8th Grade Physical Science
Classroom Procedures and Requirements
8th Grade Physical Science is the study of the properties of matter and energy and how matter and energy interact. We will also study the physical and chemical properties of the universe.
Unit 1 – The Nature of Science and Physics
Unit 2 – Chemistry
Unit 3 - Astronomy
Email: ljenner@lvusd.org
Blog: www.mrsjennersclass.blogspot.com
Classroom Rules
1. Be on time to class and bring materials and homework
2. Follow lab safety rules
3. Show respect for others and their property
4. No backpacks on the lab tables or lab aisles
5. No electronic devices on in the class unless noted for a lab
Required Materials
1. Sharpened pencils (please have more than one)
2. Spiral Notebook or Composition Book for Science Notes only
3. Notebook paper
4. Calculator (you may not use cell phones or iPods for tests)
5. Ruler for homework
Homework
The purpose of homework is to review vocabulary, practice and think about concepts discussed in class, and to complete labs.
Homework will be assigned about two times per week. Homework assignments will be worth 10 points each. I do accept late homework until the day of the unit/chapter test. One point is deducted for homework turned in one day late. Three points are deducted from the overall score on all other late homework.
Tests and Quizzes
Tests and quizzes will be primarily multiple-choice. Students may make up tests and quizzes if they score below 70%. Makeup test scores will be averaged with the original test score. Makeup tests will be given Friday at lunch.
Students will also take District Common Assessment tests in Physics, Chemistry and Astronomy. There will be no makeup for these tests and district test questions will be worth more than normal classroom test questions.
Labs
Labs and experiments will make up the majority of work in 8th grade science. Some labs will be student designed and others will be teacher directed. I expect safe and controlled behavior in the lab at all times. I will assign lab groups. In labs you should:
- Be focused on the problem and complete work
- Be respectful of group members
- Follow lab safety rules always
- READ and follow directions
Labs will usually be worth 20 or 30 points each depending on the complexity and duration of the lab.
Science Fair
8th grade students participate in science fair in the spring. Projects are due the week before Open House. Projects should be “open-ended” (which means that you don’t know the outcome of the experiment when you start), controlled, and interesting to you.
There may be an opportunity to enter projects in the L.A. County Science Fair. If you are interested in participating, please let me know. It would mean having your topic ready early.
Technology Policy
Photos and recordings are not allowed at school. There are times when you will be able to use electronic devices for calculations and as timers. If you want to use the Internet in class to look up a topic we are discussing, please ask first. No texting, emails, phone calls, etc…
Please sign that you are read and discussed the requirements for 8th grade science. Return this portion to class tomorrow.
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Student Name (Please Print)
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Parent Signature
