Supplies needed every day for Astronomy:

  1. Textbook: Astronomy Today, 9e
  2. Online Access:MyLab and Mastering Astronomy
  3. Folder or Binder: Keep EVERYTHING!
  4. Pen and Pencil
  5. Notebook Paper
  6. Composition Notebook
  7. Additional supplies to be
donated to the classroom:
-pack of colored pencils
Pack of markers
AND 1 item from the following list: box of quart or gallon size baggies, pack of glue sticks
There may be supplies needed for future projects throughout the year.
What I expect from you!
Be Present Be a Participant
Be Prompt Be Prepared
Be Polite Be Productive /

Grading Guidelines

Formative grades 40%

- Includes: labs, daily grades, homework,
quizzes (in class and online)
Summative grades 60%
- Includes: tests and projects ______

Teacher Information

Mrs. Merkel Room #2206

Conference Period: 1st period

School Number: 281-641- 6600

Ext. 6681

E-mail:
Course Description: This course is a scientific exploration of the human place in the universe. We study the origin and history of the Universe and the formation of the Earth and the solar system. We compare properties of the planets, the properties of light and matter, and the tools astronomers use to measure radiation from celestial sources. The course also covers exciting contemporary topics such as black holes, the expansion of the universe and the search for extraterrestrial life.
GENERAL PROCEDURES FOR ASTRONOMY:
  • Bring all assigned materials to class every day.
  • Begin bellwork as soon as you enter the classroom.
  • Appropriate lab behavior
  • Turn in assignments to designated class bin.
  • Retrieve work from class file when absent.
  • Raise your hand if you have questions and/or comments during class.
  • Rude or disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated either toward the teacher or other students.
  • Leave food or drinks in your locker.
  • Use passing period to take care of any personal business. (10/10 rule)- will limit if abused
  • Remain in class while exams are out except for emergencies/summoned from office
  • All students are expected to abide by all school/districtpolicies.
  • Use common sense!! (If I am lecturing, please do not get up and sharpen your pencil!)

Make up Work
If you know you are going to be absent in advance, request and pick up make-up work before you miss class.
If you are absent, please refer to the weekly calendar (in class) or to my web page calendar to see what assignments you missed. Then, either see me for any handouts you might have missed, or download them from my web site. If you missed notes, you are responsible for either copying notes from a classmate, or coming before/after school to copy them from me. In addition, if you are absent for a lab, you are responsible for coming in before or after school to make up the lab within one week of the date of your absence. Failure to make up the lab within one week will result in an automatic zero.
After you return from being absent, get your make-up work from the teacher.You will have the # of days missed to turn in assignment.
Remember: It is the responsibility of the student to obtain the make-up work. I may not remind you!
If you miss a test…
  1. There will be an AM and PM science department exam makeup session weekly. You are required to make up your exam within 1 week of missing.
  2. Exam reviews are a privilege. If absent on the day of a review, you will be expected to take the exam when you return to class.