Integrated (Freshman) Science

Teacher: Austin RugglesEmail:

Website:

Students:I will be your guide in exploring science through this trimester. Science is very important in helping us understand the world around us. My background is in chemistry (B.S in Chemistry at UofL) and I had to a chance to work in a laboratory for two years. This allowed me to gain real world insight that will help my students. I look forward to working with each of you during this first trimester. I hope I can encourage you to be interested in this wonderful subject.

Parents/Guardians:Let me begin by saying that it is an honor to have your child in my class. Together, I believe we can be successful in helping your young student grow during this trimester. Communication is important so feel free to reach me by my email listed above or the school’s phone number (502-485-8220).

Course Description: Integrated Science is an inquiry-based approach in teaching multiple science disciplines. We will be discussing the basics of Physics, Chemistry, Earth Sciences and space. Eachsection provides challenges, investigations, and even homework questions that focus on functional use and active involvement. Students will work in cooperative learning groups to develop a variety of skills including; respect for diversity, an understanding of individual accountability within a group, elevated self-esteem, and to promote trust and risk-taking.

Materials: It is up to the student to be prepared each and every day!

Folder – Each student will be expected to keep handouts and work organized

Pen or Pencil – Teacher will not be expected to provide writing utensil

Book – Students must bring their books when required

Paper – for note-taking and writing. Can be from notebook or plain

Agenda – All Freshman students are expected to carry their school agenda with them

What To Expect: As a teacher I like to use a variety of activities/methods to help students learn the material. Some examples are:

- inquiry-based activities-group discussions- simulations

- experiments-guided instruction- reading activities

- assessments-visual projects- tutorials

Grades: The grades in this class will be based off a point system. The grades will be decided by the calculation “points earned / pointed available”. Each activity and assignment is worth different amounts of points. Grades are separated into three categories: mastery, progression, and engagement.

Grade Category / % of Grade / Types of Assignments
Mastery / 40 % / Summative Assessments such as tests, quizzes, and projects
Progression / 20 % / Practice such as homework, reflections, and study guides
Engagement / 40 % / Formative Assessments, including class work, notes, and

Warm Up: Students will complete a warm-up each day and record their answers on a weekly sheet. At end of the week it will be turned in for feedback and grading.

Reflections: A weekly reflection sheet will provide space for students to write the daily target and activities and reflect on how they did. Reflection is key in helping students find misconceptions about the content.

Investigations: A large part of this class is performing hands-on activities about the material. Students will work through laboratory activities and corresponding material.

Late Work: There will be NO LATE WORK ACCEPTED. Students will be expected to turn in all required work before the beginning of class to the CORRECT tray.

Make Up Work: It is solely the students responsibility to obtained the missed assignments. All excused absentees will be allowed to make up work, and can find it in the designed location (folders up front).

Classroom Expectations: In order to obtain the greatest benefit during this class, students will be asked to stay focused and follow the three following guidelines:

Be Respectful – treat others nicely, listen and participate, no cursing, use proper academic procedures

Be Prepared –materials for class, ready to learn (no sleeping), completed readings and/or homework

Be safe – several classroom and lab activities will require students to act in a safe, responsible manner

**I follow all school policies and their guidelines for classroom misconduct, dress code, bathroom visitation, cell phones, and violence. I try to be a fair but just teacher, and I know that our classroom will be a responsible, learning community. I also have the right to change classroom policies to meet these expectations.

Classroom Norms: Despite the use of a variety of activities and lessons to teach the material, there will be several normal routines used in the classroom. Each class will start as the student enters in the room, receives their folder from their marked drawer to the right, and turn in any homework to their tray. The student will then proceed to their assigned seat and write down the learning target for the day on the weekly sheet. After this the student will then finish the short Warm Up posted to help introduce the day’s activity. At the end of class the students will be asked to complete a short and reflective Exit Slip. After the bell tone the students will then put their folders away and leave the classroom.

The space provided below is an acknowledgement that you have read the syllabus and understand the expectations of my classroom. I look forward to working with you throughout the school year. Contact me if you have any questions.

Student Signature:______Date:______

Parent/Guardian Signature:______Date:______

Parent/Guardian email:______

Parent/Guardian Phone:______