Marine Science
Syllabus 2014-2015
Contact Information:
Ms. Barker
Email: ltbarker@volusia.k12.fl.us
UHS Phone: (386)-968-0013
Room: 3-308
Course Description:
Welcome to Marine Science! While in this course you will learn about the different components
of ocean sciences including marine biology, ocean chemistry, history, technology, physical &
geological oceanography, marine evolution & ecology, and human impact. Class time will
incorporate lab activities ranging from traditional life science explorations to original
experimental design. The lab component presents the opportunity for students to be familiarized
with a variety of lab equipment and practices, such as microscope and slide preparation
technique and the use of probeware technology. **There will be a district EOC (End of Course
Exam) in this course.**
Grading Policy:
Students are encouraged to track their progress on Pinnacle. According to Volusia County
District policy, grades are based on the following:
 Formative Assessments: 40%
 Summative Assessments: 60%
Retake Policy for Summative Assessments:
Please refer to Section 5 of the Volusia County Schools Grading Guidelines for Secondary
Schools for further information.
Office Hours:
Tutoring is available during the first half hour of lunch Tuesday-Friday. You are encouraged to
ask for extra help and it is best to seek help as soon as you begin to feel lost or behind in class.
Attendance Policy:
Daily student attendance is extremely important to be successful in this course. Students who are
absent on the day an assignment is due, MUST submit their assignment on the next day they
return to class. If the assignment is not submitted the next day, an alternative assignment of equal
or greater rigor will be assigned with a new due date. I will be posting class documents and
information through edmodo.com & uhstitans.com/barker-lauren (please refer to these sites in
the event of an absence or to review class topics).
Tardy Policy:
Per school policy:
1st Tardy - Warning
2nd Tardy - Parent Contact
3rd Tardy - Referral to Discipline (And any additional tardies)
Course Overview:
Marking Period
Concepts
What is Marine Science?
First Quarter
History & Technology
Physical Oceanography
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter
Chemical Oceanography
Geological Oceanography
Marine Ecology
Marine Evolution of Life
Marine Ecosystems
Marine Evolution of Life
Classroom Expectations:
 Be Prompt – Arrive to class on time and be in your seat with your backpack stored away
before the bell rings.
 Be Prepared – Please bring your notebook and a pen or pencil to class every day.
 Be Polite – All students have the right to learn. Treat your fellow students as you would
like to be treated. Do not make fun of other students or use inappropriate language.
Bullying will absolutely not be tolerated.
 Be Productive – We encourage you to ask questions if you do not understand something
and need clarification or a different type of explanation. We welcome you to share things
that you may have read or seen on TV that you think are related to what we are
discussing in class.
 Be Positive –Your attitude and behavior will determine what activities we can do in
class. We want this year to be educational, memorable, and fun.
Classroom Rules:
1. All electronic devices must be turned off and put away during instructional time.
 Absolutely NO cell phones during class.
 NO ear buds in ears or visibly exposed during instruction or group work.
2. Only one student is allowed to leave the class at a time (if instruction allows). Students
are not permitted to leave during the first and last 10 minutes of class (unless for an
emergency).
3. Do not leave your seat without permission.
4. Follow all instructions promptly and respectfully.
Textbook:
Current Publishing Co. Life on an Ocean Planet by Lesley Alexander
Supply List:
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Spiral notebook (college ruled, 150 pages, 8 ½ by 11)
Pens (blue or black) and #2 Pencils
Loose leaf paper
Highlighters
Colored pencils & Glue (optional)
Go Titans!