software, power point presentations, information from the Internet, instructional videos, hands-on activities as well as the laboratory experiments to expose students to a variety of instructional strategies.

Absences:
Students are responsible for asking for and returning missed assignments within the time allowed as stated in the student handbook.

Classroom Expectations:
   Follow directions the FIRST time.
   Come into class quietly and begin bellwork.
   Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
   Raise your hand to be acknowledged.
   Show respect toward teachers, peers, and yourself.
   Always DO YOUR BEST!

Consequences:
   Positive-verbal praise, positive parent contact, student of the month
   Negative-Strike One-Warning
                   Strike Two-Lunch Detention
                   Strike Three-Misconduct

** Severe Disruptions: Students sent immediately to office.
Any referral resulting in suspension will prevent the student from attending team field trips for that marking period. See field trip policy below for additional information.

Assignments:
[1] Each student will be expected to do ALL assignments such as readings, group participation, labs, projects, and chapter/unit activities, etc.
[2] Each student will be expected to complete at least one oral report or presentation.
[3] Each student will complete formal short and extended responses and expository/persuasive prompts. At least two per marking period.
[4] Each student will complete an individual science project.

Assessment:
   [1] Labs 40%
   [2] Tests/Projects/Quizzes 40%
   [3] Assignments 20%

Effort Grade: This grade will reflect a student effort and adherence of classroom/school rules.

Materials:
    4 Green two pocket folders with prongs

Materials to bring to class and store in Team Binder:
    College Rule Loose Leaf Paper
    Pencils
    Red Ink Pen
    Colored Pencils (no work in marker will be accepted)
    Pencil Sharpener
    Metric Ruler
    Scissors
    Calculator

Latework:
    Students will receive a maximum of 70% for any late work turned in.

Assignments:
   Students will receive class time to complete assignments. Students who do not finish assignments in class will be required to finish at home. Students who do not complete assignments on a regular basis will be placed in a working lunch to ensure completion.

Extra Credit:
    A student can earn extra credit for work done on the Chapter Review of the current chapter of study in the student's textbook. One half percent will be earned for each correct answer and will be applied to test grades.

Online Gradebook:
    Both parents and students will have access to my online gradebook at
http://www.teacherease.com Each parent and student will receive a login and password. I will use this gradebook to record grades and behaviors. You will periodically receive email messages concerning missing assignments, accomplishments, behavior issues, and reminders. If you are concerned about your child's academics or behavior this is your best source of information.