What is Life Science?

Life science is the branch of science that deals with the study of living things and their relationship to one another and to their environment.   Major units of study in life science include:  Characteristics of Living Things, Microscopes and Cells, Simple Organisms, Plants, Animals, Human Biology, Animal Behavior and Adaptation, and Ecology.
 

HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS: 

Homework is assigned regularly. Each assignment normally requires 10-30 minutes to complete.  It is very important that you complete your homework assignments on time and with care.   Most homework assignments during the first quarter may be handed in one day late for reduced credit (-10%). During the second, third, and fourth quarters, homework assignments that are accepted one day late will be reduced 20%.

 

MISSING HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS: 

In the event that you fail to hand in a homework assignment, you will receive a zero for that assignment.  However, it is possible to receive a passing grade (65%) on a missed assignment if you make up the assignment in the classroom after school at 3:35 PM.  No credit will be given to missed assignments that have been completed at home.  Homework completed after school must be turned in within a reasonable amount of time (about a week).  Do not wait too long to make up missing work.  Please let me know during the regular school day if you plan on staying after school to make up missed work.                                        

BINDERS (notebooks):    

You need to keep your science papers organized in a 3-ring binder.   I will keep a binder index in the classroom that will help you keep your binder organized.  The pages will be kept in order according to their number.   Binders will be graded.     

 

STUDENT AGENDA:

You are to bring your student agenda to class each day.  All assignments for the week are to be recorded in your agenda.  You are encouraged to complete your assignments ahead of time whenever possible.  If your student agenda is lost, it should be replaced quickly.   Agendas can be purchased at the Acadia bookstore.  I will make regular checks to see that each student is bringing their agenda to class. 

 

QUIZZES/ TESTS:

 Quizzes are announced at least one day in advance. Tests are announced at least three days in advance.  Should you fail a quiz or test, it is possible to retake that quiz/test to receive a passing grade (min. 65%).  Retakes will be given after school at 3:35 PM.  Be sure to study or receive  help from me before a quiz or test retake.  Do not wait too long to retake a quiz or test.

 

LABS:                             

Lab activities will occur frequently.  You will have many hands-on opportunities for learning and investigating.  Most labs will require the completion of a lab report or worksheet.   Lab reports and worksheets are to be completed in pencil only. 

 

ATTENDANCE:                         

Whenever you are absent, you should try to make up your school work as quickly as possible. When you return from an absence, you should carefully check the black assignment binder in the classroom.   By  reading the binder, you can easily find out what you missed while you were absent and what you need to do to get caught up in science.  Bring your student agenda with you when you check the black binder. Be sure to record what you have missed.  When you have finished, sign your name on the binder page to verify that you have carefully read the binder for the day(s) you were absent. Be sure to hand in homework that may have been due on the day that you were absent.  Please understand that you are responsible for the task of requesting, completing and turning in missed assignments.

 

EXTRA HELP:                            

 During school hours, I am available for extra help in my classroom or science prep room.  My schedule for receiving extra help will be posted in the room.  The odds are very good that I will be “free” to help you when you are “free”.  It is also possible for you to meet with me  after school.  Please let me know during the regular school day if you are planning on staying after school for extra help in science.

 

BEHAVIOR:                              

Exceptional behavior is necessary in any laboratory classroom.  During laboratory activities you are to work quietly with your lab partner.  When it is necessary for you to leave your desk, always try to move around the classroom in a manner that will make for a safe and productive environment.  Your ability and willingness to follow directions is taken into consideration when I grade your lab reports.

 

CONCERNS?                             

Feel free to talk to me about any concerns that you may have regarding your progress in science class.  I always try to do my best to be a good listener and to treat people fairly.  It is my hope that you will try to do the same.  Welcome to 7th grade!  I sincerely enjoy teaching 7th graders and hope that you will enjoy being a member of our science classroom.