Welcome

Hello! Welcome to Ms. Thompson's 7th grade Earth Science. We will be learning about our Dynamic Planet and the many things that occur on Earth including earthquakes, volcanoes, and mountains. We will discover the possible hazards of an earthquake and volcanoes as well as rock content and types of rock formation. This year we will focus on learning about our continents and Pangea and use our creative and critical thinking skills to enhance learning, sharing, collaborating, and participation in the classroom.

Expectations

As a new student entering middle school I will expect for students to complete the Science expectations form and sign along with parents. I have high expectations for my students which include respecting one another, respecting the lab and all property in the lab, remaining safe at all times by using proper safety gear, listening to all instructions before beginning classroom work, showing and treating those who speak with respect, and doing the very best you can in my class. If anybody has any questions or concerns regarding classroom expectations, please feel free to contact me.

Grades

Students in my class with automatically be given an A+. It is the student's responsibility to maintain that A by completing all assignments on time, participating as often as possible, and remaining on task as the majority of points will be generated in the classroom. Lack of participation, incomplete assignments, and working off-task will reflect in the student's performance and grade for each quarter.

Calendar

I will be sure to update the classroom calendar at the beginning of each week to reflect the agenda for the school week as well as assignment due dates and important school dates such as staff development days, holidays, and student progress and report cards.

Participation/Make-up work

Participation is an important part of the student classroom grade. I expect students to engage in classroom debates and conversation, reading, and assignments. If a student is absent, make-up work can be collected and returned for full points if the work is returned by the end of the week. If there are any questions regarding missing assignments or test re-takes please contact me as soon as possible for the maximum amount of points possible.

Classroom Supplies

Students are expected to come to my class prepared. As a note, the following list of supplies will ensure all students come to class with the materials they need to be successful: pencils, lined paper, one spiral notebook per quarter (total of 3), markers, colored pencils, glue, scissors, and tape. I will supply a color box which will consist of colored pencils, markers, glue, scissors, tape, and pens; however, showing up prepared will always assure students are ready on account that a color box may not be available.

School District Calendar

The link to the school district calendar will give all students important dates throughout the 2012-2013 school year.

Parent Involvement

Our school district, as well as myself, encourages parent involvement in student progress and the educational needs of our students. Getting involved with student education is a great way to promote great learning habits, motivation, encouragement, and an increased life-long love of learning. To view the document in regard to parent involvement and how to stay partnered please view the parent involvement link.