Embedded Files
Marvin A. Dutcher Middle School | Syllabus | Contact: eruiz@turlock.k12.ca.us | Garden Club Interest Form
Dear Parents,
I look forward to working with you and your child to ensure that they receive the best education possible. I am prepared to invest my time and effort to further educate your child to the best of my ability. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions, concerns, or interest in participating. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Mr. Ruiz
Helpful Information and Links
Helpful Information and Links
JOIN: Science 7th Grade Google Classroom, Quizlet, Class Companion
Introduction to Amplify Science (3:11) | How to Navigate Amplify Science (15:39) | Introduction to Amplify Science @Home Videos (1:08) | How to use Aeries (slideshow)
BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT (10:11)
Bathroom Sign-Out and Sign-In Form | Diamondback Daily Dispatch | Bell Schedule / Campus Map
Help keep your local river clean by volunteering: Operation 9-2-99
____________________________________________________
THIRD QUARTER (05 JAN 2026 -13 MAR 2026)
>>> Populations and Resources Unit Review | Sentence Starters | Dictionary | Chat <<<
06 MAR 2026 - Friday
Morning ELPAC testing | Field Trip Opportunity
Make-up or Retake | Unit Review | (#93) PR 2.5 Test "06 PR 2.5 CJA"
Draw a Five-by-Five Food Web: (EXAMPLE) - (Google Draw)
You may use the Internet to help you research consumer and resource populations.
Include the sun.
Include a chain of at least FIVE links long.
Include FIVE organisms branching from the main chain.
Include yourself (humans) on the web.
Include the arrows showing which way the energy flows.
05 MAR 2026 - Thursday
Morning ELPAC testing
Amplify Assignments PR 2.7 | PR 2.7.2-3 Pear Deck | (#95) PR 2.7.1-4
04 MAR 2026 - Wednesday - WIN
Make-up or Retake | Unit Review | (#93) PR 2.5 Test "06 PR 2.5 CJA" (If you can test in a separate setting, go to room 3 now.)
Complete: Amplify Assignments PR 2.6 | Evidence Cards A & B | (#94) PR 2.6.1-3
https://play.blooket.com/play | iReady
03 MAR 2025 - Tuesday
02 MAR 2026 - Monday (Substitute)
Populations and Resources | Unit Review | (#93) PR 2.5 Test "06 PR 2.5 CJA" (This test IS graded) (If you can test in a separate setting, go to room 3 now.)
Matter and Energy in Ecosystems Pre-Test "07 ME 1.1 PRE [AMPLIFY]" (This test is NOT graded)
27 FEB 2026 - Friday
NOTICE: The next test is on Monday, March 2nd: Unit Review
Review Day 1 of 2: PR 2.4.2 Possible Student Response
Day 2 of 2: Amplify Assignments PR 2.4 | PR 2.4.3 Pear Deck | Log in with your Google Account Padlet (Write your name for the Subject.) | (#92) PR 2.4.1-4
Write your written response here (#84) CR 4.3.4 SA, not in Amplify. You get three attempts. It is due today!
26 FEB 2026 - Thursday
NOTICE: The next test is on Monday, March 2nd: Unit Review
Day 1 of 2: Amplify Assignments PR 2.4 Complete all parts of Amplify activities one and two.
Copy, Paste, and then Edit the directions to match what you plan to do:
Press Play, run the Sim for 22 time units, and then press Pause.
Increase/Decrease the Greenleaf/Furbil population that you predicted would increase the number of deaths in the weebug population. (Hint: Make a big change to see the biggest effect. Weebug/Furbil Population: ___)
Lock the Greenleaf/Furbil population.
Press Play and run the Sim for at least 22 more time units.
Press Analyze and use the range window to review the number of deaths during the 22 time unit range just before and during the 22 time unit range after the change. Record the number of weebug deaths in the data table.
25 FEB 2026 - Wednesday - WIN
If absent, make-up assignment (#85) CR 4.4 Test (Retakes are open as well.) Chemical Reactions Unit Review
Write your written response here (#84) CR 4.3.4 SA, not in Amplify. You get three attempts. It is due Friday!
iReady MyPath Math
24 FEB 2025 - Tuesday
23 FEB 2026 - Monday
20 FEB 2026 - Friday
19 FEB 2026 - Thursday
18 FEB 2026 - Wednesday
Amplify Assignments PR 1.3 | PR 1.3.2 Pear Deck and 6 Coin Flip (Heads = Birth, Tails = Death ) | (#87) PR 1.3.1-3
17 FEB 2026 - Tuesday - WIN - (Substitute)
iReady
11 FEB 2026 - Wednesday
Blooket - Populations and Resources
EdPuzzle - Energy Flow and Matter Cycling in Ecosystems
Write your written response here (#84) CR 4.3.4 SA, not in Amplify. Don't forget to click the turn-in button when you are done. You get three attempts. It is due on 2/27/2026.
Populations and Resources PR 1.1 | Pre-Unit Assessment (You must complete this pre-test. However, it is not graded in Aeries)
10 FEB 2026 - Tuesday
09 FEB 2026 - Monday - WIN - (Substitute)
If absent, make-up assignment (#85) CR 4.4 Test (Retakes are open as well.) Chemical Reactions Unit Review
Write your written response here (#84) CR 4.3.4 SA, not in Amplify. Don't forget to click the turn-in button when you are done. You get three attempts. It is due on 2/27/2026.
Populations and Resources PR 1.1 | Pre-Unit Assessment (You must complete this pre-test. However, it is not graded in Aeries)
iReady MyPath Math
06 FEB 2026 - Friday - Rewards Day
(#85) CR 4.4 Test - Let Mr. Ruiz know if you would like the test with patterns instead of colors. The Seperate setting is in Room 3.
Test retakes open on Monday.
Write your written response here (#84) CR 4.3.4 SA, not in Amplify. Don't forget to click the turn-in button when you are done. You get three attempts. It is due on 2/27/2026.
05 FEB 2026 - Thursday
The end-of-unit assessment is tomorrow. Review the unit.
CR 4.2.2 Pear Deck | CR 4.2.3 Evidence Card Sort | Westfield Museum Diamond Heist
Amplify Assignments CR 4.3 | Science Seminar Observations | (#83) CR 4.3.1-4
Write your written response here (#84) CR 4.3.4 SA, not in Amplify. Don't forget to click the turn-in button when you are done. You get three attempts. It is due on 2/27/2026.
04 FEB 2026 - Wednesday - WIN
The end-of-unit assessment is on Friday. Review the unit.
iReady
03 FEB 2026 - Tuesday
Amplify Assignments CR 4.2 | CR 4.2.2 Pear Deck | CR 4.2.3 Evidence Card Sort | ALL CARDS | (#82) CR 4.2.1-4
The end-of-unit assessment is on Friday. Review the unit.
02 FEB 2026 - Monday
Notice: The End-of-Unit test will be on Friday, February 6th.
Amplify Assignments CR 4.1 | CR 4.1.2 Evidence Card Sort | (#81) CR 4.1.1-3
30 JAN 2026 - Friday
29 JAN 2026 - Thursday
28 JAN 2026 - Wednesday - WIN
27 JAN 2026 - Tuesday
For the curious mind: Combustion Video 1 | Video 2 | Video 3 | Video 4
26 JAN 2026 - Monday
https://www.youtube.com/live/ip7O9RciTeE?t=980s
23 JAN 2026 - Friday - WIN
Edpuzzle: Chemical Reactions | Review Cartoon | Chemical Reactions Unit Review
Retakes: (#75) Critical Juncture Assessment
IReady, Blooket, etc.
22 JAN 2026 - Thursday
Amplify Assignments CR 2.5 | Sim | (Digital Tokens Modeling Tool) | Review Cartoon | (#76) CR 2.5.1-4
21 JAN 2026 - Wednesday (Substitute: Mr. Cordell)
If you can't tell the difference between the atoms' colors, please let me know.
Amplify Assignments CR 2.4 | (#75) CR 2.4 Test - Critical Juncture Assessment
This is an open test; use your notes, Amplify, the simulator, and the Unit Review document.
After the test, work on yesterday's poster.
20 JAN 2026 - Tuesday
NOTICE: Test on 1/21 (Wed.) and retakes on 1/23 (Fri.)
(#74) CR Poster - Chemical Reaction Poster (Use the simulator, include all parts below.)
1. Title: "Chemical Reaction"
2. Label: Reactant/s, (Yields) ---->, Product/s
3. Draw: Micro-scale model (atoms and molecules)
4. Label: Chemical formulas
5. Draw/Color: Draw some lab glassware for decoration, and color your poster.
EXAMPLE POSTER: If you were absent or need to get caught up, copy this poster.
19 JAN 2026 - Monday - HOLIDAY
NO SCHOOL
16 JAN 2026 - Friday
NOTICE: Test on 1/21 (Wed.) and retakes on 1/23 (Fri.)
Amplify Assignments CR 2.3 | (Activity 2) Digital Tokens | (Activity 3) Chemical Reactions Pear Deck | (#73) CR 2.3.1-3
15 JAN 2026 - Thursday
14 JAN 2026 - Wednesday - WIN (Substitute: Mr. Cordell)
Everyone to start the day: Chemical Reactions Key Terms
Teacher: https://www.blooket.com/ Students: https://play.blooket.com/play
Work on missing science assignments, redo low-score assignments, or both.
Academic work from other classes
iReady Math
Optional Videos: What is chemistry? , local: Flood Video
13 JAN 2026 - Tuesday - LAB
12 JAN 2026 - Monday
09 JAN 2026 - Friday
Are you color blind? https://www.colorlitelens.com/color-vision-test.html
Amplify Assignments CR 1.5 | (#69) CR 1.5.1-3 | CR 1.5.4 Pear Deck
08 JAN 2026 - Thursday
07 JAN 2026 - Wednesday - WIN
Chemical Reactions: Pre-Unit Assessment (Optional and not for a grade)
iReady Math
Video: What is chemistry?
Chemical Reactions Key Terms: https://play.blooket.com/play
06 JAN 2026 - Tuesday - LAB
05 JAN 2026 - Monday - LAB
If you haven't done this yet, feel free to complete it on your own time: Chemical Reactions: Pre-Unit Assessment
Beginning of Third Quarter
_________________________________________
End of Second Quarter
SECOND QUARTER (13 OCT 2025 - 19 DEC 2025)
>>> Phase Change Unit Review | Sentence Starters | Dictionary | Chat <<<
19 DEC 2025 - Friday - WIN
Chemical Reactions: Pre-Unit Assessment (Optional and not for a grade)
Retakes are open from 8:00 AM today until 3:00 PM on Friday, December 19th: (#63) PC 4.5 Test (End-of-Unit)
18 DEC 2026 - Thursday
Without Permission Presentations (Got to class first for attendance, then report to the Cafeteria.)
Retakes are open from 8:00 AM today until 3:00 PM on Friday, December 19th: (#63) PC 4.5 Test (End-of-Unit)
17 DEC 2025 - Wednesday
Amplify Assignments PC 4.2 | PC 4.2.2 Visual Claims | PC 4.2.1-3 Pear Deck | PC 4.2.1.4 Evidence Card Sort | PC 4.2.1.-3 | (#65) PC 4.2.3-5
Retakes are open from 8:00 AM today until 3:00 PM on Friday, December 19th: (#63) PC 4.5 Test (End-of-Unit)
16 DEC 2025 - Tuesday
15 DEC 2025 - Monday (Substitute: Hika)
(#63) PC 4.5 Test (End-of-Unit)
If you finish early, do a quiet activity.
12 DEC 2025 - Friday - WIN
The End-of-Unit test will be on Monday. Phase Change Unit Review
Check AERIES and address missing or low-scoring assignments. The end of the quarter is one week from now.
(#61) PC 3.4 Quiz: Retakes
11 DEC 2025 - Thursday
If you have not yet done so, complete this test: (#61) PC 3.4 Quiz
10 DEC 2025 - Wednesday
(#61) PC 3.4 Quiz: Work on this at school, at home, or both. There are 12 questions. Retakes are on Friday.
09 DEC 2025 - Tuesday
08 DEC 2025- Monday
05 DEC 2025 - Friday - WIN DAY (last 15 minutes)
Amplify Assignments PC 3.1 | PC 3.1 Simulator Questions | Tug-of-War | (#58) PC 3.1.1-2
WIN Day: Blooket Phase Change Key Terms
04 DEC 2025 - Thursday
Amplify Assignments PC 2.3 | Review what you have learned to help you on the warm-up | PC 2.3.2 Titan Evidence Card Sort | (#57) PC 2.3.1-2
03 DEC 2025 - Wednesday - LAB
Claim 1: Transferring energy into or out of a substance changes its temperature, which changes the molecules’ freedom of movement.
Claim 2: Transferring energy into or out of a substance changes the molecules’ kinetic energy, which changes their freedom of movement.
Claim 3: Transferring energy into or out of a substance changes the molecules’ speed, which changes their freedom of movement.
02 DEC 2025 - Tuesday
01 DEC 2025 - Monday
PC Poster - Example Posters
(1.) Title: PHASE CHANGE
(2.) Draw a model of the molecules, with kinetic energy/motion lines. [ ) , ) ) , or ) ) ) ]
(3.) Label the transformation processes: melting, vaporizing, condensing, freezing.
(4.) Label the phases: solid, liquid, gas
(5.) Write the explanations of why phase changes happen.
(6.) Include the KEY: " ) " = kinetic energy/motion
(7.) (Optional) Use some color in your poster.
21 NOV 2025 - Friday
20 NOV 2025 - Thursday
How to Screenshot | How to upload: (add file, upload, browse, downloads, screenshot)
Instructional Videos | Teacher Slides PC 1.4 Don't click here
19 NOV 2025 - Wednesday - WIN
START HERE >>> Model a solid, liquid, and gas: PC 1.3.2.2 Modeling Tool - Pear Deck
Blooket Phase Change Key Terms
If needed, test make-ups: (#48) RT 4.4 TEST
Low scores, missing assignments, iReady MyPath Math.
18 NOV 2025 - Tuesday - LAB
17 NOV 2025 - Monday
>>> Rock Transformations Unit Review <<<
14 NOV 2024 - Friday - WIN
Retakes: (#48) RT 4.4 TEST (If you can test in a separate setting, go to room 3 now.)
Any academic work from this class or other classes.
Phase Change Pre-Test (Not graded in Aeries.)
If you finish early, work on the poster from November 5th below.
13 NOV 2025 - Thursday | Continued from yesterday
If you were absent on Monday, make up your test by Friday. (#48) RT 4.4 TEST
Students consider whether rock transformations on Venus are producing mostly sedimentary rocks or mostly igneous rocks. They evaluate and analyze photographic and descriptive evidence, and also analyze evidence about energy sources on the planet.
[FIRST - warm-up only] Amplify Assignments RT 4.1
Eliminate the weakest cards and annotate the four remaining Set-1: [SECOND] Pear Deck RT 4.1.3-4 | All of the Cards - Set 1
Extra Important Evidence: [THIRD] Pear Deck RT 4.2.2-3 | All of the Cards - Set 2 | (#50) RT 4.2-1-3
[FOURTH - argument only] Write a scientific argument that addresses the question: What rock transformation processes are happening on Venus?
12 NOV 2025 - Wednesday | You may also work on these assignments tomorrow.
If you were absent on Monday, make up your test by Friday. (#48) RT 4.4 TEST
Students consider whether rock transformations on Venus are producing mostly sedimentary rocks or mostly igneous rocks. They evaluate and analyze photographic and descriptive evidence, and also analyze evidence about energy sources on the planet.
[FIRST - warm-up only] Amplify Assignments RT 4.1 | (#49) RT 4.1.1-4
Eliminate the weakest cards and annotate the four remaining Set-1: [SECOND] Pear Deck RT 4.1.3-4 | All of the Cards - Set 1
Extra Important Evidence: [THIRD] Pear Deck RT 4.2.2-3 | All of the Cards - Set 2
[FOURTH - argument only] Write a scientific argument that addresses the question: What rock transformation processes are happening on Venus?
11 NOV 2025 - NO SCHOOL
Veterans Day
10 NOV 2025 - Monday
(#48) RT 4.4 TEST - If you need headphones, they are in the back of the room.
This is an open-book test. Retakes will be on Friday, November 14th.
I will send home a missing assignment and grade reports at the end of the day.
You must complete your Rock Cycle Poster (go back to 05 NOV 2025's assignment description)
iReady: Math My Path | Solo Blooket
Academic work from other classes.
07 NOV 2025 - Friday
Amplify Assignments RT 3.4 | RT 3.4.2 Pear Deck (Write and Share) | RT 3.4.3 Pear Deck (Modeling Tool) | (#47) RT 3.4.3-4
Place your PM 3.4.4 written response here (Class Companion).
YOUR END OF UNIT ASSESSMENT WILL BE ON Monday, November 10th, 2025 (Review Video 1, Review Video 2)
06 NOV 2025 - Thursday
Amplify Assignments RT 3.3 | If you are here today: Game and Dice | (#46) RT 3.3.3-4
If you were absent: RT 3.3.2 Google Doc (Chart) and RT 3.3.3 Pear Deck (Map). If you are confused, copy the teacher's example.
YOUR END OF UNIT ASSESSMENT WILL BE ON Monday, November 10th, 2025 (Review Video 1, Review Video 2)
05 NOV 2025 - Wednesday - WIN
Rock Transformation Poster - Example Posters - With Explanations (A, B, C) - Self Help
(1.) Title: The Rock Cycle
(2.) Draw your poster
(3.) Color your poster
(4.) Label the transformation processes: weathering, erosion, deposition, compaction, cementation, subduction, heat and pressure, melting, uplift, and cooling.
(5.) Label the materials: igneous rock, sediment, sedimentary rock, metamorphic rock, and magma.
No, Earth is not flat: Live 4K video of Earth and space: 24/7 Livestream of Earth by Sen’s 4K video cameras on the ISS | The Axis of Rotation
04 NOV 2025 - Tuesday
03 NOV 2025 - Monday
The Oldest Rocks on Earth (10:02)
The formation of the Moon (1:50)
31 OCT 2025 - Friday - WIN
Rock Transformations 2.5 - Critical Juncture Assessment - Retakes (#42) RT 2.5 Test
It's an "open-book" test; this website is your "book".
If you finish early, work on missing assignments or those with low scores.
Rock Transformations - Solo Blooket.
30 OCT 2025 - Thursday
Rock Transformations 2.6: Investigating Hawaiian Rocks [ What color group are you in? Click to find out! ]
Purple Group: Reading “Rocks on the Hawaiian Islands”
[ Video 5:10 Activity 1 | Activity 1 Warm-Up | Video 2:52 Activity 2.1 | Activity 2 Sim and Parts 1, 2 | Video 2:58 Activity 2.2 | Video 4:17 Activity 2T ]
Green Group: Reading “Hawaiian Volcanoes and Beaches”
[ Video 4:33 Activity 1 | Activity 1 Warm-Up | Video 1:43 Activity 2.1 | Activity 2 Sim and Parts 1, 2 | Video 3:23 Activity 2.2 | Video 4:17 Activity 2T ]
Blue Group: Reading “Hawaiian Volcanoes and Beaches”
[ Video 5:19 Activity 1 | Activity 1 Warm-Up | Video 2:43 Activity 2.1 | Activity 2 Sim and Parts 1, 2, 3 | Video 4:09 Activity 2.2-3 | Video 4:17 Activity 2T ]
Assignment/s summary for all groups: RT 2.6.1, RT 2.6.2, (#43) RT 2.6.1-2
29 OCT 2025 - Wednesday
(#42) RT 2.5 Test | It's an "open-book" test; this website is your "book".
Retakes are on Friday, after the differentiated reteach lesson.
If you finish early, work on missing assignments or those with low scores. Register for rewards day.
Rock Transformations - Solo Blooket
What is the square root of 4489? By the way, a score of 9 or higher is passing on the test.
28 OCT 2025 - Tuesday
There is a mid-unit test tomorrow. Read this to refresh your memory: Rock Transformations Unit Review
Amplify Assignments RT 2.4 | RT 2.4.2 Write and Share | RT 1.5.2 Modeling Rock Formation | (#41) RT 2.4.1-2
27 OCT 2025 - Monday - LAB
24 OCT 2025 - Friday
Amplify Assignments RT 2.2 | Devil's Tower Google Earth | (#39) RT 2.2.1-2
(If you are curious) More about the Core | Cretaceous North American Seaway
23 OCT 2025 - Thursday
Amplify Assignments RT 2.1 | (#38) RT 2.1.1-2
(If you are curious) How deep have we drilled into the earth?
22 OCT 2025 - Wednesday - WIN
Work on incomplete assignments, redo assignments with low scores, or both.
iReady my PATH MATH
If you have extra time and are behaving: Solo Blooket Link | https://play.blooket.com/play
21 OCT 2025- Tuesday
20 OCT 2025 - Monday
NO SCHOOL
17 OCT 2025 - Friday - LAB
Amplify Assignments RT 1.4 (Activity 1 and 2 only) | (Useful Videos - Video A 4:19 - Video B 2:45 - Video C 1:11 ) | (#36) RT 1.4.1-2
Instructional Videos (Activity 1 and 2 only) | Teacher Slides RT 1.4
16 OCT 2025 - Thursday - (Substitute)
Video: (17:26) Continental Drift The Full Story Pay close attention and take notes if you want. No Chromebooks until the video is over.
After the video, choose one of the two following assignments to complete:
Join EdPuzzle, then complete the Multiple-Choice questions (#35) PM 3.5 MC; or,
Writen Response: (#35) PM 3.5 WR >>> SENTENCE STARTERS <<<
15 OCT 2025 - Wednesday
Amplify Assignments RT 1.3 | (#34) RT 1.3.1-2 | (OPTIONAL) RT 1.3.3-4
14 OCT 2025 -Tuesday - LAB
Amplify Assignments RT 1.2 | Pear Deck RT 1.2.3 Rock Samples | Padlet | (#33) RT 1.2.3
13 OCT 2025 - Monday - (Substitute)
(Not graded in Aeries) RT 1.1 Pre-TEST - Take your time, do the best you can.
Check Aeries and do missing work or redo low-score work. (14 OCT 2025 at 11:59 is the absolute deadline for late 1st quarter work)
Most Incomplete Assignments: (#30) PM 3.4.4 Essay and (#23) Plate Boundary Model (your poster, see 26 SEP 2025 for directions)
If you finish early: iReady My Path Math | Rock Transformations Key Terms on Blooket
____________________________________________________
FIRST QUARTER (12 AUG 2025 - 10 OCT 2025)
>>> Plate Motion Unit Review | Sentence Starters | Dictionary <<<
10 OCT 2025 - Friday - WIN
Retakes: (#31) PM 4.4 TEST
Check AERIES and do missing work or redo low-score work.
Most Incomplete Assignments: (#30) PM 3.4.4 Essay and (#23) Plate Boundary Model ("your poster", see 26 SEP 2025 for directions)
If you finish early, study: iReady My Path Math | Rock Transformations Key Terms on Blooket
09 OCT 2025 - Thursday
This is your last chance to practice what you have learned about plate motion or learn what you missed.
Amplify Assignments PM 4.1 | Pear Deck PM 4.1.3.1 Evidence Cards A-E | PM 4.1.4 Sorting Evidence | (#32) PM 4.1.1-3.1 - This assignment will be graded as a test in AERIES!
08 OCT 2025 - Wednesday
(31) PM 4.4 TEST (Use my website like your book. It's an open-book test.) There are 18 questions worth a total of 19 points.
If you finish early, draw your (#23) poster and write the (#30) PM 3.4.4 Essay before any free time activities.
07 OCT 2025 -Tuesday
Amplify Assignments PM 3.4 | Indian Plate Motion Video | (#29) PM 3.4.3-5 (#30) PM 3.4.4 Essay
(Optional Extras) Convection Currents Demonstration | Convection Currents Move the Mantel Material | Explore this plate simulator
How to Screenshot | How to upload: (add file, upload, browse, downloads, screenshot)
six-seven
06 OCT 2025 - Monday
Amplify Assignments PM 3.3 | PM 3.3.3 Reconstructing Gondawanaland | PM 3.3.3 Video Directions | (#28) PM 3.3.1-2
03 OCT 2025 - Friday
Amplify Assignments PM 3.2 | (#27) PM 3.2.1-3 | Explore this plate simulator
If you finish early, work on your poster or other missing or low-score assignments.
02 OCT 2025 - Thursday
Amplify Assignments PM 3.1 | PM 3.1.3 Word Relationships | (#26) PM 3.1.3-4
Plate Motion Simulation | Plate Motion Data Tool activity: Plate Distance vs. Time | Calculator
01 OCT 2025 - Wednesday - WIN
Check your answers to yesterday's review assignments | Video about Iceland (2:21) | Video about Iceland (40:39)
Retakes: Plate Motion 2.6 - Critical Juncture Assessment - (#24) PM 2.6 TEST (Use my website like your book. It's an open-book test.)
2nd priority: Complete your cross-section models of convergent and divergent plate boundaries. (#23 Plate Boundary Model)
3rd priority: Complete missing work, improve low scores, or both. If you have less than 75% in this class, go to Aeries to see what you need to fix; otherwise
Study the Plate Motion Key Terms on Blooket or Quizlet | iReady
30 SEP 2025 - Tuesday
Everyone: Exploring Iceland's Plate Boundary [ Video 7:00 Activity 1 | Activity 1 Warm-Up (See what color group you're in?) ]
Green Group: [ Video 5:52 Activity 2: Parts 1 and 2, Video 6:37 Parts 3, 4, and 5 | Activity 2 read and annotate then work on the PM 2.7 Modeling Tool | Video 2:25 Activity 3 | Activity 3 Critiquing Models | (#25) PM 2.7.1-2 ]
Blue Group: [ Video 6:34 Activity 2: Parts 1 and 2, Video 5:23 Parts 3 and 4 | Activity 2 read and annotate then work on the PM 2.7 Modeling Tool | Video 3:00 Activity 3 | Activity 3 Critiquing Models | (#25) PM 2.7.1-2 ]
Purple Group: [ Video 8:25 Activity 2: Parts 1 and 2 | Activity 2 read and annotate, then work on the PM 2.7 Modeling Tool | Video 3:10 Activity 3 | Activity 3 Critiquing Models | (#25) PM 2.7.1-2 ]
Everyone: Teacher Slides 2.7
The assessment retake will be tomorrow, October 1st, after the reteach lessons.
29 SEP 2025 - Monday
Plate Motion 2.6 - Critical Juncture Assessment - (#24) PM 2.6 TEST (Use my website like your book. It's an open-book test.)
If you finish early, work on your poster (#23 Plate Boundary Model), or this (PM 2.5.4).
The assessment retake will be on Wednesday, October 1st, after the reteach lessons.
26 SEP 2025 -Friday
Reminder: If you have not done this yet, I need you to write your response... PM 2.5.4
(#23) Plate Boundary Model | Supplies available: paper, colored pencils, crayons, rulers, scissors
Include the following items (worth 5 points total):
(1) Title: Plate Boundaries
(2) Subtitles: Divergent, Convergent
(3) Model: Draw and color each type of plate boundary.
(4) Label: plate 1, plate 2, trench, ridge or mid-ocean ridge, mantle, the direction of plate movement
(5) Description: Write a brief description of the plate and mantle interactions at each boundary.
Use the following resources for help: Listening to Earth | PM 2.3.2: Boundary Characteristics Chart
BE CREATIVE: Feel free to research other plate boundary pictures on the Internet and example posters.
Suppose you do not have access to physical supplies or need to modify this assignment, create a digital poster and share it with Mr. Ruiz at eruiz@turlock.k12.ca.us. In that case, You can copy and paste digital images into your digital poster if needed. If you copy and paste pictures from the internet, cite your image sources (include the hyperlink).
Have FUN! I plan on posting these all over the classroom walls and on my website. :-)
25 SEP 2025 - Thursday
Amplify Assignments PM 2.5 | PM 2.5.3 Modeling Tool | (#22) PM 2.5.3-5
Reminders: PM 2.3.2 Notes | PM 2.4.3 Notes
24 SEP 2025 - Wednesday
Amplify Assignments PM 2.4 | PM 2.3: Boundary Characteristics Chart | PM 2.4.2 Modeling Tool | (#21) PM 2.4.3-4
23 SEP 2025 - Tuesday - WIN
If you fell behind yesterday, catch up. Don't forget to take notes about the "Listening to Earth" article here: PM 2.3: Boundary Characteristics Chart.
Check your grade in Aeries and make-up or redo missing or low-score assignments.
22 SEP 2025 - Monday
Amplify Assignments PM 2.3 | PD: Boundary Characteristics Chart | (#20) PM 2.3.1-2
Complete your scientific argument (#12) GM 3.4 Essay. Make sure you turned it in on Class Companion. Then, you may mark it as complete in Google Classroom.
19 SEP 2025 - Friday
Amplify Assignments PM 2.2 | (#19) PM 2.2.1-2
(Example of Sound from a Hydrophone) | Tsunami (2) | Understanding the Richter Scale (5:56)
Complete your scientific argument (#12) GM 3.4 Essay. Make sure you turned it in on Class Companion. Then, you may mark it as complete in Google Classroom.
18 SEP 2025 - Thursday - LAB
17 SEP 2025 - Wednesday - WIN
Check AERIES and Make-up work (missing assignments, low scores, or both).
16 SEP 2025 - Tuesday
15 SEP 2025 - Monday
Amplify Assignments PM 1.3 | (#16) PM 1.3.1-2 | PM 1.3 Activity 3 Maps & Projections | (Optional) PM 1.3.3-4
12 SEP 2025 - Friday
Amplify Assignments PM 1.2 | Pear Deck PM 1.2.4 Map | (#15) PM 1.2.1-2
(#14) GM 3.5 Test- Make-ups and retakes. Tests are "open-book," meaning you can use any links from my website. Retakes are mandatory if you scored 11 or less. Retakes are optional if you scored 12 or higher.
>>> Geology on Mars Unit Review <<<
11 SEP 2025 - Thursday - WIN
(#14) GM 3.5 Test- Make-ups and retakes. Tests are "open-book," meaning you can use any links from my website. Retakes are mandatory if you scored 11 or less. Retakes are optional if you scored 12 or higher.
Due today: Plate Motion Pre-Unit Assessment. This is mandatory. However, it does not affect your grade.
Complete your scientific argument (#12) GM 3.4 Essay. Make sure you turned it in on Class Companion. Then, you may mark it as complete in Google Classroom.
If you finish early, try: iReady | Dynamic Systems (Engineering Practice) | Dynamic Systems 2 | Explore Mars: A Mars Rover Game
10 SEP 2025 - Wednesday
(#14) GM 3.5 Test. Mr. Ruiz will unlock the test after giving directions. Tests are "open-book," meaning you can use any links from my website.
Plate Motion Pre-Unit Assessment: This is mandatory. However, it does not affect your grade. (You will have more time tomorrow, too.)
Complete your scientific argument (#12) GM 3.4 Essay
Explore Mars: A Mars Rover Game | NASA Space Place – NASA Science for Kids
09 SEP 2025 - Tuesday
Amplify Assignments GM 3.4 | Join Class Companion | SENTENCE STARTERS | (#12) GM 3.4 Essay | (#13) GM 3.4.1-4
(Optional Video 14:30) Mars Facts and History
08 SEP 2025 - Monday - WIN
Amplify Assignments GM 3.3 | (Review) GM 3.2.3 Evidence Gradient | (#11) GM 3.3.1-2
Watch this starting at about the 4:00 minute mark: https://app.screencastify.com/watch/xwEPq76AhhcNetvhvGyU
05 SEP 2025 - Friday - LAB
Amplify Assignments GM 3.2 | GM 3.2.2 More New Information | GM 3.2.3 Evidence Gradient | (#10) GM 3.2.1-5
04 SEP 2025 - Thursday
Amplify Assignments GM 3.1 | GM 3.1.2-3 Evidence Gradient | GM 3.1.3 New NASA Information | (#9) GM 3.1.1-3
Extra information if you were absent today (old video, but still relevant)
If you finish early, explore this just for fun!
03 SEP 2025 - Wednesday
Amplify Assignments GM 2.3 | Testing an Idea Student Sheets | Stream 1 (low slope) | Stream 2 (high slope) | Video of both slopes (0:27)
Flowing Lava Model (5:14) | Real Lava Flowing (4:10)
02 SEP 2025 - Tuesday
Internet Outage: We played a game involving recording detailed observations of 20 different rock samples, and then we tried to guess which rock was being described.
01 SEP 2025 - Monday
NO SCHOOL - Labor Day Holiday
29 AUG 2025 - Friday
Amplify Assignments GM 2.1 | Observation Sheets | Amplify GM 2.2.4
(#6) GM 2.1.1-5 | (#7) GM 2.1.4 Screenshot Annotation | How to Screenshot | How to upload: (add file, upload, browse, downloads, screenshot)
Optional: https://orb.farm/ | Venus Death of a Planet 4k
28 AUG 2025 - Thursday - LAB
27 AUG 2025 - Wednesday - WIN
Booklet for all classes except 4th period.
4th Period catch-up-time: Amplify Assignments GM 1.3 | GM 1.3.3 Set 1 | GM 1.3.3 Set 2 | Channel on Mars
26 AUG 2025 - Tuesday
25 AUG 2025 - Monday
Amplify Assignments GM 1.2 | Geologic Processes (water and lava flow pictures) | MAP-2 | Mar's Trek | Google Maps | | Channel on Mar
(#3) GM 1.2.1-5
22 AUG 2025 - Friday - WIN
Complete this Career Survey | Check your grade in AERIES. If you are unable to log in, please ask Mr. Ruiz for assistance.
(If you fell behind, get caught up.) Amplify Assignments GM 1.1 | The Night Sky | Our Solar System | The Four Rocky Planets | The Earth System | Spheres | Meet a Planetary Geologist (2:56)
(#2) GM 1.1.1-5
21 AUG 2025 - Thursday - (Continued from yesterday)
Amplify Assignments GM 1.1 | The Night Sky | Our Solar System | The Four Rocky Planets | The Earth System | Spheres | Meet a Planetary Geologist (2:56)
(#2) GM 1.1.1-5
20 AUG 2025 - Wednesday - (This lesson will take two days.)
Amplify Assignments GM 1.1 | The Night Sky | Our Solar System | The Four Rocky Planets | The Earth System | Spheres | Meet a Planetary Geologist (2:56)
(#2) GM 1.1.1-5
19 AUG 2025 - Tuesday
Join our Google Class: https://classroom.google.com/c/NzkxODE1NTQwNzIx?cjc=3ys44ilz
Introduction to Amplify Science (3:11) | Navigating Amplify Science (15:39) | 27 Insanely Cool Experiments (13:44) Students can watch this while I help them get logged in.
(#1) First Day Form
18 AUG 2025 - Monday - LAB
15 AUG 2025 - Friday
If you finish early, work on your colored pattern, your inquiry cube, or both.
14 AUG 2025 - Thursday
Complete the blank face of your inquiry cube today, and use evidence and reasoning to explain why you made the predictions that you made.
When you are done, on the back of the graph paper, create a colored pattern.
Use 1/4 inch graph paper. Make a larger square from 23 by 23 to 33 by 33, 1/4 inch squares.
Use at least three colors in your pattern.
Write your name, date, and period on your graph paper.
13 AUG 2025 - Wednesday
Complete the missing face of the cube: Virtual Cube | Printable Paper Cube
Students will be asked to look for patterns of information. Using the information found on the virtual cube, students will need to interpret patterns and use the evidence provided to defend their ideas about completing the missing face of the cube.
12 AUG 2025 - Tuesday
Welcome back to school!
Review the Syllabus
Join our Google Class: https://classroom.google.com/c/NzkxODE1NTQwNzIx?cjc=3ys44ilz
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