Course Syllabus s2

Course Syllabus Earth Science Coach Scarborough St. Martin High School

Course Description:

Earth Science is an introductory, laboratory-based course designed to explore the Earth and Universe. Topics include the composition of the Earth; weathering; plate tectonics; fossils; oceanography; atmospheric phenomena; the water cycle; and planetary and star systems. There will be an emphasis placed on developing the ability to ask questions, to observe, to experiment, to measure, to use computers and calculators, to problem solve/reason, to use tools of science, to gather data, and to communicate findings. The competencies are those elements in the document representing a general concept or performance that is required to be taught to all students by the school district. The competencies for this course provide a general guideline of ongoing instruction, not isolated units, activities or skills.

Competencies:  Describe the elements and compounds related to the composition of the Earth’s crust.  Characterize the different types of mineral deposits.  Describe the basic types of rocks and how they are formed.  Explain the physical and chemical processes of weathering.  Describe the processes involved in shaping the internal and external features of the Earth.  Illustrate the geological timetable.  Explain how the oceans affect other processes on Earth.  Describe the composition of the atmosphere.  Describe the processes involved in weather and climate.  Describe the process of the water cycle.  Describe the structure and gravitational interaction of our planetary system.  Explain the orderly and predictable motion of celestial bodies.  Demonstrate the proper use of scientific methods and investigative techniques. Course Textbook: Modern Earth Science by Holt, Rinehart and Winston

Chapters to be covered: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, part of 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 29 and 30

Course Requirements: Assignments:  Tests/Quizzes  Daily Work/Homework  Reports  Labs  Presentations/Posters  Special projects and Activities

Materials:  Loose-leaf binder notebook  Pen & Pencil  Color pencils

Grading Scale: Weights: A 90-100 Tests count………………30% B 80-89 Labs/Projects……….……25% C 70-79 Homework/Class work…..25% D 60-69 Quizzes…………………..20% F 59 and below

Classroom Rules: 1. Keep your hands, feet and any other object to yourself 2. No talking without permission or any other disruptive behavior 3. Stay in your seat 4. Be in your seat, prepared and ready to work when bell rings 5. Listen to instructions the first time they are given

Extra Credit: Extra-credit points can be gained in this course by the following method. Make a poster for display in the classroom related to the subject being covered in class. The poster must have an original title, three pictures and ten facts about the topic. Neatness is necessary. There is a maximum amount of extra-credit, ask me about it if needed.

Make Up Work: If you miss school, it is your responsibility to get and complete work missed on those days. Ask a classmate or check with me for my assignment folder. If you missed a test, quiz, lab, or class work you must complete the make up within the time frame as per school policy (make an appointment for tests and labs). Beware of the fact that you cannot make up work if you have an unexcused absence.

Parental Contact: If your parents need to contact me, they should call the school (875-8418) and make an appointment or write me an email at this address: [email protected]. My planning period will be during 2nd block.