7th Grade Life Science
Morris Area High School

Teacher: Joseph Ferriero, Ed.D.

Room: 142

E-Mail: jferriero@morris.k12.mn.us

Webpage: https://sites.google.com/morris.k12.mn.us/ferriero

Classroom: We will use Google Classroom (I will provide you a code) and this website. 

Description: Seventh-grade Life Science provides students with an opportunity to develop scientific process skills. Students will engage in “hands on” and a student-centered approach to learning science.  The course focuses on the study of life and life processes. It allows the students to develop concepts in life science and critical thinking through observation and experimentation. Throughout the year students will explore life science as a process, chemistry related to living organisms, cell structures and functions, genetics and heredity, evolution, diversity of living organisms and their ecological roles, and an introduction to animal structure and function. This course will challenge students to read daily, write about what they read, analyze and interpret data, and research a variety of concepts. 

Materials: Students will need the following for each class session -

• • • • • Science Folder

        • Science Notebook

        • Textbook

        • Pen/Pencil

        • Colored Pencils or Crayons or Markers

        • Chromebook

Grading:

• Daily Work - 15%

• Quizzes - 15%

• Tests - 30%

• Projects/Laboratory Work - 40%

Missing Class/Make-Up Work: Please consult the student handbook for detailed information.  It is my policy that all students have the ability to make up work if they miss class for any reason.  I know that "life happens".  Having said that, please keep in mind that upon your return it is YOUR responsibility to ask me about any work that was missed at an appropriate time. You must make appropriate arrangements to make up tests or quizzes. I WILL NOT remind you that you are missing work. All work MUST be completed by the end of each quarter.

Extra Credit: I do not offer extra credit. Extra work isn't needed to be a great science student.

Collaboration and Academic Integrity: Collaboration and academic integrity are essential aspects of a successful learning environment. In this class, we value both individual effort and teamwork while upholding the principles of honesty, originality, and fairness. The guidelines outlined below will help ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to learn and demonstrate their knowledge:

Collaboration:

• • Collaboration is encouraged and can enhance the learning experience.

  • Group work and discussions are important for fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

  • However, individual understanding and effort are equally important. Each student should contribute their fair share to group activities.

Academic Integrity:

• • Academic integrity means being honest, trustworthy, and respectful of others' work.

  • Plagiarism, cheating, and any form of academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited.

  • All work submitted must be the student's own, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

  • Properly cite and credit any sources used in assignments or research.

Originality:

• • Students are expected to produce original work that reflects their own understanding and ideas.

  • Copying or using someone else's work, including online content, without permission or proper attribution is not allowed.

  • This includes but is not limited to written assignments, projects, presentations, and lab reports.

Citations and References:

• • When using external sources such as books, websites, or articles, proper citations and references must be provided.

  • Use an appropriate citation style (e.g., MLA, APA) as instructed by the teacher.

  • Plagiarism detection tools may be used to ensure academic honesty.

Consequences of Academic Dishonesty:

• • Violations of academic integrity will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary actions.

  • Consequences can include but are not limited to loss of credit for the assignment, academic probation, or parent-teacher/administrator involvement.

  • Repeat offenses may lead to more severe penalties.

Remember, academic integrity is not only crucial for fair evaluation but also for personal growth and ethical development. If you have any questions or concerns regarding collaboration or academic integrity, please don't hesitate to reach out to the teacher for clarification.

Topics Covered:

• Matter and Energy Flow in an Ecosystem

  • Photosynthesis/Respiration

  • Food Chain/Web

  • Ecosystem Cycles (water, nitrogen, etc.)

• Ecosystems

  • Resources in Ecosystems

  • Changing Ecosystems

  • Biodiversity in Ecosystems

• Life Structure & Function

  • Cell Structure & Function

  • Body Systems

• Reproduction of Organisms

  • Types of Reproduction

  • Genetics

  • Plant Reproduction & Growth

• Natural Selection

  • Genetic Changes

  • Artificial Selection

  • Evolution