7th Grade Science

AMS

7th Grade Science Syllabus
Andover Middle School
2011-2012

Instructor Information:
Mrs. Smith
Room: 707
Phone: 218-4610
Email: smitha@usd385.org

Topics Covered:
1. Cells, Heredity, and Classification
2. Chemistry
3. Forces, Motion, and Energy

Objectives of the course (skills developed):
Students will…
1. demonstrate proper safety procedures.
2. design and conduct simple investigations.
3. use appropriate technology as a tool in problem solving.
4. demonstrate problem-solving skills through the scientific method.
5. generate scientific questions based upon observations.
6. identify and control variables in experiments.
7. interpret the results of experimentation using statistical reasoning.

Grading:
Your semester grades will be comprised of class assignments, labs/projects, and tests and a grade will be issued using the school’s grading scale (90-100% = A; 80-89% = B; 70-79% = C; 60-69% = D; Below 60% = F).  
        Class assignments: The point value for these assignments will vary greatly: usually anywhere from 5-100 points.      Examples of these include: Directed  Reading Guides, notebook, quizzes, vocabulary, etc.
        Labs/Projects: The point value for lab experiments and hands-on projects will vary greatly; usually anywhere from     20-100 points.  Examples of these include: Labs and write ups, models, etc.  
        Tests: The point value for tests will vary; usually around 100 point each.

Classroom Expectations and Procedures:
BE PREPARED, BE RESPONSIBLE, BE RESPECTFUL, AND STAY ON TASK
1. Beginning and Ending Class Procedures- When you enter the classroom, get organized and fill out your agenda with the day’s assignment.  Each class period will begin with a “Question of the Day” and end with a “Wrap Up”.  At the end of class, get organized and remain seated until I dismiss you.  Remember, I start and end class, the bell does not!
2. Tardies- Be seated when the bell rings.  If you are out of your seat when the bell rings, YOU ARE TARDY!  Conduct points will be taken for tardies.  If you walk into class after the bell, you MUST have a pass in order to not be counted tardy.
3. Seat Expectations- Once class has started you are expected to sit in your assigned seat and actively participate.  You are not to be working on other work, reading, or visiting with a neighbor, but instead remain on task.  You are also expected to sit quietly, not talk while I am talking, and raise your hand to be called on before you speak
4. Homework- Most assignments will be done in class, or at least, you will be given time to get started on the assignment.  But, occasionally some work will have to go home.  You are responsible for completing and returning any assignments that are not finished during class.  Assignments are assigned for a reason, for you to learn, if you don’t do them, you’re not learning.  If you have trouble completing an assignment, you should see me before school.   
5. Late work- A due date will be given when work is assigned and if not turned in by the appropriate date it will be considered late.  Late work can be turned in until you have been tested over the material.  
6. Absent work- If you are gone, it will be your responsibility to get the work you missed, including any notes that were taken.  When you return from an absence, go to the Absent Work station at the back of the room and follow the directions listed.  You should be able to find the agenda from when you were absent, collect any handouts that you missed, and calculate the appropriate due dates.  If you have ANY questions, you should ask your neighbor first, then if you still don’t understand, SEE ME!  
7. Cheating- Cheating will not be tolerated and will result in a detention as well as an “F” for that assignment, quiz, test, lab, etc.
8. Materials- BE PREPARED! NO PASSES WILL BE GIVEN!  You should ALWAYS bring your agenda, conduct card, completed assignments, paper, pencil, science notebook, and a library book.  Other materials may be required upon advanced request (look for signs outside my door).  
9. Labs- Lab work and hands-on activities will be done periodically, according to class behavior.  A safety contract must be on file with me before any students will be able to participate in a lab (this is for safety purposes).
10. Classroom Equipment- Students will NOT touch or get into any cabinets, teacher’s desk, or other equipment and materials unless instructed to do so.  The only exception to this is the cabinet labeled “Student Center”.
11. Food and drinks- No food will be permitted in my room.  Water bottles are okay, however they may only be filled with pure water (no flavored or colored water).
12. Cleanliness- You will be held responsible for keeping your area clean.  There will be NO writing, carving, or any kind of destruction to the property.  If you come in and see these types of things, you must report them immediately to me so you won’t be held responsible.  
13. Class information- The weekly agenda will be posted on new.schoolnotes.com as well as on my wiki page http://wonderfulworldofscience.pbworks.com/.  We will also be using Edmodo (www.edmodo.com) for discussions, student collaboration, and turning in of digital assignments.

LAB SAFETY CONTRACT

Science is a hands-on laboratory class. We will be doing lab activities periodically which require use of household chemicals and sensitive equipment. Safety in the science classroom is the #1 priority for students, teachers, and parents. To ensure a safe classroom, a list of rules have been developed and provided for you in this student safety contract. These rules must be followed at all time.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

1. Do not touch ANY equipment, chemicals, or other materials until you are     instructed to do so.
2. Follow all written and verbal instructions carefully. If you do not understand, ASK!
3. Never work in the lab without the teacher present.
4. Be prepared to work by reading all procedures before working in the lab.
5. Work areas should be kept clean and tidy.
6. Know how to use safety equipment and where it is located.
7. Keep hands away from face and wash with soap and water after performing all procedures.
8. Clean, dry, and store all equipment as instructed.
9. Stay in your assigned work area so that you will not interfere with the work of others.

CLOTHING
1. Goggles must be worn when working with chemicals, heat, or glassware.
2. Lab aprons will be provided for use and should be worn to protect clothing if necessary.

ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES
1. Report any accidents to the instructor immediately- NO MATTER HOW MINOR!
2. If a chemical splashes on your skin or in your eyes, flush with running water and inform the instructor immediately.
3. Do not attempt to pick up broken glass. Inform the instructor and I will sweep it up.