Grade 7 Science
Course Overview / Grading Rationale/ Rules / Expectations
2011-2012
Course Description: Grade 7 Science is an interdisciplinary course that covers a number of concepts in earth and life science. This course will be divided into broad units covering science process skills and tools, experimentation practices, astronomy, geology and earth’s changing structure, cells and heredity, the human body, and microbiology. Science is a human endeavor and continuous discoveries add to our ever-expanding knowledge base. As a result, it is important for students to be active citizens and learners of science beyond a textbook. Current events related to science will be utilized. Lab investigations in the classroom and out in the field will supplement the learning.
Course Content:
- Metric system
- Scientific Method
- Astronomy
- Microbes- food preservation & production
- Cells & Heredity
- The Human Body
- Geology
- Science Action Project
Materials & Supplies: Each student is expected to come prepared to class with a spiral or 3-ring binder notebook, a folder (can be built into the notebook), a pen/pencil, and the relevant text or handouts. Colored pencils and a calculator will be necessary for some lessons.
Grading: Tests and quizzes will comprise approximately one third of your grade. The remainder will result from Lab scores, homework, Current Events, notebook grades, weekly spot checks for preparation and other relevant assignments. You are expected to track your grades earned on an organizer that I will provide and this will help to keep you up to date with what your current grade is in the class at all times. A total points system is used. For example, if all assignments for the entire semester add up to 1000 points and you earn 850 points on all assignments, tests, current events, etc., then your average would be 85%, which is equivalent to a letter grade of a B.
Homework: Homework will be assigned two to three times per week to extend your learning. This will account for approximately 25% of your work. Homework will be turned in or checked at the beginning of class. Homework will not be accepted if pride is not taken in your work. You must use your best handwriting (or typed), follow the rules for paper headings, and no spiral edges present. Homework assignments will be posted online at my CMS web page each day at: http://www.cantonschools.org/~mjorgensen/
Tests/Quizzes: Tests will be given two to three times per semester. We will always review the day before a test. Bring pencils sharpened on test days. Quizzes will be given at planned times. You need to study and review class notes in order to be prepared for test and quiz days. Expect a quiz nearly every week.
Current Events & Science Action Projects: For the first few months you will be need to find an article in a recent newspaper or magazine that is at least 12 paragraphs long and related to some topic in science. The article needs to be read, summarized in your own words, and a thought provoking question needs to be prepared in final copy form. You need to attach the original article and summarization organizer. You can read your summary to the class and pose your question for discussion for additional bonus points. Eventually, Current Events will progress into a larger choice-based science project. You will explore your chosen issue in depth, educate others on your topic, and develop an opinion and action plan for your topic. Current Events will be replaced with a monthly
Science Action project.
Extra Credit: Extra credit opportunities are always available. It will be your responsibility to discuss possible project ideas. For instance, you could complete a research report, present an experiment or poster, or share a power point. You need to discuss the extra credit project with me and all extra credit must be completed one week prior to the close of the marking period. All work must be properly documented using the MLA format. You may not use copy and paste for any of your work (extra credit or regular!)
Paper Headings: Each assignment or paper turned in must have the proper heading. The heading should include your first and last name, class period and subject, and the date.
Example: Abby Smith
Period A/ 7th Grade Science
September 1, 2006
CAPS: Capitalization, organization, punctuation and spelling count! Any work that was not timed will be assessed for these basic grammatical expectations. All rubrics will assess CAPS and be worth 20% of the final grade.
Attendance/Makeup Work: It is essential that you attend class regularly. Whenever you are absent for an excused reason, you are required to make up all assignments given outside of the regular class period. Makeup work is expected in a reasonable amount of time, commensurate with the length of the absence.
Extra Help: Please feel free to see me anytime you are having difficulty with the material. I will be available by appointment after school Tuesday through Thursday and before school from 7:00 to 7:30 am.
Behavioral Expectations: You are expected to come to class prepared for learning and ready to learn. All behavior that is not conducive to a positive learning environment will result in consequences including, but not limited to, detention. Students will serve detention after school from 2:20 to 3:00. Notice will be given according to the student handbook.
Power School: Shortly both you and your parents will receive a username and password that provides you access to your academic and attendance records. Each week I update the grades in the system and you will be able to view your assignments, grades, and any missing work. This is an excellent way to stay informed and aware of your progress.
Final Word: Remember that self-motivation, conscientiousness, and hard work are the key components for your academic success. Take pride in your work and care about your academic future. No one else can do that for you!
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