7th Grade Life Science
Please click here to access Google Classroom for all information and materials for 7th Grade Science. This will be really helpful when you are absent or feel like you need more review.
7th Grade Science Class Expectations
Boltz Middle School (2023-2024)
Teacher: Ms. Cate Withrow (cwithrow@psdschools.org)
Room: 9B
Welcome Scientists!
(Yes, that means you)
*For this course, we will be using the scientific method to explore life science through real world applications. My goal for this year is to make science fun and personal for each of my students.
GRADING:
*As with all 7th grade classes at Boltz, we will use Standardized grading (0-4) in Science.
4 = Advanced Understanding
3 = Proficient Understanding
2 = Emerging Understanding
1 = Beginning Understanding
I/0 = Incomplete or No Evidence of Understanding (did not turn in)
Summative Assignments (Tests, Projects) 70% of overall grade
Formative Assignments (Quizzes, Notebook checks) 29% of overall grade
Work Habit (Weekly) 1% of overall grade
● WORK HABIT: Daily coursework is a combination of individual and small group work and should be completed during class time. Your work habit grade will be given bi-weekly and will be assessed upon your participation, production and presence. If you pay attention, participate, produce work and do you best you will be given full credit for this portion of your grade. You will have very little homework, work is expected to be done in class with support from your classmates and from me.
● QUIZZES: Notes may be used; some quizzes will be unannounced (stay organized).
● TESTS: Tests will be announced with a least one week’s notice.
● MAKE-UP AND RETAKE TESTS: Retake and make-up tests will be allowed to help students improve their level of understanding. Students will need to communicate with me about their need to retake a test or to do a make-up test and a time will be scheduled within two weeks of the test date.
● PROJECTS: We will have several projects this year. These are BIG assignments and will be counted as a summative piece of a student’s overall grade (rubrics will be provided at the beginning of a project). Projects turned in more than two weeks late will not be accepted.
● SCIENCE NOTEBOOKS: Students will be expected to use their Science Notebooks on a daily basis. I will periodically check notebooks to make sure students are keeping them organized and complete. Notebook grades will fall under Formative Assignments.
7th GRADE CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS:
● Each student is responsible for bringing his/her/their Science Notebook and pencil to every class period. Notes will be able to be used on quizzes.
● Be ready at the beginning of each class session. Students will be counted “tardy” if they need to return to their lockers after class has started.
● Mobile devices will be turned off and put away during class. Please see the student handbook for our school policy on mobile devices.
● Students are responsible for obtaining and completing missed assignments and classwork due to excused absences.
● Cheating is not acceptable and will not help you learn the material.
● Each individual will contribute to create a positive, safe learning environment in which we can all feel free to share our thoughts related to the class topic.
Now for some advice...
● Be aware of your grades.
● Consistency is key to success!
● Stay organized - this will help you on quizzes and tests!
● Ask questions – when something is not clear, speak up and advocate for your learning.
● Learn from each other - share your thoughts and listen to your classmates.
● Be ready for class each day - have your materials, look over the previous day’s notes, etc.
● Be smart and be safe - we sometimes use specialized tools and chemicals in class.
● DO NOT choose failure! Learn from your mistakes and make improvements.
● Everyone can find problems...Find SOLUTIONS!
● Be Kind – to yourself, to your classmates and to your teachers.
● Be Curious – some of the best scientific discoveries happened through curiosity
● Be Respectful
**If you have questions or concerns, please see me or email me right away. I am here to be your advocate, your sounding board and your support.
What is Life Science?
1. From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
Q: How can one explain the ways cells contribute to the function of a living organism?
2. Interactions, Energy and Dynamic Relationships in Ecosystems
Q: How does a system of living and non-living things operate to meet the needs of the organisms in an ecosystem?
3. Heredity: Inheritance and Variation Traits
Q: How do living organisms pass traits from one generation to the next?
4. Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity
Q: How do organisms change over time in response to changes in the environment?