…Where Students Are Inspired to Be Great!!
6th Grade Science Course Syllabus 2015-2016
Ms. Karen Jacobs
jacobka@boe.richmond.k12.ga.us
Course Description and Objectives
The middle school earth science course is designed to give all students an overview of common
strands in earth science including, but not limited to, meteorology, geology, astronomy,
oceanography, resources, and human impact on the earth.
We are beginning a Geology Unit which includes the identification and formation of rocks,
minerals, and fossils. Your son/daughter will be reading, writing, and exploring various aspects
of all of these topics within the geology unit. Later units will include Weathering and Erosion,
Inside the Earth, Water, Climate and Weather, and the Solar system. I have shared the fact that
Science Fair Projects are a requirement for all middle school students. Students should begin
thinking about a possible project idea. I would love to have some unique projects this year. Think
outside the box and try to create a project like no other project at the fair! I will send home a
packet of all the information you will need to assist your child with the project which will be
assigned sometime in December/January to be finished right after the Christmas holiday, but for
now, just start thinking of ideas for a topic. Students are given homework each night from
Monday -Thursday. All students will write their homework in their agenda. In addition, I will
enter the homework on my class webpage. If your child has not received an agenda yet, please
check in his/her notebook for science homework.
Assignments and Absences
Students will receive a variety of assignments designed to enhance their learning. If a student is
absent, the student is responsible for the missed assignment. Students who have an excused
absence will be allowed five days to turn in the missed assignment. No work will be accepted
after five days.
Evaluation
Summative Assessments (Tests, Daily Question Notebook, Projects):
30%
…Where Students Are Inspired to Be Great!!
Formative Assessments (Classwork, Labs, Mini Projects, Quizzes):
Homework:
60%
10%
Expectations
Follow all school rules and policies
- Being Respectful
- Being Responsible
- Being Ready
Classroom Procedures & Expectations
1. Walk into the classroom quietly and take your seat.
2. If you are tardy, you must have a pass from either the office or teacher that kept you late.
3. If need be, sharpen your pencil or visit the wastebasket before class begins. This must be
done within the first minute of coming to class.
4. As soon as you are seated, get out all materials needed for class.
5. During assessments you are to raise your hand if you have a question and I will come to
you. Always bring a book to read after you finish your test as not everyone will finish the
test at the same time.
6. During class work, raise your hand and I will come to you and if I am with another
student, wait patiently and I will get to your question.
8. If you are absent, it is your responsibility to check with me to see which assignments you
missed. It is your responsibility to complete the assignments within five days.
9. Do not stand up, pack your book bag, clear off your desk or leave the classroom until
instructed to do so.
10. During a fire or tornado drill, remain calm and walk quietly to our designated areas.
11. During any announcements be quiet and listen until they are finished.
Course Materials
Science textbook and workbook, Georgia, Earth Science, by Prentice Hall, Science Explorer.
Notification of Assignments/Updates
Please visit the school website under the Parent Section to see a Week at a Glance for
assignments and HW for the week.
Grades for assignments will be posted within three days of the due date.
…Where Students Are Inspired to Be Great!!
Contact Information
Ms. Karen Jacobs
jacobka@boe.richmond.k12.ga.us
Conferences
In order to schedule a conference with your teachers, please contact the Guidance Office at
706-796.4992 ext 106.
I believe that teachers need to work closely with parents and students to provide a
positive atmosphere of communication and consistency. There is a quote that says,
“The start of something new brings the hope of something great. Anything is
Possible.” I will work diligently to educate your child so the first year here at
Morgan Road will be a time of growth and success.
Please sign and return this form letting me know that you and your child have discussed
the procedures for my class.
Student Name________________________ Parent Name _______________________