August 13, 2015
Dear parents, guardians, and students,
Welcome to the 2015 – 2016 Shivela Middle School year!
Advanced Physical Science
The some of the topics in physical science that will be covered this year include: basic chemistry, basic
physics, Earth and the solar system. Advanced Physical Science will require students to cover subjects in more
depth, using more critical thinking and more inquiry type lessons. The course will cover all California Science
Content Standards (http://www.cde.ca.gov/be/st/ss/documents/sciencestnd.pdf ). Students will be required to
maintain a Physical Science Notebook which will contain notes, class assignments, lab work, homework
assignments, and personal reflections. Notebooks will be collect the day of tests. In physical science (prior to
tests), an assignment list will be given to students that will be turned in the day of the test with their science
notebook. Your student’s notebook will be a good source for studying for quizzes and tests! Various projects
will be assigned throughout the year.
My goal is to build a partnership between your family and myself. Together, we can create a learning
environment that really benefits your child. I encourage you to communicate with me any concerns and/or
comments you may have during the year. If needed, please contact me at school, 696-1406 Ext. 4038 or by email, twaddleton@murrieta.k12.ca.us . I will get back to you as soon as possible regarding your questions or
concerns.
Expectations & Requirements
Daily Supplies for Class Use
 1 Single Subject Spiral Notebooks-You can use multiple subject, but the entire notebook is for science.
 Plenty of # 2 pencils with erasers
 2 colored pens (for correcting)
 Hand-held pencil sharpener (optional)
 Highlighter (optional, but highly recommended)
 Self-stick notes (optional)
 Eraser (for pencil – it can be handheld or a pencil topper)
In Addition - Available for Home Use (Not required to bring to class, but can be brought)
 Scissors
 Ruler
 Glue Stick
 Protractor
 Colored Pencils
Behavior
Students will show respect to the teacher, fellow classmates, themselves, and to all their properties. Students
are responsible for their behavior. Students will be expected to:
 Come to class, on time, prepared to learn with required supplies and completed assignments
 Listen and follow directions
 Use appropriate language at all times and at a reasonable volume
 Ask questions to clarify information/direction
 Use classroom materials correctly and with care
 Keep the classroom neat and orderly
The Panther L.I.F.E. (Learning, Integrity, Friendship, and Excellence) is an important part of our school
culture. It is one of Shivela's shared goals to integrate L.I.F.E. values into all aspects of our everyday
interactions with others. The Shivela Middle School Discipline Policy is outlined in the student handbook and
posted in the classroom.
Homework
Daily homework can be expected during the school week. Assignments are to be completed by the beginning
of the next class day. Assignments will be posted on the board every Monday and a running calendar will be
posted throughout the month. Monthly calendars, listing homework, quizzes, tests, projects, and due dates are
located on my website www.mrswaddleton.com.
Absences
When a student is absent, they will be able to obtain a list of their missing work and (if needed) a copy of the
assignment. It is the student’s responsibility to get any work that was missed during their absence. Students
have one school day for each day missed to make-up any work. All quizzes and/or tests will be taken upon the
return of the student to class. If the student will be absent for a prolonged period of time, please contact the
school to make proper arrangements.
Grading Policy
Students will receive grades based on the following:
 Homework/Classwork (Practice)
 Quizzes/Projects/Labs/Tests (Assessment)
20%
80%
(Practice)
(Assessment) (Quizzes/Tests)
Up-to-date student grades will be located on AERIES.NET (on-line grade notification system used by
MVUSD). Parents and/or guardians can access their student’s grades 24/7 through AERIES.NET through the
internet. Passwords/codes will be issued by the district and given to your student to take home within the first
couple of weeks of school. If you do not receive this information, please contact the school for assistance in
obtaining this service.
Please complete and return the bottom portion of this page by Monday, Aug 17, 2015. By signing, you
and your student are verifying that the above information has been read and understood. Again, if you have any
questions, feel free to contact me at the school or by e-mail.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Waddleton
****** Please Return Only This Sheet –
The rest of the letter is yours to keep. *******
_____________________________________
______________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
Parent/Guardian (Print Name)
Date
_____________________________________
______________________________________
Student Signature
Student Name (Print Name)
Date
****Does your student have regular access to a computer?
____ yes
_____sometimes _____no