Welcome to Physical Science

Los angeles unified school district

George Ellery Hale Middle school

Physical Science 2014-2015 With Mrs. Ramirez

International Space Station (ISS)

INTRODUCTION

In a quickly changing world, it is important to be able to learn and evaluate all sorts of information. We are living in an exciting time where discoveries and inventions are occurring faster than a person can keep track of. In the future, you will be using science & technology in ways you or I cannot imagine. We are now in what is called the age of information making the spread of information instantaneous and planet-wide. Emerging uses of science and technology such as the internet, biotechnology, genetic engineering, spaceflight, and nanotechnology is creating future possibilities both positive and negative that are difficult to predict. I hope this class will allow you to develop the interests, skills, knowledge and critical thinking needed in today’s and tomorrow’s world.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The course content covers the topics of physics, matter, chemistry and astronomy. Students are expected to use inquiry based/hands-on approach to mastering science concepts and incorporate cooperative strategies that promote collaborative learning. Students will conduct scientific investigations to test a variety of hypotheses. Students will write lab reports to describe, summarize and make meaning of new scientific concepts.

1 What will I need for this class?

 3-Ring Binder  Graph paper, pens, pencils and loose-leaf paper.  Plastic Pocket holder (to hold your pencils/pens, erasers, etc)  Pack of index cards.

Behavioral Expectations  Quietly enter the classroom  Be in their seats when the bell rings with necessary materials each day  No writing on desks or leaving trash on the floor  Respect the property of the school and others  Keep cell phones OFF and stored safely away  Remain seated unless otherwise directed  No chewing gum in class  No eating or drinking in the classroom  Put supplies back and clean-up

Typical Day & Procedures

Generally, a class might consist of me explaining a few key-concepts in the beginning, and then students might break-off into pairs or lab teams. They will be expected to remain focused, on-task and help others at all times. Then we will regroup and discuss your discoveries or questions that you may have. However, the format of this class is always open to modification.

Lab Teams

Students will be assigned to lab teams. During group activities or labs you will work in these teams. Students are expected to cooperate and work together. Each lab team will be responsible for putting equipment & materials back and cleaning up. Labs are to be collected at the beginning of the period that they are due. Late labs start at 80%. After I grade and hand back a lab, all unfinished and uncollected labs will be given 0%.

2 Test &Quizzes

During tests and quizzes students should show respect to others by not disturbing others. I am sure that you have been in a situation where you are trying to concentrate but someone is talking or tapping a pencil.

Grading Scale

90-100% =A, 80-89%=B, 70-79%=C, 60-69%=D, 0-59% = F. U’s are given in work habits for two tardies, and or two missing assignments per 5 week grading period.

MAKE-UP WORK Students have 1 make-up day for each absence without penalty. Late work will be penalized 2 full grades. Late work is not accepted the last 5 weeks of each semester. (fall & spring)

INTEGRITY is knowing the difference between right and wrong then choosing the right decision. Cheating is not allowed and may result in a failing grade, “U” in work habits, parent notification, suspension and exclusion from school activities including graduation. Cheating consist of copying or allowing to be copied on any assignment, using unauthorized aids on quizzes, tests or exams, giving or receiving help on a test and plagiarizing or forging any school document.

Conclusion

You will learn a lot in this class; from how to read the periodic table, designing & building a roller coaster, chemical reactions, and how to create an unbreakable egg. It will be a lot of work, but hopefully a lot of fun along the way.

Sincerely, Mrs. Ramirez [email protected]

I have read the course expectations and rules for Mrs. Ramirez’s class. Parents, please print information clearly, thank you.

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