8th Grade Science

Course Description: Eighth grade science is a general science course covering the disciplines of life, Earth, space, and physical science. The course emphasizes a basic knowledge of science concepts and process skills through experimentation and activity-orientated lessons.

Overview: There is always bellwork on the board at the front of the classroom. When the bell rings, students are to be in their seats, quiet, and working on the assignments. Students are expected to follow the district, school, and classroom discipline plans.

Class Participation:

When in my class, students are required to be on task from bell to bell. Being on task not only means completing the work, but also, sitting up, staying awake, and contributing relevant information to our lessons.

Grading Criteria:

1. Daily Grade 25%

• Homework: All homework is due at the beginning of class. Homework will not be accepted if it is late unless due to an absence. For most assignments, students will have plenty of time to complete the work in class. Students are responsible for completing any unfinished work at home. Homework assignments will be checked in class the next day for completion. 

• Labs: Lab grades are determined by participation, lab reports, questions, and following the safety rules. If a student is behaving inappropriately, the student will be removed from the lab activity and will be given a zero.

• Classwork: All classwork is due at the end of class unless the teacher states differently.

• Quizzes/Pretests: Quizzes are given on ANY given day at the beginning, middle, or end of class. Students may or may not be informed of an upcoming quiz; therefore, students should be prepared at all times. Students are not allowed to retest a quiz to receive a higher grade.

2. Test Grade 55%

• Tests: Each test covers the notes, vocabulary, lab concepts, and handouts that are given while covering each section or chapter.

• Projects: One project will be given each term. Projects are more lengthy and detailed than regular classwork or homework. Students may be asked to create posters, models, PowerPoints, or other presentations.

3. Term Test 20%

• A comprehensive term test is given at the end of each term. A syllabus is given at the beginning of each term with the necessary information that will be covered and tested on the exam. The exam is computer generated. A study guide will not be given to students.

Additional information:

• Students are responsible for checking the make-up folder for missed handouts.
• The student is responsible for getting any assignments, tests, or quizzes missed due to absences upon returning to school.
• The student is responsible for getting notes missed when he/she is absent and making up any missing work.
• Extra credit is not available.