Morris K Udall Middle School

7th Grade Science Syllabus

Ms. Clynick- Rm. 238
aclynick@isaacschools.org
http://www.msclynick.weebly.com

Welcome: I would like to welcome you to this years 7th grade science class! I look forward to a great year
ahead filled with fun and learning. This letter is to provide both the student and parent with some general
information about their science course for this year.
Course Objectives: This course is designed to give students a basic understanding of the many processes that
occur on and within the earth. The course emphasizes the problem-solving methods of science, and provides
opportunity for students to practice using these methods in a variety of laboratory experiences, activities, and
demonstrations.
General Topics:
1. Inquiry Process
Scientific Method
Scientific exploration
Analysis and conclusions
2. Earth Science
Earths structure
Plate tectonics/ Motion
Rocks and minerals
3. Space Science
The Moons phases
Motion of the Earth
The Solar System

Teaching strategies:
Lecture/class discussion
Experiments
Use of Technology

4. Life Science
Interactions with Ecosystems
Populations
Communities
5. History and Nature of Science
Human impacts on science
Nature of scientific knowledge
Compounds
6. Science in Social and Cultural Perspectives
Changes in environments
Science/technology in society

Individual work
Demonstrations
Group projects

Student activities and evaluation:

All class activities and homework assignments will be posted daily on my website:
http://kentuckyclassroom.org/missw.
Active participation
Class work
Daily Bell Work
End of unit essay
Individual projects
Current events in science
Homework
Online assignments
Study guides and handouts
Group projects
Tests/Quizzes
Grading Policy:
Grades will be based on points earned on tests, quizzes, activities, homework, in-class assignments, and
participation.
Tests will always be announced at least two days in advance.

Quizzes may or may not be announced.

Many, but not all, major projects and assignments are cooperative group efforts. No student will be
permitted to jeopardize the groups performance of an assigned task. Any student who is repeatedly
disruptive or who misuses class time/ materials will receive a zero and appropriate discipline.
Once iPads are distributed, most work will be turned in on the class website http://msclynick.weebly.com on
the Google Classroom link that will be provided through the website that is designated for the students class
period. Tests and quizzes are taken online.
Late and Make-Up Work:
In the event of an excused absence, it will be the students responsibility to ask and look for what work was
missed. All assignments and daily activities will be posted in a folder for each day of the week located at the
make- up work area. Additionally, it is the students responsibility to schedule an appropriate time to make
up tests and/ or quizzes.
Any assignment turned in late will receive deductions. The number of points deducted will depend on the
number of points possible.
Any assignment not turned in will be given a grade of zero.
Class Rules:
Be on time and prepared.
Be respectful.
Be willing.
Follow all directions and school rules.
Science Safety Statement:
Teacher efforts to minimize and manage risks in an activity are ineffective unless every student is an active
participant in the safety program. To promote a safe environment in the classroom, students are expected to:

Act in a responsible manner at all times.

Carefully follow both written and verbal instructions given by the teacher.

Learn the location of safety equipment.

Wear goggles when appropriate and when instructed to do so by the teacher.

Keep student work areas clean.

Any student action potentially endangering oneself or others cannot be tolerated. These include, but are not
limited to, the following:

Failing to wear goggles when appropriate or when instructed.

Horseplay or fooling around during an activity.

Purposefully inhaling or ingesting any substance used or made in class.

Mixing substances without the knowledge or consent of the teacher.

Pouring, splashing, or squirting substances at or on other students.

Taking chemicals, supplies, or equipment out of class without the knowledge or consent of the
teacher.
Students are NEVER encouraged to duplicate any lab activities or class demonstrations on their own due to
possible risks involved.
I will be available for planning each day from 1:15-2:05 if you should have any further questions or
concerns. My best form of contact will be e-mail at the following address:

aclynick@isaacschools.org, or our class website at http://www.msclynick.weebly.com

Welcome to 7th grade science, let the learning begin!!
Sincerely,

Ms. Clynick
Please sign below that you have read this information. *****Please submit this letter back by Friday, August
5th, 2016.
Parent or Guardian Signature

Date

Student Signature

Date