Welcome to Plant Science!

Plant Science feeds the world, as well as contributing to animal and human health care. In this course you will learn basic botany skills as well as laboratory techniques for growing plants, both in field and greenhouse situations. In case you were wondering, botany is the science of plant life.

The keys to Mrs. Wagner’s classroom success . . . by demonstrating the following skills you WILL be successful in this class.

Responsibility: taking charge of ones own action and learning.

Time Management: be aware and plan your time!

Team Work: Work with all people, not just a select few!

Social Skills: Learn how to interact with others – a key to success.

Paying Attention: Keep on track and you will keep your grades up.

Course Description: The three main categories of science are; 1) life science which deals with living things, 2) earth science which investigates earth and space and 3)physical science which deals with matter and energy. This course will emphasize life science, and how plant science is a vital part of our food and economic structure today. Following is a Unit Outline:

UNIT 1: SAE (SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE) Students choose individual projects to be monitored on throughout the year. Common Core: literacy SL.9-10.4,WHST.9-10.4,10.5,10.6)

UNIT 2:WORLDS OF OPPORTUNITY(Agriculture in the world)Science Standards: HS-LS2-1 &7, HS-LS4-7

UNIT 3: MINERAL SOILS(SOIL PROPERTIES, SOIL CHEMISTRY,)HS-PS-1-1,2,3,5, HS-LS2-3, LS1-3,ESS2-5

UNIT 4: SOILLESS SYSTEMS(MIXING MEDIA, HYDROPONICS)Science Standards: HS-PS1-2,LS1-3,ETS1-1

UNIT 5: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Science Standards: HS-LS1-5,7,LS2-3,LS1-2,LS1-3,LS2-8

UNIT 6: TAXONOMY (CLASSIFCATION AND NAMES) Science Standards: HS-LS4-1

UNIT 7: THE GROWING ENVIRONMENT Science Standards: HS-LS1-3,5,7, HS-LS2-8

UNIT 8: SEXUAL REPRODUCTION(IN PLANTS) Science Standards: HS-LS1-1,2,4,HS-LS3-1, LS4-3,LS2-8, HS-PS1-2

UNIT 9: ASEXUAL REPRODUCTION: HS-LS1-1

UNIT 10: SURVIVIING A HARSH ENVIRONMENT Science Standards: HS-LS1-3, LS2-1.LS2-2,LS2-8, LS4-1 LS4-3

UNIT 11: CROP PRODUCTION AND MARKETING Science Standards: hs-ess2-2,3,hs-ess3-1,2,4,HSETSS3-1

UNIT 12: CAREER LEADERSHIP, COMMUNICATION AND DOCUMENTS Standards: Common Core ELA – Literacy (see frameworks for detailed list)

Instructional Philosophy: Students will be given a variety of labs andassignments to helpthem learn the concepts presented. High quality work is expected and participation is a must. Opportunities will be given to redo work until it meets standards specified during instruction. Classroom activities will include reading, note taking, notebook organization, lab work, research, use of technology, group projects and oral presentations and problem solving. Assessment methods will include written exams, tests, and quizzes, oral and written work, reading assignments, labs and lab write-ups, individual and group projects.

Course Goals:

  • Demonstrate understanding of the scientific process and investigations. Show understanding of reporting investigations and explanations in a scientific manner
  • Be able to analyze scientific investigations for validity and reliability of results.
  • Read, understand and communicate in the language of science.
  • Use technology such as word processing, desktop publishing, online research, presentation software for class assignments.
  • Demonstrate understanding of plant processes, growth and management in large and small scale production.
  • Develop a conscience and understanding of horticulture and its impact upon our world.
  • Apply scientific concepts to everyday life

Major Course Assignments and Projects:

  1. Scientific Process and Investigations – Lab work and write ups
  2. Group Projects and presentations
  3. Research and investigation
  4. Tests and quizzes

Assessment Plan / Grading Scale
25% Assignments
25% Major Projects
25% tests and quizzes
25% labs and lab write ups / Medical Lake High School grading scale used in Skyward

Room Policies and Procedures:

Academic Integrity

All students are expected to abide by ethical academic standards. Academic dishonesty-including plagiarism, cheating or copying the work of another, using technology for illicit purposes, or any unauthorized communication between students for the purpose of gaining advantage during a test – is strictly prohibited.

Electronic Devices

No electronic devices are allowed in Mrs Wagner’s classroom. Headphones must be put away before entering the classroom. Cell phone must not be seen or heard during class without permission from the instructor.

Absences

It is the responsibility of the student to find out what work they are missing when gone. Please see the student handbook for time requirements.

Weekly Planning

A weekly outline of class activities will be provided either on the white board or projector.

Texts: CASE (CURRICULUM FOR AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE EDUCATION), Plane and Soil Science Fundamentals and Applications (Delmar/Cengage Publications)