Welcome to 8th Grade!
Physical Science Information Letter
Mrs. Riggs-Poole
I hope you had a restful and enjoyable summer. I am confident you are looking forward to an exciting and enriching
final year of middle school science. I am thrilled about the opportunity to help you prepare for success in your high school
science classes. This syllabus is designed to help answer some questions you may have about 8th grade physical science and
the cumulative middle school science SOL test.
The class website is: http://teacherweb.com/VA/BenjaminSymsMiddleSchool/riggspoole/apt1.aspx
You will find any announcements, homework, and other important information on the class website listed above. Be sure to
check the class website daily for important communication website links, test review items, and helpful SOL support materials.
Please feel free to contact me by phone or e-mail with any additional comments or questions. These numbers are:
Classroom: (757) 850-7133; Cell: (757) 513-4513 – Before 8pm please.
kriggspoole@hampton.k12.va.us
Goals
 Approach learning with a positive attitude. 
 Make use of materials and resources to maximize your understanding of science in grades 6-8.  
 Take personal responsibility for your progress.
 Demonstrate an advanced understanding of middle school science SOL learning objectives.
 Develop critical thinking skills using collaborative groups and hands on, performance based activities.
 Maximize our understanding of the nature of science using iPads as a tool FOR learning.
Content
 Scientific Method and Scientific Investigation
 Properties of Matter
 Periodic Table of Elements
 Chemical Formulas
 Energy
 Simple Machines
 Review all 6th and 7th Grade Learning Objectives
Grading by Weight
30% Test/Projects
20% Quizzes
50% Classwork, Homework, and Labs
Standards of Learning Test
All 8th Grade students in Virginia are required to complete a final science standards assessment before exiting middle school.
This test is called the Standards of Learning Test (SOL). The middle school science test assesses students understanding of
introductory Chemistry, Force, Motion, Energy, Matter, Life Systems, Ecosystems, and Earth and Space Systems. Sixth grade,
general science, learning includes Force, Motion, Energy, Matter, Ecosystems, and Earth and Space Systems. Seventh grade,
introduction to Biology, learning includes Life Systems and Ecosystems, and eighth grade, introduction to Chemistry and
Physics, learning includes a deeper understanding of Chemistry, Force, Motion, Energy and Matter. We will have very little
time to review information from sixth and seventh grade before the SOL test in May. It is critical that you access and study the
SOL review materials provided on our class website.
Homework will be assigned to reinforce concepts learned in class. Some days we will exchange and grade the homework,
and some days I will simply check for completion. Classwork will be corrected in class, unless it is turned in for a grade. All
classwork may be used as a guide for homework and a study guide for tests.
Assignments Missed due to absence will be located in your “While You Were Out” folder. It is your responsibility to obtain
and complete all missed assignments. If you need additional time or support please ask before the assignment is due. You will
be given one day for each day you are absent to make up missed work. Tests will be announced in advance. Be sure to check
the class website all study materials. There will be short quizzes throughout the week to check for ongoing understanding.
Please sign and return the bottom portion
_____ _______ ________ _____ ________ __________________ __________ ________ ________ _______ ____________ ______ ______
I have read and understand the 8th Grade science information letter.
Students Name _________________________________________
Print Your FIRST and LAST Name Here
_______________________________________
Student Signature
[Date]
_____________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
[Date]