Michelle Jackson

Dear Parents/Guardians and Students,

OVERVIEW

The sixth grade science program will engage students in science and engineering practices, while using disciplinary core ideas in Earth Science, Chemistry and Physics. The ultimate goal will be for students to develop analytical thinking skills and be able to formulate explanations for the phenomena we observe in the natural world and by using deductive reasoning skills; evaluate, investigate, interpret and construct explanations to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the core ideas. This approach acknowledges the inquisitive and sophisticated thinking capabilities possessed by students, and will provide them with opportunities to learn by acting as scientists and engineers.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS

Students are expected to bring their textbook, chrome book, notebook, ten-pocket and a positive attitude daily.Being that we are in a one-to-one digital world, students must make sure to have their chrome books charged every day.

Students should organize and be responsible for any files or paperwork handed out in class. Additionally, a google classroom containing many resources is provided and students are encouraged to utilize this resource when necessary. Finally, all students are expected to build teamwork skills, as group interactions are an essential component of science education and beyond.  We have high expectations for EVERY student, and we are looking forward to helping EVERY student meet those expectations.

GRADES

The grades will be achieved through use of a point system, where a percentage is calculated by dividing the number of points earned by the total number of possible points. The computer grading program will then perform the necessary calculations to determine the overall grade. It is important for both parents/guardians and students to understand that students are ultimately responsible for their grades; the grades earned are based on clearly articulated expectations and reflect what the students have provided based on these expectations.  When/if there are concerns about grades, the question that should be asked is not,“What grade did the teacher give you?” but “What grade did you earn?” Students are encouraged to come to us for clarification regarding grades if necessary. We are always more than happy to sit down with students to address any questions or concerns they may have.  Students are encouraged to check their grades online often!!!!!!

ASSESSMENTS

Students will typically encounter assessments, in the form of quizzes or tests, after collaborative tasks.  These assessments will be based on information and experiences encountered while engaging in the lesson tasks.  The assessment formats may include: multiple choice, matching, fill-in-the-blank, true/false, short answer, and open response questions.  Assessments will require students to not only have a general understanding of the tasks and information gathered after working through them, but they will also require them to generalize what they learn to novel situations/scenarios. To prepare for these assessments students may be asked to use some method of study(other than simply looking over notes taken in class or from the computer).  It is very important for students to understand that their success on assessments is contingent on them being engaged in all collaborative tasks.  

ALTERNATIVE  ASSESSMENTS

Alternative assessments such as group tasks and a variety of other long-term assignments will be given throughout the year.  These alternative assessments will help students better understand concepts and give them the opportunity to apply their understanding of these concepts.  Additionally, these assignments will enable students to cooperatively solve a problem, which means student teams/groups will be necessary. These groups may be assigned or chosen by the students, but whenever students work with others of their choice, careful thought and consideration must go into choosing partners because the final product results in a group grade.

HOMEWORK

Students can anticipate receiving written homework assignments multiple times a week. Additionally, a small block of time should be set aside every night to review and study material to help the students prepare for assessments and daily activities. Homework is to be handed in on time and complete.  If an assignment is not completed the day it is due, then the student has one more day to turn in the work.  After the first day the maximum allowable grade percentage is 70%; the assignment is graded from there. After the second day, if work is still not completed, the subsequent grade will be a zero.

Sincerely,

Michelle Jackson

6th Grade Pegasus Science