Ms. Pound's Webpage

8th Grade Science

Course Introduction

This year-long course will explore three areas of science under the theme of "Understanding Planet Earth". In physics, we take a look at forces, especially earth’s gravitational force and its effect on motion. Our chemistry unit involves exploring the atom and matter, and how matter can undergo changes here on earth. We end the year with astronomy where we look at earth’s place in the universe and explore the greatest discoveries of the century.

These areas will be studied through a variety of instructional strategies, such as hands-on activities, cooperative learning groups, laboratory work, and individual and group projects.

Grades

A point system is used to determine your letter grade. Points are earned on your notebook, homework, class work, lab work, projects, quizzes, and tests. All your work is to be your own and in your own words whether it is homework or a major project. While you may work with other students, the final product is to be your own. Copying the work of others or cheating in tests will not be accepted and will result in a zero on that assignment. There will also be a participation grade (2 points/day) that includes doing bellwork (see over page), classroom behavior, tardies, detentions, etc.

Homework

You will receive a Weekly Work (W-2) form on the first day we meet each week. This outlines the topics and the homework for that week. The W-2 will be due the last day that I see you in class each week. Homework must be done by the day it is due and must not be done in class. This form requires a parent/guardian signature. Homework may be assigned during the week also and will be due for the next class. This year though about six weeks in the W-2 will stop and I will give you the homework at the beginning of the week. If I feel it is needed to give out written homework I will send a W-2 home.

Late Work

Assignments that are one day late will be accepted for half credit. Please make an effort to get work in on time. If you are absent, please see me at TEAM, on the first day you are back, for an acceptable due date. Also check with other students in your class.

Absences

If you were absent on the first day of the week, be sure to pick up the new W-2 form (or homework) and any appropriate handouts. Check the file for any papers you missed while absent. Ask your study buddy what you missed, and see me at TEAM.

Bell work

Every day there will be work for you to do when you enter the class. You are expected to be in your seat, with your materials out working when the bell rings. The bell work may relate to the work we are covering in class, be a question about you, or a problem to solve.

Class Policies

1. Be respectful of others
2. Participate. All input is valued, and everyone takes a turn at speaking.
3. Be on time and in your seat when the bell rings. If you are tardy, you owe me time at TEAM
4. Come prepared. Have pens, pencils, notebook ready
5. NO food, drink, or gum in class except with the teacher’s permission.
6. No hats to be worn in class.

Science Notebook

This is where most of your daily work will be done. It is important that you follow these guidelines to insure successful work: You will also get a more detailed sheet outlining how you will use your notebook. Your notebook will be graded completely each quarter, but also includes spot checks.
- Name and period in the front of the book.
- Appropriate title and date for each entry.
- Neatness and good spacing of material. Leave 2-3 spaces between days.
- Rulers used for data tables, charts, labeling etc.
- Complete sentences unless otherwise designated.
- All work is in order by date.

Study Buddies

We have a study buddies who you should call to find out about any work you have missed in the case of an absence.

Extra Credit

I will periodically give Extra Credit out. It will be worth anything from a few points to a lot of points. I will decide how many points its worth. Extra credit will not be put on assignments; it will be put directly into your grade.