Course Syllabus 2021-22
8th Grade Earth Science
Mrs. Laub
llaub@amherst.k12.va.us
Course Description:
Earth Science is the branch of science that deals with studies regarding the processes and characteristics about earth and space. The major principles of Earth Science include astronomy, meteorology, geology, and oceanography. We will take a comprehensive view of the earth by studying things such as the rock cycle, map reading, the composition of the earth, volcanic activity, earthquakes, climate and weather, and much, much more.
Course Objectives:
Students will learn how to make good observations, take accurate notes, and develop organizational and analytical skills that will prepare them for higher-level science classes. Students will also investigate and understand the following topics:
o Scientific Investigations: ES.1-ES.14
o Minerals and Rocks: ES.2, ES.3, ES.5, ES.6, ES.7
o Weathering, Erosion, Deposition: ES.2, ES.9, ES.8
o Plate Tectonics (Volcanoes, Earthquakes): ES.2, ES.3, ES.4, ES.8, ES.11
o Historical Geology: ES.2, ES.10
o Meteorology/Climatology: ES.2, ES.3, ES.4, ES.12, ES.13
o Oceanography: ES.2, ES.3, ES.4, ES.11, ES.13
o Environmental Issues: ES.5, ES.7, ES.9, ES.11, ES.12
o Astronomy: ES.2, ES.3, ES.4, ES.14
Materials: All students are required to bring the following materials to class EACH day.
3-ring binder Pencils/pens Notebook paper Dividers
Grading Policy:
o 30% Tests and Projects
o 25% Quizzes
o 20% Classwork (worksheets, notebook check, lab write-ups)
o 10% Homework
o 15% 9 week assessment
Grading Procedures:
Test/Quizzes: Test will be given at the end of each chapter. Quizzes may be announced or unannounced (pop quizzes) and will cover recent material that has been discussed in class, performed in lab work or Google Classroom.
Class work: Class work consists of lab reports, notes, vocabulary, worksheets and any other material covered during a class period.
Homework: Students will have homework everyday. Daily homework consists of the student reviewing the chapter sections that were discussed and any assignments posted on Google Classroom.
Google Classroom: This year we will be piloting Google Classroom in Earth Science. Google Classroom is a free and secure learning network for teachers, students, and schools. It provides a safe way for us to connect, share content, access homework, participate in discussions and receive class information.
Google Classroom is accessible online and through any mobile device with Internet capabilities-including free apps for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android devices. Students can access their account from any mobile device or computer. This tool will be used strictly for educational purposes. Students will complete their homework through Google Classroom. The majority of the homework posted on Google Classroom is video lessons. Students will watch the video lessons at home and receive homework credit. Class time is used for direct practice and application of the topics. I will still have traditional classroom setting of notetaking; however, Google Classroom will allow us to do more scientific inquiry which is very important in all science classes.
Canvas: Please have your child log-on to my Canvas course to see homework assignments and notes.
Notebook: Students are expected to maintain a science notebook. In their notebooks, students will be responsible for defining key terms, copying and answering chapter notes, and study guides. Other items may be included in their notebook at the discretion of the teacher.
Projects: There are projects assigned for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd nine weeks. Projects may include research projects, posters, presentations, current event assignments, etc.
Grading Scale: The grading scale established in your student handbook will be followed.
Late Work, Attendance and Make-Up Work:
● All assignments should be turned in on time. Homework/Classwork assignments turned in late will be penalized. If you have special circumstances that may impact your deadlines, please see me as soon as possible for special arrangements.
● It is the student’s responsibility to get missed assignments when they are absent from class. Each student shall write down what happens in class every day in their agenda book/planner. This includes any work and when it is due. In the event of an absence, the student should see me quickly to obtain missed work. The school’s website can also be checked as daily assignments will be posted there. The student can pick up any assignments that were missed and turn in assignments that may have been due on the day that was missed.
Honor code policy:
It is important for every student to learn the Earth Science SOL content and to think critically, therefore, cheating will not be tolerated! Cheating includes: copying the work of another student, allowing another student to copy your work, or submitting the work of another person as your own work. It is also considered cheating to submit your lab partners work if you did not collaborate in the entire lab process. School policy will be followed in dealing with the offense. Students who are help accountable for cheating on ANY assignment may be allowed to make up the original assignment by completing alternative assignments of my choice.
General Procedures:
Come to class prepared. Remember your pencil, eraser, and binder with loose-leaf paper. You cannot do your job each day if you come to work without your tools! When you come into the room, be in your assigned seat when the bell rings. Be ready to work; I will be ready to teach!
Be respectful. Do not talk while the teacher or another student is talking. Please raise your hand and wait to be recognized if you have a question. Follow the teacher's directions. Learning can only take place if you are paying attention. Also, keep the classroom and your desk area clean. This is especially important during laboratory experiments.
Conferences/Help Session:
Students’ wishing to discuss their grade or get extra help need to contact the teacher as soon as possible. Parents are welcome to call me at school or send an e-mail. I want all of my students to succeed, so I will do what I can to help them be successful.
Teacher Planning: 4th and 7th period
Expectations and Procedures:
▪ Bring a positive attitude
▪ Believe that you can and WILL be successful in this class.
▪ Follow all laboratory safety rules
▪ Students will sit in their assigned seats every day.
▪ Learning can only take place if you are paying attention. Please do not pass notes or do assignments for other classes.
RULES TO RESPECT
1. RESPECT STUDENTS’ RIGHT TO LEARN
▪ Be seated in class before the last bell rings
▪ Have all needed materials ready to use
▪ Ask questions when you do not understand
▪ Stay awake and alert at all times
2. RESPECT TEACHERS’ RIGHT TO TEACH
▪ Wait for permission to speak
▪ Listen and follow all instructions given
▪ Give full attention to instruction at all times
3. RESPECT SCHOOL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY
▪ Keep the room clean at all times
▪ Make sure to keep your hands, feet, and objects to yourself
▪ Food and drink permitted in the cafeteria only
▪ Follow all school rules and procedures
4. RESPECT STUDENTS’ RIGHT TO FEEL SAFE
▪ Absolutely NO physical harm
▪ Absolutely NO put-downs
▪ Absolutely NO inappropriate language
5. RESPECT STUDENTS’ RIGHT TO USE AGENDA
▪ Document all homework assignments
▪ Keep with you at all times
I am looking forward to having you in my class this year. There will be a lot of exciting and interesting things to learn about.
Sincerely,
Lisa Laub
llaub@amherst.k12.va.us
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