Mrs. Giove -TitanAcademy
8th Grade Science
Welcome to the 2009 – 2010 school year! I anticipate that it will be a year full of new learning experiences for all. We will be focusing primarily on the study of physical science. Critical thinking utilizing the Scientific Method will be emphasized. Reading, writing and laboratory assignments will provide exciting opportunities for exploration. My teaching philosophy incorporates high expectations, hands-on/minds-on learning instruction and activities, and relating our learning to our lives.
Textbook: Prentice Hall – Physical Science
The content will include the study of motion, forces, energy, density, buoyancy, matter, chemical reactions, and the solar system. Each student will have one copy of the textbook for home use which should be kept at home all year. Additionally, there will be a copy of the textbook for each student in class. As these books are brand new, please treat them with great respect.
Materials:
- Spiral notebook, highlighters, colored pencils, scientific calculator, and glue sticks!
Required materials must be brought to class every day. Lab books must be kept organized and neat. No unnecessary writing should be in or on the science lab book.
Rules:
In addition to the TitanAcademy rules-
- Safe behavior in the lab is required at all times. We will be working with a variety of equipment and materials that are to be handled with care. Should you have to be removed form class due to unsafe lab behavior, you may lose your privilege of participating in future labs, for which you will be required to do an alternate assignment and/or a parent meeting to discuss behavior expectations for return to the lab.
- Do not eat or drink anything in class unless you are specifically instructed to do so by the teacher.
- When I call for your attention, you must stop immediately and listen to my instructions.
Grading:
All grades will be calculated in accordance with academy policy. Points can be earned on class work, homework, lab work and write-ups, projects and exams. The best way to ensure a good grade in science grade is to complete all of your assignment consistently with high quality. The following percentages show the components of the course:
70% Quizzes/Exams 30% Interactive Notebook/Learning Activities
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Calendar:
At the beginning of each week all students will be given their homework assignments for the upcoming week. Please check your student’s calendar regularly to watch for upcoming due dates and projects.
Absences:
Most people are absent from time to time. Please try not to miss school unless it is absolutely necessary. The school policy on late work will be enforced. If you miss class, you are to do the following to help you get caught up:
- Check the class calendar on the sidewall for both the class work and homework that was missed. Weekly calendars of class work and homework are posted on SpringViewMiddle School’s Web page for all TitanAcademy teachers. Please take a minute to check the calendar to note any missing work.
- Pick up any handouts that you are missing from the crate at the back of the room. Assignments will be labeled as they are written on the calendar. If you are missing notes, get these from your classmate or see the teacher for assistance.
- Make up your labs and class activities by scheduling an appointment with Mrs. Giove. Appointments can be made for before school, lunch, or after school. Usually you will not be able to make-up labs and many of the activities at home because of the equipment that you will need in order to complete your work. Additionally, I will be available to assist you if you have any questions as you are making up your assignment.
- All work missed during your absence is due no later than one week from the due date. If you have a special circumstance arise, I am always willing to work with you to help you be successful. Missed labs must be made up within 1 week of the original lab date. Make-up lab dates will be posted on the board.
Extra Help:
At times, everyone needs a little extra help. Please see me before or after school with questions that arise. The library and computer lab are open before and after school for use. Additionally, the school will have a homework program available Monday through Thursday to assist students in all academic subjects. Please watch the school news for this exciting program. Additionally, you may email me at with any questions or concerns. I check my email on a regular basis. Students tend to do better when they know others are concerned about their progress. Thank you for the opportunity to work with your child. I anticipate a great year!
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8TH Grade Science
Mrs. Giove
Titan Academy 2009 - 2010
Please sign below that you have read the 8th Grade science syllabus for Mrs. Giove’s class.
Return to Mrs. Giove by August 21, 2009.
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