6th Grade Science Expectations

Welcome to 6th grade science! My goal for each of you this year is to become observant, confident, and independent thinkers in the world of science. We explore a plethora of subjects from cells to elements to several of the many different systems that make up our bodies.

Academic Expectations

1)Come ready to learn

  • Keep an open mind. Science can be intimidating, but if reservations are eliminated it will make this class fun and exciting!
  • Be hands on and actively participating in class discussions.
  • ASK QUESTIONS!
  • Come prepared to class.
  • Pencil
  • Science 3-ring binder (1 ½” or 2” will do) or a separate section in large 5 subject binder with the following items:
  • Science notebook
  • Science folder
  • Assignment notebook
  • Homework (if needed for that day)
  • Come prepared on lab activity days. These days will be announced in advance. This includes, close-toed shoes, hair pulled back, goggles on at all times. More information to follow along with a contract that will need to be signed.

2) Homework

Homework is an extension of the class, allows students to show understanding, and also is preparation for the quizzes and tests. Homework will usually be given Monday through Thursday. Homework is always due the next day. Completed homework that is on time earns a grade of 100. Incomplete homework can be turned in the next day for ten less points (90%). Ten points will continue to be docked until the homework is turned in. No homework will be accepted after four days, resulting in a 0 in the gradebook. It is up to the student to show me the late homework in order to receive their points. If absent, the student needs to obtain the work that was missed and complete it as defined by the teacher for credit.

3) Assessments

Quizzes are usually announced, but there will be times when they are unannounced. Quizzes are used to assess understanding of the material and hold students accountable for the material they are learning.

Tests are completed during class and may also be given as “take-home”. They will be announced in advance. Tests will cover material from class, notes, homework, the text, labs, and handouts. Tests will have a variety of question types in order for students to show me that truly have learned the material. There will be one to two tests per trimester.

Projects will be given during the year. There may be one or two per trimester. Projects come in many forms, including but not limited to large-scale illustrations, models, etc.

Labsand Activitieswill be done as often as possible. Some will be written up formally for a grade, others I may just ask for pieces of the lab write-up. If behavior becomes a safety threat, you will be removed from the lab and given a 0 for the grade. The lab will be made up after school.

4) Grades

Your trimester grade will be calculated as follows: 40% of the tests, 25% of the quiz grade average, 20% of the projects/lab grade average and 15% of the homework grade average.

5) Extra help

Please do not hesitate to come see me for extra help. A&E is a great time to come see me. You may also arrange to meet with me in the morning or afternoon. There will be morning study sessions prior to all assessments beginning at 7:20 am.

6) I expect my students to have respectand integrity for the classroom, themselves, and their work.

  • Cheating or work not your own will not be tolerated.
  • There is a great deal of equipment in this classroom that I expect to be treated carefully and responsibly.
  • Lab reports should be of your own words and opinions. Draw your own conclusions and support them

7) SAFETY!

  • Be safe—See safety guidelines and safety contract as well.
  • All materials, ie binders, books, etc, must be stored in the rack underneath your seat. Materials should not be strewn across the floor or on your lab bench or on the counters where the sinks are located.
  • Sit flat in your seats—no leaning, knees on the seat, etc. This becomes a safety hazard to you or your classmates.

Parent and student please sign below as an indication that you have read and understand these expectations and responsibilities. I am looking forward to the school year ahead!

Mr. Daniel Driscoll,

Student signature______

Parent/Guardian Signature______

THIS NEEDS TO BE KEPT IN YOUR SCIENCE FOLDER ALL YEAR