Syllabus for: Science 8^th Grade: Physical Science

Ms. Sulzbach

psulzbach@sandi.net 479-7111x4405

This is a class that allows us to explore physics and chemistry with a unified approach. We will be learning a consistent vocabulary and method of analysis of the physical world.

We will be covering the California Science Standards for the 8^th grade:

Plan and Conduct Scientific Investigation Lunar Phases and Eclipses

Predictions Motion of Matter Solar System

Evaluate Data Matter

Interpret Data Fluid Dynamics

Develop Quantitative Statements Stars, Galaxies, Universe

Forces and Motion Changes in Matter

Work and Machines Elements and the Periodic Table

Buoyant forces Chemical Reactions

Density Calculations Carbon’s Central Role

Motions of the Moon and Earth Organism’s Chemical Composition

Living Molecules

Please make sure your child has and brings everyday to class:

1. Black or blue pen (no credit for work in other colors), pencil

2. Calculator

3. Ruler (a small one will be given as part of the planner)

4. Composition book (A bound notebook, not spiral, from which pages cannot be removed. It would be ideal if the pages could be like graph paper.)

My expectations for your child:

1. Bring materials and an inquisitive mind everyday (A good nights sleep helps.)

2. Be attentive and on task during the class period.

3. Follow the Science Notebook Format (His/her notebook may be used on quizzes and tests.)

4. Contribute to and learn from group and class discussions

5. Ask questions! This includes taking the initiative to come in for help and to do retests in a timely manner.

6. Develop strong study habits by doing quality work.

Grading criteria to ensure understanding of the 8^th grade California science standards:

1. Tests 60%

2. Quizzes 10%

3. Work 30%

There are no extra credit assignments. If your child consistently works to his/her best ability, he/she will get the grade he/she deserves. Your child may re-do a test after school on one of the scheduled retest days. Quizzes and work may not be redone.

Notebooks will be graded on two criteria:

1. Proper Notebook Format followed, including activity numbering, date, title, procedure summary, data in charts with neatly drawn lines, complete and correct answers for selected questions checked on a random basis. If the notebook or question is not available that day a zero will be entered and cannot be made up.

2. Percent of checkable items checked. If your child is absent, he/she is expected to work with his/her group or check my example book to catch up. Then your child must show me the completed work so a check may be given. One day per each day of cleared absence is given.

The meaning of “Letter Grades” and Rubric Grades are:

Letter Rubric % Means State

A 4 95 Excellent, great understanding and makes connections Advanced

B 3 85 Good, full understanding Proficient

C 2 75 Satisfactory, understands basics Basic

1 60 Unsatisfactory, poor attempt Below Basic

F 0 40 Unsatisfactory, no attempt Far Below Basic

The Grading scale is:

A+ – 97% B+ – 87% C+ – 77% F – 0%

A _ 93% B – 83% C – 70%

A- – 90% B- – 80% C- – 60%

Please notice that there are no “D’s”, There is no point in the student passing without performing satisfactorily.

Citizenship:

The Citizenship Mark is based on a student’s behavior, timeliness, focus and effort in class. Effort correlates with participating in class, asking questions, coming in for tutoring and retesting. The two basic rules are 1) Manage Yourself and 2) Respect. We need the classroom to be a pleasant place for learning. The Bell School rules apply for tardiness, dress, vandalism (no permanent markers are to be in school), cell phones off and out of sight, no electronic gear. Markers will be taken; cell phones and electronics will be confiscated, sent to an administrator to be picked up by a parent.

Class Discipline Contract:

There are awards for positive behaviors and consequences for poor choices, both individually and for the class. Awards can include praise, notes home, improved grades. Consequences can include time after class (not more than 40 seconds), 10 to 20 minutes detention after school (that day or the next day, your child must inform you.)

Copy of the Textbook: http://cipskids.sdsu.edu/cipskids Username: cipskids Password: awesome

Please email me: fewer mistakes will occur if I can capture your address

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Student Name (Print) __________________________________

“Parent” (Print) _________________________________ (Sign) ______________________________

Parent Email _________________________ Best phone number _______________________________

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