Science 8

2008-2009

 

Instructor:  Steve Goolsby

Phone:  557-4200

Email:    

Plan:  Monday- Friday  1:10pm-2:40

 

Textbook: Holt Science  Books C, J, K, L, and M

 

Course Description:  This course will focus on hands on and group activities, the use of science equipment, and labs all designed to support the content standards.

 

Content Standards: 

1.  Examine problems using scientific inquiry

 

2.  Integrate unifying concepts and processes in science experiences.

 

3.  Explore elements, compounds and chemical reactions

 

4.  Investigate and demonstrate practical applications of Newton’s Laws.

 

5.  Explore reproduction and the transfer of genetic material in living things.

 

6.  Examine the components of our Solar System.

 

Course Requirements and Evaluation Criteria:

1. Classwork:  Labs and group activities, Science notebook, Daily bellwork,

 

2. Projects

 

3. Tests, Quizzes, and CRT’s

 

All assignments are graded on a point system, larger assignments or tests receive higher point values.  The final distribution of points will be very close to:  Classwork 40%, Projects 20%, and Tests, quizzes, and CRT’s at 40%

 

Grade Scale: 

A = 93 – 100%

B = 85 – 92%

C = 78 – 84%

D = 70 – 77%

F  = 69% or less

 

 

 

Tentative Course Calendar

 

August:  Class orientation, course syllabus review, content standards review, student expectations, and an introduction to 8A Science.

 

September: Importance of science, scientific method, lab equipment, lab safety, physical and chemical changes, and an introduction to chemistry.

 

October:  Outcome 8-03:  Elements, element research, periodic table, atoms, parts of an atom

 

November:  Outcome 8-03:  Compounds, chemical reactions, chemical formulas and chemical reactions,

 

December:  Outcome 8-05:  use of the microscope, cells, asexual and sexual reproduction

 

January:  Outcome 8-05:  Genetics including the study of heredity, chromosomes, genes, DNA, dominance and recessive, traits, phenotypes, and phenotypes.

 

February:  Outcome 8-05  Use of Punnett’s squares, prediction of traits, and cloning.  Outcome 8-04:  Introduction to Physics

 

March:  Outcome 8-04:  Speed, velocity, acceleration, Newton’ Laws and forces.  Activities will be used to measure moving objects

 

April:  Outcome 8-06:  Our Solar System

 

May:  Outcome 8-06 will be finished.  Water rocket construction and launches.  Possible dissection (time permitting) and a short unit on water.