REGENTS EARTH SCIENCE
Ms. MARYELISA BLUNDELL
GOALS
1. Students will learn how to use the scientific method to become independent problem solvers.
2. Students will become aware and knowledgeable of their environment with the intent to make community members that can make informed decisions.
3. Students will be encouraged to use their curiosity and knowledge to explore current issues and events in the community, in the nation and in the world.
COURSE OUTLINE
2. The Earth in Space 6. The Dynamic Crust
3. The Atmosphere and Climates 7. Earth History
4. Surface Processes and Landscapes 8. Environmental Awareness
STUDENT MATERIALS
Text: Earth Science: Geology, the Environment, and the Universe
Author: Frances Hess Glencoe-McGraw Hill Publishers
Supplies: three ring binder (at least 1 ½ “), looseleaf, pencils, calculator
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
In order to receive Regents credit the student must complete the following:
A. meet the attendance requirement (See Student Handbook)
B. receive a passing grade in the course
C. pass the Regents exam.
Eligibility for the Regents exam is based on completion of the laboratory component, equivalent to the student’s lab folder. Each lab investigation will culminate in a written report using an acceptable format. Each report must receive a satisfactory score of 65% or better to become part of the student’s lab folder. These lab reports must be evaluated by the teacher and in the student’s lab folder before the student enters the Regents in June.
CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
1. Be on time. Remember, if you are late to class three times that will constitute one absence from class.
2. Be prepared. For each class or lab you need your three ring binder, pencil, calculator and any homework or lab sheet pertinent to that class period.
3. Pay attention. Focus on the topic. Talking when the teacher or another student is speaking is rude and inappropriate. If you have something to contribute, please raise your hand.
4. No food or drinks are allowed in the classroom.
5. Hats may not be worn in the classroom. The dress code will be enforced in the classroom.
6. No horseplay in the classroom or with lab equipment will be tolerated. All cell phones and earphones to Ipods, CD players, etc are off and out of sight in the classroom.
7. All school rules are in effect.
8. For all lab activities THINK SAFETY. Review directions in lab handouts in the proper use of equipment and materials. Any misuse of materials or improper behavior that endangers anyone’s safety including their own will not be tolerated.
PARTICIPATION
Attendance in school and class everyday should be a goal for all students. Those who actively participate by answering and asking questions, contributing their experiences and ideas to the class are the individuals who are involved in the learning process. It is expected that all students be engaged in the classroom and laboratory experience as positive contributing members of both large and small group activities.
HOMEWORK ~ LAB REPORTS
Your written work is a reflection of your knowledge and effort. All assignments should represent your best quality work. If handwritten, lab reports and homework assignments should be on looseleaf, legible and in blue or black ink. I encourage all students to use some word processor program and computer of their own or one available at the school to complete their assignments.
If you are absent from school, it is your responsibility to make up all assignments and lab work.
GRADING
Your quarterly grade will be based on 50% of your test average, 30% of your lab average, and 20% of your homework average. Consideration will be given to the quality and level of participation. Lab reports submitted past the due date will receive a maximum grade of 65%.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Each student will receive a progress report according to the Booster schedule.
LAB MAKE-UP ~ EXTRA HELP SESSIONS ~ ACTIVITY PERIOD
Students who miss a lab session are required to make up that class in order to meet the lab requirements for the course. Lab make-up will occur during the activity period in the morning. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the teacher so that the appropriate lab equipment is available.
Students who have missed class due to illness or sectionals should also use the activity period. This period provides the student with an opportunity to review materials, notes and handouts that the student has missed and also be able to ask questions should misunderstandings arise. This is also a period for any student having difficulty in an area to get extra help. Students are strongly encouraged to make appointments to meet with me, or I may schedule an activity period to work with a student if I see that a student is having difficulty in a particular area.
PERSONAL NOTE FROM THE TEACHER
The Earth Sciences are interesting, practical and thought provoking areas of study. You will find throughout the year, events on the local, national and international scene that relate directly to the topics covered in class.
The course of study is demanding and perhaps difficult for some but it has been my experience that students who keep up with the work and master each topic will meet with success. One topic will be the groundwork for the next. You will continuously draw on the knowledge and skills already learned to understand concepts in another Earth Science area. Because of the nature of the course, it is imperative that students experiencing difficulty should seek extra help as soon as possible.
I look forward to working with you and I hope you have a successful year.