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BUSCH GARDEN FIELTRIP MONEY IS DUE BY MARCH 18TH 2011.
THE DEADLINE WILL NOT BE EXTENDED.
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Pre-AP & REGULAR LIFE SCIENCE SYLLABUS 2010-2011
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Course Title: Life Science
Course Instructor: Kay Thompson
Course Textbook: Prentice Hall: Science Explorer Life Science
Materials Needed:
Please bring all items each day!
Secure place for papers (notebook or section in binder, etc.)
Writing utensils (pencils and pens: dark blue or black only)
Notebook paper
Colored Pencils or other coloring supplies
Text book (A class set will be provided. YOU WILL BE ISSUED ONE TO TAKE HOME AND KEEP THERE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR).
Planner
Course Description:
Pre-AP Life Science emphasizes a more in-depth understanding of change, cycles, patterns, and relationships in the living world in populations, communities, and ecosystems. Students will explore change as a result of the transmission of genetic information from generation to generation. Pre-AP Life Science requires higher level critical thinking skills. Independent out-of-class assignments are an integral part of this advanced level work. Research projects requiring strong writing skills are emphasized. Pre-AP Life Science builds on skills of systematic investigation with a clear focus on variables and repeated trials. Validating conclusions through analysis of data is increasingly important at this level. Students will plan and conduct research involving both classroom experimentation and literature reviews from written and electronic resources. Students will propose practical solutions to real-life problems. Work will be shared through written reports and class presentations.
Life Science emphasizes a complex understanding of change, cycles, patterns, and relationships in the living world. Areas that will be explored include cellular organization, classification of organisms, the dynamic relationships among organisms, populations, communities and ecosystems, and change as a result of the transmission of genetic information from generation to generation. The goal of science is to better understand the world around us. During this course students will explore the world around them and look at the impact of human progress and scientific discoveries. In addition, students will discover their role in changing the world around them.
Assessment:
Grades will be based on a total number of points earned out of a total number of points possible. Assignments will range in value depending on their purpose. Tests, quizzes, and homework are typical methods of evaluation. Laboratory experiments, in-class assignments, and special projects will be assigned throughout the year. Homework is due the day after it is assigned and late work will result in a lower grade. One day late will be worth ½ credit and none after that day.
Extra credit: 5 points for a paragraph about an environmental newspaper article and 10 points for 2 paragraphs. The article must be included. (Limit 1 per week.)
Grading System:
The Roanoke County Schools grading scale is as follows:
A 94 to 100
B 87 to 93
C 78 to 86
D 70 to 77
F 69 and below
Course Outline and/or pacing chart:
The seventh grade curriculum will correspond directly with the state SOL (Standards of Learning).
Plan and conduct investigation
Investigate cells and cell theory
Patterns of organization
Basic needs of living things
Classification
Photosynthesis
Ecosystems biotic and abiotic factors
Interactions in populations
Interactions in communities
Adaptations
Ecosystem changes over time
Relationships between human activity and ecosystem dynamics
Genetics
Organisms change over time
These topics will be covered in a logical format where content can be connected to everyday experiences. The classroom textbook will be used and supported with supplemental materials including a variety of media such as streaming videos, computer programs, and laser disks.
Class Rules:
Be respectful of yourself, the school, the materials we use, other students, and of course the teachers. With respect and thoughtfulness all actions seem to fall into place. Follow school conduct code and science safety rules.
Use the Planner/Handbook as a hall pass and to record assignments.
Personal note to Parents & Guardians:
I have the great pleasure of teaching your student this year. I am looking forward to the new school year with much enthusiasm. I anxiously await the journey through the year with your child. I hope you will join me in my excitement as we embark on this new adventure. My e-mail address is klthompson@rcs.k12.va.us. I have a website where I will post homework assignments, long-term projects and news of events. The URL is http://www.quia.com/profiles/kthompson719.
Visit often and feel free to email me if you have questions or concerns.
Mrs. Kay Thompson
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