Syllabus-6 th Grade Advanced Earth Science
Mr. Holmes
The purpose of this syllabus is to familiarize the students with the content that will be covered during the 2015-2016 school year. It will also inform the students of how their grades will be determined throughout the school year.
Additionally, please keep in mind that this is an advanced science course , and therefore the rigor will be at a high level. Students will be challenged regularly, and will work together to problem solve, create and complete projects as well as do independent research and redelivery.
While the standards are the same as a general science class, we will go deeper into the content and incorporate discovery learning when feasible.
Major concepts covered are: Geology, Hydrology, Meteorology, and Astronomy
An example of the first 9 weeks content is listed below. A full list of the standards can be found at Georgiastandards.org
Standards/Elements (1 st 9 Weeks)
S6E5 Students will investigate the scientific view of how the earth's surface is formed.
Elements: a. Compare and contrast the Earth’s crust, mantle, and core including temperature, density, and composition. b. Investigate the composition of rocks in terms of minerals. c. Classify rocks by their process of formation. d. Describe processes that change rocks and the surface of the earth. e. Recognize that lithospheric plates constantly move and cause major geological events on the earth’s surface. f. Explain the effects of physical processes (plate tectonics, erosion, deposition, volcanic eruption, gravity) on geological features including oceans (composition, currents, and tides). g. Describe how fossils show evidence of the changing surface and climate of the Earth. h. Describe soil as consisting of weathered rocks and decomposed organic material. i. Explain the effects of human activity on the erosion of the earth's surface. j. Describe methods for conserving natural resources such as water, soil, and air.
Determining Grades
Summative-60% weight
Tests
Formative-40% weight
Mini-Projects/quizzes
Major Projects/Labs Minor lab Activities /participation
TextbookScience Explorer Class Set Only, but online text available
Teacher Announcements/Due Dates/Attachments
Weekly notifications via e mail will be sent to the e mail provided. Students will be told and or given hard copies of items and their due dates as well.

Homework
Homework will vary, and can be in the form of anything that was not completed in class, to take home assignments or projects. Adequate time is given in class to complete most assignments. A form of daily homework is expected and consists of reviewing new information and notes each night to ensure understanding, and to bring in any questions on concepts that are unclear or not understood.
Tests
When: TBA Format : Multiple Choice, Matching, True/False with Corrections, Short
Answer, Essay
Mastery
Opportunities will be provided for every student to achieve mastery of all 6 th Grade Earth
Science Standards.
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Test review and remediation will occur in class within a week, and appropriate recovery methods will be available based on individual needs.
Late Work Policy
All assignments are expected to be completed in full and on time. Students will be permitted only ONE make-up assignment per quarter (exceptions are absences, illness, or family emergencies) and must be accompanied by a note from the parent/guardian requesting the make-up. Students who fail to meet this requirement will have their efforts accurately reflected in their grade.
Parent/Guardian Grade Viewer
Infinite Campus-See front office staff for assistance/set-up if needed.
To contact me please e mail me at vholmes@paulding.k12.ga.us
***The above syllabus is subject to change. Classes will be notified when changes are made in the syllabus.*** A copy of this syllabus will be posted on my webpage for your reference.