Syllabus

Earth and Space Science

Instructor: Patrick Getchis

2010-2011

Dear Students/Parents,

            Welcome to Earth and Space Science!  I hope you had a fun and safe summer.  This year we will explore a variety of interesting topics together.  Hopefully, we can discover new things about our world and the universe that surrounds it.  I am excited to get to know all of you.  Students learn in different ways so I’ll do my best to accommodate for your individual needs.  My goal is actively practice the act of science through field trips and hands-on labs/activities.  Everyone has the potential to succeed in this class.  In order to succeed one must work hard, ask questions, and attend class regularly.  So get ready for a year of experiment filled, fun science.

Good Luck,

Mr. Getchis

 Topics Covered:

Contact Information:

If you have any questions feel free to contact me.  Increased communication with parents helps greatly. 

·        Email: getchisp@nwasco.k12.or.us

·        Phone: (541) 506-3449 xt 2216

·        Visit: room 2216

·        https://sites.google.com/a/nwasco.k12.or.us/getchis/

Organization:

Many students struggle with organization.  In fact, it often determines whether or not one succeeds in class.  The following items are required to ensure you stay as organized as possible. 

______3-ring binder- ½ inch size will suffice

______1 colored tab/sheet for a 3-ring binder

______100 pages of lined paper

*If you have trouble getting supplies, please talk to Mr. Getchis

            You will be given a hanging folder for storage in the classroom.  You will file labs, assignments, and warm-ups from past units here.  This folder will serve as a portfolio for conferences/student progress.  Please bring your binder and book everyday to class. 

Hall Passes:

Each student receives 4 hall passes/quarter.  They must be filled out with the date, time, and the teacher’s signature.  Mr Getchis will reward students with extra credit for each pass they don’t use at the end of each quarter.

Website:

            My website is listed below.  Please bookmark this on your home computer as it will be necessary for your success.  My daily calendar is uploaded for each class with details about in-class activities.  If absent, please consult the website and discuss specifics with Mr. Getchis.  The website may also be accessed from the high school’s website under the staff section.

https://sites.google.com/a/nwasco.k12.or.us/getchis/

 

Grading:

            This year I am piloting a new grading system called “Grading by Proficiency”.  I spent all summer outlining science concepts, breaking down specific skill sets, writing new assessments, and generating engaging labs/projects for students.    Within the proficiency model, the bulk of your grade comes from assessments. 

·        Each concept has a short (formative) assessment, longer test (summative assessment), and all encompassing final. 

·        In order to pass the class, you must get a 70% or better on two of the assessments per concept. 

·        If you do not achieve proficiency (70% or better) for a given concept, you are welcome to retake the assessment for full credit. 

·        Assessment scores between 90%-100% earn the level of mastery.

·         Students who fail to earn proficiency in ALL concepts by the end of the year will receive an “I” in Earth and Space Science.  They will be required to make up this concept(s) the following year for credit. 

My goal is to award you a grade based on your level of achievement and understanding.  You will be given multiple opportunities to learn and master each concept throughout the year.  I’ll do my best to provide multiple forms of assessment and learning activities to cater toward your type of intelligence.  Please understand that this system holds you accountable for your own learning.  Mr. Getchis is here to guide and facilitate along the way, so come to TAT and after school study sessions for extra help.  This year we’ve upgraded to e-school, where students and parents can monitor progress throughout the year.  Please practice logging in and email me with questions/concerns. 

·        80%- Formal assessments- quizzes, tests, alternative assessments

·        20%- Essential skills-daily work, labs, homework

Student Behavior:

Class expectations exist to protect ones right to an education, the health and safety of students, and school/personal property.  They help maintain an effective classroom community.  Please refer to the school-wide SPIRIT expectations attached to this sheet.  Mr. Getchis offers several rewards for students who contribute in a positive way to our classroom community.  Some of these include- SPIRIT Bucks, Student of the Week, Student of the Month, and No tardy Parties.  However, if you choose to violate these expectations, the whole class (including the teacher) suffers. Such choices will not be tolerated.  The following sequence of interventions will be initiated:

1) Student problem solving conference (with Mr. G)

2) Phone call home

3) Detention (after school, or during Friday school)

4) Office Referral

 

I have read and understand the class expectations outlined above. 

 

Student Signature: ________________________  Date____________

 

Parent Signature:   ________________________  Date____________