Harrells Christian Academy

Course Syllabus

Course Title Science

Grade Level Grade Seven

Instructor Mrs. Lynn Graham

(910) 296-6075 Home

(910) 532-4575

Description

Science is a process to investigate the world. Developments in science and technology are ever changing. The Seventh Grade Science student will study life, earth, and physical science. Students are expected to attain a working knowledge of the application of the scientific approach to problem solving, and basic lab skills. The seventh grade science student will study the following:

1. Earth’s Atmosphere:

Students will study the composition, properties, and monitoring of the atmosphere. We will study atmospheric conditions that contribute to weather patterns and weather conditions. We will investigate the technology used to forecast and predict weather conditions.

1. The Human Body:

Students will study the systems of the human body. Focus will be given to the major function of each system and how the systems work together. We will discuss the effects of environmental influences (chemicals, smoking, alcohol, drugs, and diet) on the function of each system.

1. Heredity and Genetics:

Students will study the role of genetics and heredity in living organisms. We will focus on the significance of genetics as related to the inheritance of characteristics. We will discuss genetically inherited diseases and conditions.

1. Motion and Forces:

Students will study simple machines, Newton’s Laws, and the relation of moving objects with measured characteristics. We will relate the characteristics of motion and forces to real world applications; such as the human body, vehicles, aircraft, and moving objects.

Textbook Glencoe/McGraw-Hill. Science Voyages: Exploring the Life, Earth, and Physical. @2000

Required Materials

Pens and pencils

3-ring binder

notebook paper

bound composition book

paper towels

access to a computer and the Internet

Major Course Objectives

 Major course objectives as stated by the North Carolina Standard Course of Study can be located at www.ncpublicschools.org. Abbreviations of the goals for the seventh grade science student according to the NCSCOS are as follows:

 

• Design and conduct investigations to demonstrate an understanding of scientific inquiry.
• Demonstrate an understanding of technological design.
• Build an understanding of the atmosphere.
• Build an understanding of the complementary nature of the human body systems.
• Build an understanding of heredity and genetics.
• Build an understanding of motion and forces.

Major performance expectations include the following:

1. The student will maintain an organized notebook, and will include all notes, vocabulary, section assessment, chapter assessment and resource material assignments.

1. The student will maintain a Science Journal as directed by instructor. Entries will be recorded by date. Journal entries will be directed for all demonstrations as well as laboratory activities.
2. The student will be expected to give verbal as well as written support for all explanations and answers.
3. Students are expected to participate in class discussions and in all lab activities.
4. Complete cooperation during lab activities will be required in accordance with the Science Safety Contract.

As instructional methodology, the teacher will:

1. Relate scientific methods and technologies to encourage an understanding of the learning goals for the seventh grade science student.

1. Include real world examples, and demonstrations to simplify concepts.
2. Encourage students to think and communicate critically, analytically, and encourage inquiry.

 

Course Requirements and Grading

 

1. Daily Grades: 20% of grade

Daily grades will be taken for all homework assignments, group activities, lab activities and classroom assignments. The lowest daily grade will be dropped at the end of each six weeks grading period.

1. Science Journal : 20% of grade

Students will be required to maintain a science journal. All entries must have the date recorded. The content of the journal will be directed by the instructor. Students will be expected to write in complete sentences and support answers to questions.

1. Chapter Test /Projects/Reports: 50% of grade
2. Exams:

Students will be expected to take a chapter test not a cumulative exam during exam times. The test or exam will be weighted like a chapter test.

1. Class Participation: 10% of grade

All students will be encouraged to participate during class discussions. Questions related to the subject matter will be welcomed. Participation by everyone will increase the opportunity for learning. Students will be expected to participate during all group and lab activities.

Classroom Policies and Procedures

The student is expected to comply with the requirements as stated in the Harrells Christian Academy Student Handbook at all times.

 

1. Attendance :

Attendance is required. In the event that the student is absent or is leaving school early for any reason, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain all missed notes and information. All assigned work will be due before leaving or upon the student’s arrival after an absence.

1. Classroom Conduct :

1. Students should be prepared for class each day with required materials.
2. Students are expected to be respectful to their classmates.
3. Students should keep hands, feet, and other objects to themselves.
4. There should be no inappropriate language, name calling, or racial slurs.
5. Students are expected to be in class by or before the tardy bell.

1. Science Safety Contract :

All students and a guardian will be required to sign a science safety contract. There will be group lab activities. Complete cooperation is necessary in order to participate and maximize these learning opportunities. This can be a fun, hands-on learning experience. Misbehavior such as horse-play, loud talking, or misuse of materials will not be tolerated.

1. Sharpening pencils:

Pencils should be sharpened at the beginning of class. If a student’s pencil breaks during class, the student may sharpen their pencil. Please be respectful. This should not be an opportunity to disrupt the class.

1. Using the restroom:

Students will be encouraged to use the restroom between classes. If a student needs to go during class they will be expected to (one at a time) sign out and take a pass. It will not be necessary to ask permission.

Failure to Comply with Classroom Polices and Procedures

Consequences:

1. First offense: Offense will be documented, and student will be given verbal warning.
2. Second offense: Offense will be documented, and parent will be notified.
3. Third offense: Offense will be documented, and Friday school will be assigned.
4. Fourth offense: Offense will be documented, and student will be referred to administration.

 

Course Schedule

All assignments will be posted with due dates in a designated area of the classroom. Assignment, quiz, test, project, and report due dates will be posted in the class and on the class web page. Specific expectation requirements will be provided along with each project and report.