Your grade in science is determined by total points. Tests and quizzes will be weighted a bit more than daily work, homework and notebooks.  Expect a bit more homework and rigor. The way to assure yourself of a passing grade in this class is to hand in all your work on time.  The following is a list of expectations for this class.

DAILY WORK- This includes worksheets, vocabulary and any book work that we do in class and scientific article reviews/summaries.

VOCABULARY- We will do vocabulary on a weekly basis.  You will be given a word list at the beginning of each unit/chapter and will have short quizzes on each Friday during the unit.  All words are fair game so it is important to get your words done by the first Friday of the unit.  Vocabulary is homework, and class time will only be available if you finish other assignments early.  I will check words the Friday after they are handed out for a homework grade so don’t procrastinate!!!  A unit vocabulary test will be given at the end of each unit so it is important to review your terms often throughout the unit.

QUIZZES- Quizzes will be given announced and unannounced. Anything is fair game for quizzes: movies, readings from the textbook, worksheets, labs, lectures. You will have a quiz at the end of each chapter.  These quizzes will serve as study guides for the unit test.

TESTS- Tests will be given at the end of each unit.

LABS AND ACTIVITIES- We will do as many labs this year as possible. I believe you learn best by doing hands on activities. The number of labs will depend on you! The first couple of labs will tell me if you are able to handle lab situations. There are many safety issues and lab procedures that need to be followed in order to participate in labs. 

NOTEBOOKS- I will have periodic notebook checks throughout the year. The purpose for a notebook is to stay  organized, and to have information at your fingertips.

HOMEWORK- You will have some homework in this class. It will not be a lot but be sure to get it done and handed in on time if you plan to have a passing grade at the end of the quarter. There will also be some home “projects” that you will be expected to do during the course of the year.

LATE WORK- You will be allowed one late assignment per quarter for full credit.  All other late work will receive a zero unless you are absent which is explained below.

ABSENCES- If you are absent, it is your responsibility to look at the agenda or website and make sure you have your make-up work. You have one day for each day you are absent to hand the work in. Prolonged absences will be dealt with on an individual basis.

PROGRESS REPORTS- You will receive a progress report at mid quarter. The progress report will need to be signed by a parent and returned for a grade. You should receive a progress report for each of your core classes on this day.  Grades will be up-dated weekly on schoolmaster so you can keep track of your progress.

EXTRA CREDIT- I give very little extra credit.  There will be some opportunity if you have ALL assignments in.

GRADING SCALE-

100-90 =A              89-80= B              79-70= C             69-64= D                64 and below= F