This will be an exciting year in every eighth graders growth and development.  I am looking forward to getting to know you and working with your family to make this a productive and enjoyable year.

We know that every day is important and every minute counts.  I believe that there is no limit to learning and I will do my very best to help every student work up to your fullest potential.  I view challenge as opportunity and I hope to help students work toward individual growth for personal success.  I look forward to helping you in any way possible. 

Eighth grade science is a comprehensive collection of hands-on activities, classwork, text completion, writing, and projects.  This class will help you explore and apply scientific concepts to enrich problem solving, comprehension,  and critical thinking skills.  

Here is an overview of some of the experiences that every student will encounter in eighth grade Science!  

The 8th  grade science curriculum  concentrates on Nature of Science, Earth Science,  Life Science, and Physical Science.  

• Fusion- (textbook and online)

• Canvas- Learning Platform 

AMS- Vision Statement: Excellence, Every Student, Every Day

AMS- Mission Statement:  Educate, Empower, and Energize our students to Engage in their individual Excellence.

Class Mission Statement:  All eighth grade students will make responsible choices that lead to success in organizing, interpreting, communicating, demonstrating, and exploring science concepts as we practice the 3 R’s (Respectful, Responsible, Resilient).

Science Folders- (green)  Students will keep a running record of their work in their folders.  Classwork will include weekly assignments, notes, guided assignments, and daily practice.  Students will have plenty of time to complete assignments during class.  There will be very little homework assigned.  However, students are always encouraged to complete unfinished work outside of class if they need extra time or study vocabulary for upcoming quizzes. 

Genesis Question-  Every day we will start with a Genesis Question that will be turned in at the end of the week.  When students enter class it is expected that they look for the directions provided on the front screen (Canvas) and record their answer on their  "Genesis- record sheet".  This will be scored accordingly.  

Classwork-  Students will check Canvas for weekly assignments.  Assignments may be completed during class and outside of class if students need extra time.  Most classwork will include vocabulary tasks, reading/ notes, book work, labs, and general daily tasks.  These may be scored accordingly.  

Common Formative Assessments (CFA’s)-   These will be given monthly and are not graded.  CFA’s will be used to track student growth, target areas for intervention, or provide enrichment opportunities.

Quizzes- (Bi-Weekly- every other week)-  The quiz will be graded and entered into Canvas/ Progress Book.   If students would like to retake the quiz for a better score, they will need to complete the extra practice assignments and turn in for approval or extra intervention.  Students will need to make arrangements to retake the quiz before school, during their lunch period, or after school.   

Tests-  We will have comprehensive tests after each unit.  We will have at least two every grading period (Interim/ End of grading period).  Unit tests are designed to gauge learning and provide each student with information for overall performance that are in alignment with the Ohio State 8th Grade Science Standards.  At the end of this year, students will take the 8th Grade Science Achievement test.  All test unit tests will lead up to the end of year assessment and build upon past science skills. 

Absence-  Students will have an extra day for every day that they missed to make up classwork.  Please remember to check Canvas to keep up to date with missing or late assignments.  

PBIS-Behavior Expectations-  Students are expected to follow directions, listen & speak respectfully, show self-control, cooperate with others, and show kindness.  Students may earn 3 points per day for demonstrating respectful, responsible, and resilient behavior.  Points may earn prizes, class raffles, incentives, or free time.  

Class Rules\Expectations:  

1. Respect everyone and the building.

2. Speak when you have permission and make eye contact.

3. Walk in the building, be seated upon arrival, and get ready to start class.

4. Do your work and stay on task.

5. Be prepared, take care of your belongings, and stay organized.

6. Return class materials.

School Behavior Plan:

Teachers will send a behavioral notification to the assistant principal for every occurrence listed below. 

1.  Verbal Warning

2.  Teacher Enforced Logical Consequence 

3.  Lunch Detention + Parent Contact

4.  Meeting with Teacher, Student, and Parent

5. Referral to Administration 

As we move through the year, please feel free to let me know if you have something special to share relating to what we are studying.  I believe that home/school interaction is needed in order to help each child succeed.  Your participation and encouragement will be greatly appreciated!!!

Mission Statement:

My goal is to help inspire a community of learners that will make responsible choices that lead to success in organization, communication, demonstration, and designing science concepts as we practice the 3 R’s (Ready, Responsible, Respectful).