Welcome to 8th Grade Science

Ms. Wassum

Be Prepared

You must bring the following to class each day: Binder with filler paper If you need paper, you do NOT need to ask –

help yourself to one or two sheets of paper Pens and/or pencils Agenda

Class Procedures

Entering Each day, there will be a ‘Do Now’ on the board When you enter, you are to take your seat and

begin the Do Now. You should not have to be reminded to do this!

If you finish early, sit quietly and wait for us to discuss

Exiting

When the bell rings, remain seated until I dismiss you

On lab days, you and your lab group are not to leave until your lab area is clean

Please take everything with you – I am here to teach you, not to clean up after you

During Class

When I need your attention, I will count down “Three – Two – One” … By the time I reach one, you should be silent and attentive

You should be engaged at all times. This means you need to be doing the activity that has been assigned.

No complaints – It is a waste of your time and mine. Activities are designed to teach you concepts and to be fun. Complaining takes away the fun!

Do NOT go behind my desk or into my desk…that is MY space. Need something? Ask.

Class Rules

RESPECT, RESPECT, RESPECT! This is my #1 Rule Respect me, respect yourself, respect each other No talking when others are talking No criticizing what others say

No food or drink in the classroom This is a safety issue

No cell phones or other electronics

All other rules from the school handbook apply to this class.

Absent?

If you are absent, please check my website. I will attach Power Point lessons and other important work. You can take notes from the Power Point. I will NOT write notes for you.

Check the crate for missed papers, worksheets, etc.

Come in after school for clarification or explanations.

Homework

Will be assigned two to three times a week Homework is designed to reinforce work

done in class. It is NEVER meant to be ‘busy work’ or punishment

One day late -20% Two or more days late = 0 Late and missing homework can adversely

affect your grade. Please put in the effort to complete it.

Topics

Life Science Defining Life Ecosystems Biotic vs Abiotic Genetics

Chemistry Chemical Reactions

NJASK Review Forensics

Tests and Quizzes

I will provide study guides for tests, but not quizzes

Please put in the effort to prepare. I am happy to help you do this. Nothing in life is accomplished without hard work and preparation.

Grading

Tests and Projects 40% Labs and Quizzes 30% Classwork 25% Homework 5%

Task…

You have 30 minutes to draw your idea of what a scientist looks like. Be prepared to explain your picture

What is a Scientist?

What is a scientist?

Awkward Nerdy Brainy Weird Not Cool Crazy

What is a Scientist?

What is a Scientist?

Male Hard Working

Female Questioning

White Thoughtful

Black Patient

Hispanic Honest

Asian Reliable

Intelligent Creative

Curious Focused

YOU!!