Science Resources for Parents
Table of Contents
Spring Semester 2021 Updates
We are starting the Tsunami Unit second semester. Learn more about that unit on the sub page of this website titled "Tsunami Unit Lessons."
Students are going to starting a new model tracker for this unit. Keep it updated throughout the unit so you have a summary of what you've learned each lesson. The answer key to the model tracker is now available. Parents will need to log into their account and request access to the document.
For second semester, we will be using a new google classroom. If you are enrolled in my class in skyward, you will be automatically enrolled in google classroom. For each assignment in google classroom, I make a short 5 minute intro and they available on my youtube channel here.
All missing work for semester 1 needs to be turned in Wednesday Jan 27th. Make sure your Mt Everest Unit final assessment (assignment 30) is turned in and your model tracker is complete. Grades will be finalized the first week of Feb.
Getting started Fall 2020
1.Watch the welcome video on the home page of this website.
2. Students should log into google classroom and complete the orientation assignment (can't edit the assignment from this link) due Tuesday, Sept 8th.
3. Parents should request access to the Everest unit storyline. This will give parents an overview of what students are expected to learn after each lesson. If parents want more details about the curriculum I am using, they can also request access to the Everest unit teachers guide (completely optional). More information on the parent resources page of this website.
4. All future assignments are in google classroom. Expect 2 assignments a week. See the RHL Full Remote Schedule below for your zoom time. I will be posting zoom links through calendar invites and on google classroom.
Science Unit Storylines and Teachers Guides for 2020-2021 School Year
An important part of class will be that students maintain a model tracker throughout each unit. The purpose of the model tracker is to summarize each lesson. In addition, the model tracker helps students think about how each individual lesson builds upon what we have learned previously. On the model tracker, students will write what they figured out for each lesson, cite evidence to support their answers to the lesson question, and make a drawing or representation of their thinking. Parents can review their student's model tracker and compare it to the unit storyline. This is a great way to see how your student is progressing though the unit and check for understanding of key concepts. Click the links below and I will grant you access to these documents (for parents only). I also included the teachers guide. This resource is completely optional, but can provide parents more detail into how I will teaching the unit.
September-October: Everest unit (Plate Tectonics and Rock Cycling) storyline and teachers guide (optional)
November- January: Tsunami (Natural Hazards)
February-March: To be determined
April-June: To be determined
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OpenSciEd Curriculum Pilot
I am piloting a new 3 year middle school science curriculum called OpenSciEd. The 2020-21 school year will be year 3 of 3 of the curriculum pilot implementation. This PDF explains the sequence of units for 6-8th grade.
As this is a pilot, your feedback is appreciated, positive or negative. I meet 3 times a year with the curriculum developers and I am happy to pass on what you think is working and how the curriculum could be improved. Use this form to share your feedback.
Here are some resources I am using as guide to adapt this curriculum for remote learning.
Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS) for 8th graders
WCAS Frequently Asked Questions
Practice test from OSPI 5/8/11 grade
Answer key for 5/8/11 grade test
Sample tests from other states that also follow NGSS
Test scores from 18-19 school year
How to Read Next Generation Science Standards
The NGSS are 3-D, integrating...
Science and Engineering Practices (DO)
Disciplinary Core Ideas (KNOW)
Crosscutting Concepts (UNDERSTAND)
General Resources for Middle School Science
OpenSciEd Teacher page:
https://www.openscied.org/openscied/?
Phenomena for NGSS
https://www.ngssphenomena.com/
NGSS Lessons/Curriculum
https://www.nextgenscience.org/resources/examples-quality-ngss-design