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8th Grade Science
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"To pursue science is not to disparage the things of the
spirit. In fact, to pursue science rightly is to furnish the
framework on which the spirit may rise."
Vannevar Bush, in a speech, October 5, 1953
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Class Policies
Grading
Policy:
Point values
are assigned to every method of assessment. A grade sheet is
usually sent home within a week of interims and with the final grade
for the marking period which indicates the percentage of points
earned of the total possible. Students are encouraged to keep a
record of their progress.
Extra credit assignments:
Extra credit
assignments are usually announced at the time of interims. Effort
shown in completing extra credit may help in making up for points
lost in any area of assessment.
Daily Homework / Science Journal / Projects:
Daily homework includes answers to questions from reading
assignments given in the textbook, worksheets, and various other
activities needing further exploration. Homework is essential to
reinforcing what is covered in class and should show evidence of
effort. Late work may be made up by the next day, but will be
assessed a point deduction. A journal is used for current events,
personal observations of the natural world, and as a scrapbook of
pictures and information on a special subject. Projects are given to
assess a student's research skills.
These forms of
assessment generally contribute about 35% of the points for
each marking period.
Lab Reports / Performance Assessments / Classwork – Formal
reports or activity sheets are collected for each lab. Students are
evaluated on their preparation for lab class in addition to their
participation in cooperative group work. Students are required to
follow guidelines for safety which are evaluated and included in a
performance assessment each marking period. Points earned in these
areas generally contribute about 25% of the total points for
the marking period.
Quizzes and
Tests – Several quizzes per marking period and one test at the
end of each unit are given to assess for student understanding of
content covered. Science skills are evaluated on occasion through
the use of lab practicals. Points accumulate to approximately
40% of the marking period grade.
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