This week we will be continuing our study of the human body. Wednesday is a QUIZ on the respiratory system. Thursday we will begin our study of the nervous system.
We have begun writing an essay on the topic of "Childhood Obesity". This is a collaborative effort between Mrs. Rahe (Language Arts) and me (Science). Their rough draft will be due Monday, Feb. 13; I hope to have all final drafts by Friday, Feb. 17. I am taking a slow, methodical approach to writing the essay in order to receive quality papers from all students.
Science Curriculum:
We follow a general outline suggested by the textbook, but use a number of additional materials, lab activities, experiments, etc. We will cover:· The nature of science
· Atmosphere/Weather
· Systems of the Human Body
· Genetics/heredity
· Physics: forces, motion, work
Be Prepared!
Come to school each day ready to participate and learn. Always have:
- pencil/pen
- your science notebook
- your Agenda book
with you when you come to my class. Textbooks are on each desk. Pay attention! 80% of success is “showing up”!
Assigned Seats
At the start of the year, I alphabetically assign students to their seating location in my classroom. This helps me learn and remember names. I “adjust” seating as necessary to improve the discipline and communications within the classroom. If students request a particular location in the classroom, I will try to accommodate them.
Textbooks
A shared “classroom set” of textbooks will remain in my class, for use by students in each period. Student’s may “check out” a textbook, at any time, on a daily basis for use at home.
Homework:
Science homework assignments are used to reinforce topics and complete activities introduced in class.
Tests:
We will have a quarterly exam on every major topic! There will also be quizzes and pop tests. Some tests (but not all) will be preceded by a day of formal review.
Make-Up Tests/Work:
If you miss a day of class, homework assignment, test, etc., it is YOUR (the student's) responsibility to make up that work. Students may be assigned to Working Lunch until assignments are completed.
Grades
My grading scale conforms to the Daniels Middle School Handbook:
A = 93 – 100
B = 85 – 92
C = 77 – 84
D = 70 – 76
F = Less than 70
FF = Excessive Absences
Different activities will contribute to the overall grade, and be weighted in this manner:
Tests 30%
Labs 20%
Quizzes 20%
Homework 10%
Classwork 20%
I do not “give” grades—students earn them. I do everything in my power to help students succeed; I make it difficult for students to fail my classes. I reward effort.
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I welcome e-mail and other communications from parents. Your child's school success is our mutual goal. My e-mail: mansley@wcpss.net
I appreciate your support for your son or daughter and their efforts in science this year.
--Ray Ansley
