Mr. Miller, Ms. Foy
Earth Science
2014 - 2015
Course Description: Earth Science is the study of the physical processes and characteristics of planet
Earth. There are four major divisions of earth science: geology (essentially the study of rocks and
minerals), meteorology (the study of the atmosphere and weather), oceanography (the study of the physical
characteristics of the oceans), and astronomy (the study of space). We will examine all four branches, as
well as basic scientific principles and the impact that humans have on their world.
Student Objectives: Students will demonstrate an understanding of the Virginia Standards of
Learning for Earth Science. For a complete listing of Virginia Earth Science SOL go to:
http://www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/Instruction/Science/ScienceCF-ES.doc
Tentative Schedule:
Marking Period
Topics Covered
SOLs
1st 9 weeks
Basic Scientific Principles/Maps
Plate Tectonics
Minerals
ES.1, 2
ES.7
ES.4
2nd 9 weeks
The Rock Cycle
Geologic History
Surface Processes, Groundwater
Resources
ES.5
ES.9
ES.8
ES.6
3rd 9 weeks
Oceanography
Meteorology
ES.10
ES.11, 12
4th 9 weeks
Sun, Earth, Moon Systems
Astronomy
E.S.3
ES.13
Grading:
9 week grade:
TESTS/PROJECTS
DAILY ASSIGNEMENTS/HOMEWORK
SOL QUIZZES/BELL RINGERS
3-RING BINDER CHECKS
PARTICIPATION
Semester grade: 1st NINE WEEK GRADE
2nd NINE WEEK GRADE
EXAM GRADE
Final grade:
1st SEMESTER GRADE
2nd SEMESTER GRADE
40%
20%
15%
15%
10%
40%
40%
20%
50%
50%
3-Ring Binder Checks: Students will be expected to take notes everyday and to keep them organized
in a 3 ring binder. This binder should be brought to class everyday and kept up to date. If absent, it is the
student’s responsibility to get the notes from a classmate. The binder should be divided into 3 sections; one
for notes, one for quizzes, and one for assignments. Notebook checks will be random and will account for
15% of each 9 week grade. Textbook checks may also count as a binder check.
Participation: Students are expected to be active participants in class. Solid effort will be rewarded
through the participation grade, whereas poor behavior will reflect negatively on the participation score.
Students may also be asked to complete assignments where there is no “right” or “wrong” answers (such as
writing a short story). These assignments will be given a participation grade.
Bell Ringers: Class will usually start with an SOL quiz based primarily on the previous class (though
review questions will be included). Other warm up activities may also be used to begin class and they can
be given a quiz, participation, or assignment grade.
Classroom Atmosphere:
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Each student is expected to show respect for the teacher and other members of the class by not
talking when another person is talking.
If a student wishes to be recognized, a hand should be raised first.
Students are expected to pay attention during class. Everything we do may appear on a test.
Noise Levels – The following “noise levels” will be implemented in order to ensure a proper
learning environment for various activities:
Level 0: NO talking (tests, quizzes, etc.)
Level 1: Students may talk very quietly (the classroom should feel like a movie theater or library).
Level 2: Conversation voices (students may talk quietly to their neighbors).
Students should be seated at all times unless they have express permission from the teacher.
Student Responsibility/Attendance:
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Students are responsible for all classroom assignments and knowledge.
All students are to make up all assignments missed when absent or tardy. A student is allowed
one day to complete make up work for each day s/he was absent up to a maximum of 5 days. It is
the student’s responsibility to arrange for make-up work.
Students will not be able to make up work for unexcused absences.
Assignments that are late can still earn half credit if it is less than 1 week late. Place late work in
the file folder for your class located in the back of the room.
Students are required to bring their 3 ring binder, textbook, and a pencil to class everyday.
Classroom Expectations: All school policies will be followed according to the student handbook.
The following expectations are not exceptions and are only provided as reminders.
 Cheating and plagiarism will not be accepted. All offenses will result in an automatic zero on the
assignment.
 Food and drink are not allowed in the classroom.
 The restroom and drinking fountain should be used between classes, not during instructional time.
 A student agenda is the only acceptable hall pass.
Laboratory Safety:
Laboratory work is an integral part of science class. Safety is the responsibility of each student. The
following guidelines should be followed at all times.
 Follow all instructions given by the teacher.
 Notify the teacher immediately about any safety concern.
 Do not inhale or ingest anything unless told to do so by the teacher.
 Learn the location and use of safety equipment.
 Keep your work space and classroom clean.
Required Materials:
1…1oose 1eaf paper
2…#2 pencil
Contact Information:
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Mr. Miller: amiller@kwcps.k12.va.us
Ms Foy: dfoy@kwcps.k12.va.us
school phone extension: 262
3…3 ring binder