Science

Hurricane Earl

We will be reading about science, talking about science, writing about science, and experimenting about science! In our first unit of study, Water and Weather, students will examine the two components of weather, matter and energy, and how they combine to create weather as we know it. Students also will be experimenting with design projects throughout the year. You'll hear about our first one soon!
 * Welcome to Mrs. Duren's Science Class!**

__Classroom Expectations__ Together, students and I will create a listing of characteristics that make the classroom the best place for learning. Students will create a listing of characteristics that help them learn science concepts, successfully conduct labs, successfully do homework or projects, and review/study for quizzes and tests. However, there are some expectations that I have that are not negotiable: Students are expected to arrive to class on time; we have provided time in our schedule for locker breaks. When they arrive in class, students should always have: • their homework planner • completed homework • science binder with lined paper in each section (see below for explanation) • sharpened pencils with erasers • laptop, once they have been issued

Students are expected to keep a **three-ring binder** with the following divisions: Start of Class (SOC) Glossary Notes Homework Resources Gradually this three-ring binder will be used less and less as students learn to keep assignments and information in a Science Noteshare Notebook located on their laptop.

__Grading__ • Classwork – 25%(class participation, group work, preparedness, notebook, class activities) • Quizzes – 25% • Tests/Major Projects or Reports – 40% • Homework – 10%

__Homework__ is used to prepare for learning a new concept, practice a new concept, or to review for discussion the next day. I expect students to make an honest attempt to complete homework and to be prepared for class discussions. Discussions and classwork help students make connections and will deepen understanding for a student who is prepared. Homework and all assignments should be handed in on time. ◦ late one day late 70% ◦ late 2 -5 days 50% ◦ late after 5 school days late, 0%
 * Late homework assignments will not be given full credit.**
 * Late reports or projects will loose 10% for each day they are late.**

__Communication__ I think frequent feedback and communication are essential for learning in any situation and especially in school. My goal is to encourage an open climate of communication in the classroom and I hope students will feel comfortable in talking to me about questions or ideas they might have in science or school in general. Communication with parents, the guiding force at home, is also important. I will be updating assignment grades in Powergrade weekly so your parents will know how you are doing by looking at the Parent Portal. Reading and assignments will be posted on my Moodle page as well as the classroom activities for the day. Additionally, I will be available by phone: 465-2167 ext 2317 or by email: mduren@rsu18.org.

I'm looking forward to the '10-'11 school year and getting to know you! Sincerely, Mrs. Duren