Water Valley Independent School District

Water Valley Independent School District

7th Grade Science Syllabus

Teacher: Jenny Sims

Campus: Water Valley Junior High School

Course Description: In 7th Grade Science, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving and reasoning skills. Students study a variety of topics that include: interactions that occur between matter and energy, physical and chemical properties and chemical changes of matter, chemical reactions with matter, the relationship among force, motion, and energy, how natural events and human activity can impact Earth’s systems, components of the solar system, the relationship between organisms and the environment, variations and unique traits demonstrated within and among populations, the study of living systems and how they are structurally designed, and how reproduction contributes to genetic diversity.

Grading Procedure: 60% for tests and projects; 40% for class work, homework, and lab assignments

First Semester Material: scientific process skills, photosynthesis and the flow of energy, cycling of matter, force, motion, and work, factors impacting Earth’s systems, components of our solar system, organisms and the environment

Second Semester Material: scientific process skills, structure and function of cells, structure and function of living systems, the cell theory, identification of organic compounds, physical, chemical, and energy changes in digestion, homeostasis, genetics, genetic variation and adaptations

Homework Rules/Missing Work: When homework is assigned, it will be due on the next day or on a date given by the teacher. Points will be deducted for each day late. After three days, the student will receive a zero. Missing work and failing grades will require students to attend tutorials. Students will receive partial credit for missing work that is made up during tutorials.

Tutorials: Tutorials are available every morning from 7:45 – 8:05. Other times can be set up at the student’s request.

Policy for Make-Up Assignments: It is the student’s responsibility to get and complete make-up work. Work will be kept in the make-up folder for each class period. If there is no assignment in the folder, check with your teacher before assuming that you do not have make-up work. The due date will be decided by your teacher.

Materials Needed: 3-ring binder, paper, composition book, pens and pencils, map colors, one box of Kleenex. **Note: There may be other project supplies required and advance notice will be given before these supplies will be needed in class.

Expectations for the Classroom: Be on time and come prepared with supplies, assignments, and all necessary materials. Be respectful to me, your classmates, and the classroom. Work hard and always do your very best! Show up every day with a positive attitude and ready to work!

Conference Period: Sixth Period, 1:10 pm – 1:54 pm

Phone: 325-484-2478 x 202My Email: