North Washington Middle School
7th grade Science
Erica Baker
erica.baker@washington.kyschools.us
Course Description:
This course will provide students with the tools necessary for them to access a wealth of knowledge and
information which will contribute to an overall understanding of how and why things work like they do.
Science is able to explain the mechanics and reasons behind the daily functioning of complex systems.
Students can use this knowledge to understand new concepts, make well informed decisions, and pursue
new interests. Science also helps to provide tactile or visible proof of many facts which we read about in
books or see on the television. Upon completion of this course, the students will be fully prepared to carry
their tools and knowledge into the next level. This course is aligned to the Next Generation Science
Standards (NGSS).
Course Competencies and Enduring Skills: Use of the scientific and engineering practices is not only
intended to strengthen students’ skills in these practices, but also to develop students’ understanding of the
nature of science and engineering. Some of the enduring skills that will carry our students through their
education are:
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Asking questions and defining problems
Developing and using models
Planning and carrying out investigations
Analyzing and interpreting data
Using mathematics and computational thinking
Constructing explanations and designing solutions
Engaging in argument from evidence
Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information
Student Evaluation:
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Grading Policy: All points for tests, daily work, projects, science interactive notebooks, writing
pieces/modules will be used to determine grades. Reaching the unit learning targets will be our
primary goal.
Grading scale:
A= 90-100% B=80-89% C=70-79% D=60-69% F=0-59%
Tests: Tests will be given at the end of each unit. Every learning objective will be worth 100 points.
Test will be announced at least two days in advance. Tests may be retaken until targets are
reached.
Claim, evidence, reasoning prompts: These will be given at various times throughout the year. They
will be scored using a rubric.
Daily Work: Students are expected to participate in class discussions, group work, guided practices,
and any assignments given in class.
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Projects: These will be completed during class in small groups. Occasionally students will be
responsible for bringing in supplies needed for completion of projects.
Writing Piece/Module: Two writing pieces will be completed during 7th grade science this year. It
will include reading informational text and applying their knowledge to communicate their
understanding of the science content.
Instructional Methodology:
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Lecture Discussion – Combines the lecture with short question periods.
Cooperative Learning/Projects - Small groups of students work together to solve a problem or
complete a task.
Planning and Carrying out Investigations/Creating Models- Engaging students in scientific practices
Classroom Expectations:
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Follow directions quickly.
Raise your hand for permission to speak.
Raise your hand for permission to leave your seat.
Use appropriate and kind language.
Turn in all assignments on time.
Required Materials:
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Purple folder with pockets and clasps
Composition notebook
1 gallon Ziploc bags (off brand is fine)
1 pkg of graph paper (girls)
1 package of post its (boys)
General Information Regarding Course:
Make-up Work: If you have an excused absence, you will be given as many days as you missed plus one day
to make up your work. The student is responsible for making sure work is made up.
Tests: Tests may be retaken until targets are reached
Student and Parent/Guardian Confirmation:
We have read and understand the expectations for this course.
Student Signature: ______________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: _______________________________________
Date: __________________________________