Name _____________________________
8th Grade Earth Science Expectations
This year, students will study the 4 major branches of earth science: Geology, Astronomy, Meteorology and Oceanography.
In order to achieve and accomplish his/her highest potential during 8th grade science, we have set forth the following
classroom procedures.
I.
Materials
A. In order to be successful, we would like each student to be prepared for class each day by bringing the
following items:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
3-ring binder (about 2”)with pockets and dividers split into the following sections
a. Notes/Classroom Activities
b. Vocabulary
c. Labs
d. PSSA prep
Single subject notebook – provided by Mr. Brown
Pens and Pencils
Colored pencils & highlighters
All completed assignments
B. Passes may not be given during class to get what you have forgotten to bring!
C. You are encouraged to review this binder with your children frequently.
II.
Homework
A. Textbook assignments
1.
Textbook assignments are given on a needed basis and will incorporate non-fiction reading
strategies. Students are required to write the question and the answer when given a
textbook homework assignment.
2.
Our science textbook is online and can be accessed at www.pearsonsuccessnet.com.
Please reference my website to learn how to use it; each student can create their own login.
3.
All Homework will count as 10% of your grade
B. Enrichment activities (projects/labs)
1.
Enrichment activities will be given on an as needed basis throughout the semester.
2.
Team policy - A project handed in one day late may result in a 10% reduction of grade for each
day after a project is due.
3.
Projects are due to the teacher on the day a student returns from an absence or team
lateness policy will go into effect.
4.
In the event that a students is absent for an extended period of time, it is his/her responsibility
make arrangements with the teacher as to when it is due.
5.
Any assignment turned in without a name may result in a reduction in points for that
assignment.
III.
Absence/Make-up Work
A. Being absent from school on any given day does not excuse a student from the assignments done in class
or given for homework that night. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements with the
teacher to complete work missed. Work that is not completed in a reasonable amount of time may result in
a grade of “0.” Students are encouraged to check my webpage for notes and/or assignments when he/she is
absent.
B. It is strongly suggested that each student find a buddy that he/she can call to receive any work that
he/she missed during school.
C. Absence due to a school related activity does not excuse a student from classroom or homework
assignments. It is the responsibility of the student to inform his/her teacher that he/she will be absent
from class prior to the event. At this time, the teacher will provide any work that will be missed that day.
This work is expected to be completed by the start of class the next day.
IV.
Extra help/making up work
A. Extra help will be given during content period.
B. Time during the school day is provided for all to students to make up work and/or received extra help.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.
V.
Grading
A. The grade for this class will be determined by points accumulated from formative assessments, test scores,
quiz scores, laboratory activities, classroom assignments, homework assignments and projects.
B. PowerGrade is updated about once a week. Parents who have access to PowerGrade should check weekly
or sign up to receive automated email updates.
C. Grades are determined by total points with Homework being worth 10% of the grade.
Points earned/points possible X 100 = science grade %.
VI.
Classroom behavior
Disrespect of any kind will NOT be tolerated. We must create an environment where everyone feels safe to
take risks and learn.
VII.
Role of the Parent
A. Help your child develop a positive attitude towards learning and realize that learning extends beyond the
classroom.
B. Encourage daily reading and proper study and work habits.
C. Show an interest in homework assignments and projects.
D. Give only the kind of assistance which enables the students to learn on their own – do not do the
assignment(s) for the student.
E. Online access to student’s grades is available. If you do not have this information, please contact the
main office.
F. Contact the teacher directly or use the 8-Red team web page found as part of the Keith Valley home
page if you have any questions about an assignment or the progress of your child in science. You can
reference this as an attachment at all times on the web page. Please feel free to contact me via email at
kbrown@hatboro-horsham.org.
My parents and I have read and understand Mr. Brown’s expectations for 8th grade earth science. This is due back on
_______________________ for 5 points.
_________________________________
Student’s signature
_______________________________
Parent/Guardian’s Signature