Mr. Ketler

Rm. 338

Tamanend Middle School

(267) 893-2900; Ext 6440

Course Description

Ninth Grade Science builds on many of the concepts that students learned in seventh and eighth grade. The course is about change and adaptation. The course will focus on specific topics from Earth Science, Biology, and some Ecology.

Topics Covered -Geology -Oceanography and Climate -Evolution -Botany

-Paleontology -Ecology

Requirements

-Books covered at all times

-Loose leaf paper

-Bound Marble Composition Book

-Colored Pencils

-Ruler

Communication/E-mail

·  My contact information is listed above. Students are welcome to contact me via e-mail using their Central Bucks e-mail account, as per district policy.

·  When submitting an assignment please include your last name, period (#Pd_), and relevant heading within the subject line. Example: Smith #Pd2 Journal Entry.

Online Resources

-Ketler Teacher Website http://www.cbsd.org//Domain/1663

*Use your CB username and password to access online class resources.

-Quia http://www.quia.com/pages/ketlerscience.html. (Quizzes/Surveys)

Class Expectations: Demonstrate Good Habits of Mind

Be prepared for class (Responsibility)

-Be on time to class and remain until dismissed.

-Have your binder, textbook, and writing instrument.

-Complete all homework/in-class assignments.

Practice common courtesy (Respect)

-Follow all directions the first time they are given.

-Use appropriate language and voice tone.

-Recognize personal space and other’s belongings.

-Keep your work area clean.

-Please silence your phone and only use electronic devices when permitted by

instructor.

-No Texting: It can wait.

Do your best! (Achievement)

-Work to complete/achieve goals of lesson.

-Use teachers, library, articles, and the web as a resource.

-Keep your journal and binder organized and put forth a consistent effort.

-Participate in class and online. (Have you asked a good question?)

NO FOOD OR DRINK ALLOWED IN THIS SCIENCE CLASSROOM – You never know what chemicals or bacteria are on the tables. Gum is NOT allowed.

Electronic Devices: Phone, tablets, etc. There will be opportunities to use your electronic devices during class. However, these times will be determined by the instructor. Please keep your device on silent and out of sight during instruction.

Grading System

A student’s marking period grade will be based upon the percentage of the total number of points accumulated by the student on:

90% Authentic Assessments: Includes Tests, Labs, Quizzes, Projects,

10% Homework/Classwork: Section Review, Directed Reading, Journal/Lab entries, etc.

Core & Performance Assessments

Core Assessments / Performance Assessments
Geology Core Assessment / Earthquake Epicenter Performance Assessment
Evolution Core Assessment / Peppered Moth Performance Assessment
Oceanography and Climate Core Assessment / Fishkill Performance Assessment
Botany Core Assessment
Paleontology Core Assessment Core Assessment
Ecology Core Assessment.

·  These assessments are to be given during or soon after the unit is taught. The 6 core assessment grades are to be accumulated and reported as the final exam grade. Performance assessment grades will also count toward your final grade.

Absence

·  Students are responsible for all work covered in class.

·  Students should refer to the Mr.Ketler’s teacher website, our in-class bulletin board or a classmate for work missed in class (includes notes, activities, and assigned homework).

·  Students who miss extended time should contact the teacher for

modified instructions.

·  If a student is absent on the due date of an assignment, he/she should turn in the

assignment on the first day back to school.

·  If you are going to miss a test, quiz, or assignment due date as a result of an athletic event or planned absence, it is your responsibility to complete the test or submit the assignment before you leave.

Extra Help

I am dedicated to helping all students achieve success in this class. I am available during resource or after school, by appointment, to assist any student.

Signature______Date______

(Student)