Syllabus: Cluster 7 Science, Grades 6, 7, and 8
Mrs. Detrich
Thurgood Marshall Middle School
Introduction:
It is a pleasure to be your Cluster 7 Science teacher at the Thurgood Marshall Middle School. The team of Cluster 7 teachers, and the entire school, have high expectations for our students’ academic achievement and behavior. We know you all are capable of wonderful achievements and personal growth and I look forward to our adventures in science together. The core values of TMMS are modeled and encouraged in all of us in our school family; dignity, respect, effort, achievement, and motivation. These are attributes that lead to success!
Class Content:
Our 6, 7, and 8th grade SEI science program is presented in English to assist students with improving their English language skills while learning science. The science curriculum is based on the national Next Generation Science Standards, which were designed to prepare students for college and career in the 21st century. Our program follows the Lynn Public Schools Middle School Science, Technology & Engineering Curriculum. Students will work collaboratively and independently in the study of life science, earth and space science, physical science, technology and engineering. Students will read, write, and create models and diagrams to demonstrate and apply what they learn. All 8th grade students will take the General Science MCAS exam in the spring which covers curriculum content from 6th, 7th, and 8th grades.
Materials Needed:
Pencils, a Science section in their binder, a positive attitude.
Also, helpful to have in class are highlighters, and colored pencils.
Grading and Policies:
Grades are based on points. Students will be graded on unit tests, quizzes, labs, speaking and listening, and classwork which includes a Science Packet for each unit. Active participation and positive behavior in class are traits that contribute to a productive learning environment. These traits are reflected in the report card comments. Assignments will be updated regularly for parents and students to view on the home-access center (HAC). Students are responsible for initiating make-up work that is missed due to absence.
We will participate in at least one lab activity or project for each unit of study. These science activities are wonderful learning experiences, but safe behavior is essential before and during each lab. Students will be provided with safety instructions before each lab and they will be expected to follow these instructions. If protective eyewear or gloves are needed they will be provided.
Extra Help:
I am available each Wednesday after school for extra help, with the exception of the first Wednesday of each month due to our monthly faculty meeting. I am frequently available on other afternoons as well.
Behavior:
Good behavior for all students is very important to having a productive learning environment. Our classroom expectations are as follows:
How can parents help at home?
Your student’s guidance counselor is Ms. Blanca Rosa. She can assist you with any questions you may have about your student’s grades and attendance. Feel free to contact me any time with questions. I look forward to working with you and your child this year.
Sincerely,
Cecilia Detrich
[email protected]
Mrs. Detrich
Thurgood Marshall Middle School
Introduction:
It is a pleasure to be your Cluster 7 Science teacher at the Thurgood Marshall Middle School. The team of Cluster 7 teachers, and the entire school, have high expectations for our students’ academic achievement and behavior. We know you all are capable of wonderful achievements and personal growth and I look forward to our adventures in science together. The core values of TMMS are modeled and encouraged in all of us in our school family; dignity, respect, effort, achievement, and motivation. These are attributes that lead to success!
Class Content:
Our 6, 7, and 8th grade SEI science program is presented in English to assist students with improving their English language skills while learning science. The science curriculum is based on the national Next Generation Science Standards, which were designed to prepare students for college and career in the 21st century. Our program follows the Lynn Public Schools Middle School Science, Technology & Engineering Curriculum. Students will work collaboratively and independently in the study of life science, earth and space science, physical science, technology and engineering. Students will read, write, and create models and diagrams to demonstrate and apply what they learn. All 8th grade students will take the General Science MCAS exam in the spring which covers curriculum content from 6th, 7th, and 8th grades.
Materials Needed:
Pencils, a Science section in their binder, a positive attitude.
Also, helpful to have in class are highlighters, and colored pencils.
Grading and Policies:
Grades are based on points. Students will be graded on unit tests, quizzes, labs, speaking and listening, and classwork which includes a Science Packet for each unit. Active participation and positive behavior in class are traits that contribute to a productive learning environment. These traits are reflected in the report card comments. Assignments will be updated regularly for parents and students to view on the home-access center (HAC). Students are responsible for initiating make-up work that is missed due to absence.
We will participate in at least one lab activity or project for each unit of study. These science activities are wonderful learning experiences, but safe behavior is essential before and during each lab. Students will be provided with safety instructions before each lab and they will be expected to follow these instructions. If protective eyewear or gloves are needed they will be provided.
Extra Help:
I am available each Wednesday after school for extra help, with the exception of the first Wednesday of each month due to our monthly faculty meeting. I am frequently available on other afternoons as well.
Behavior:
Good behavior for all students is very important to having a productive learning environment. Our classroom expectations are as follows:
- Be prompt
- Arrive to class on time.
- Be prepared
- Have your binder with the current unit’s Science Packet.
- Have a sharp pencil.
- Have your completed homework.
- Be ready for announced quizzes and exams.
- Be productive
- Follow all instructions the first time.
- Ask for help or clarification when needed.
- Be an active participant in group activities.
- Complete your classwork to the best of your ability.
- Be polite
- Speak only when it is allowed and use a level 1 or 2 voice most of the time.
- Use positive statements only.
- Do not disrupt learning with actions or noise.
- Honor the hand’s off policy.
- Treat others as you would like to be treated.
How can parents help at home?
- Ask your child about their day at school.
- Ask them to tell you one thing they learned.
- Pick a day each week that you will check over your student’s backpack and paperwork.
- Help your child to keep their binder well organized with sections for science, math, social studies, and English.
- Pick a day each week to check the Home Access Center (HAC).
Your student’s guidance counselor is Ms. Blanca Rosa. She can assist you with any questions you may have about your student’s grades and attendance. Feel free to contact me any time with questions. I look forward to working with you and your child this year.
Sincerely,
Cecilia Detrich
[email protected]