4 Stage Cycle

First, students focus on what they already know about a topic.

Next, students explore a scientific phenomenon or concept following a sequence of classroom investigations.

Third, students reflect on their observations, record them in science journals, draw conclusions, and share their findings with others.

Finally, students apply their learning to real life situations and to other areas of the curriculum.

Students write observations and make conclusions, comment on their readings, and record their reflections.

enhances student writing skills. offers practice in organizing. NOTEBOOKING… provides an opportunity to express themselves clearly. connects science to other areas of the curriculum.

provides an opportunity to express themselves clearly connects science to other areas of the curriculum

NOTEBOOKING provides a unique form of assessment… for the student for the teacher for the parent

There are no student textbooks for Inquiry science. However the text book can be found under readings on my webpage.

That being said, a well maintained NOTEBOOK is the place your student will record learning, concepts, and vocabulary.

You and your student should review the Science notebook REGULARLY.

The Claim – the answer to the question. The Evidence – the supporting information used to arrive at the answer. The Reasoning – making the connections to explain why the claim is correct. Writing a Scientific Explanation

Scientific Explanation… A New and Necessary Skill for Students to Acquire

Scientific Explanation… A New and Necessary Skill for Students to Acquire

How Are Grades Weighted? Summative Assessments (tests, quizzes, performance assessments) = 50% Labs and Class work = 35% Homework = 15%

Assessment Retake Policy Retake only a summative assessment. 100% is the maximum score awarded any retake. Students scoring less than 70% are required to retake a summative assessment.

Why a Retake ? Essentially…it’s all about reinforcing the acquisition and mastering of skills and concepts.

Should choosing to fail be an option?

PRIOR TO A RETAKE A tutoring or conferencing session Or To reinforce concepts from the original assessment. Previous assignments must be completed

Stay in Touch… Be Informed When in doubt, check the Homework Hotline on the school website daily or my webpage. Monitor your student’s work progress and current grades on the Parent Viewer Visit my website through the Wilson School District site.

Topics Ecology and Ecosystems Magnets and Motors Science Fair Catastrophic Events

Ecology & Ecosystems Students create and observe ecocolumns, which house with a terrarium and aquarium. Photosynthesis Chesapeake Bay and the effects of pollution

Magnets & Motors What can magnets do? Building a compass Creating magnetism through electricity Making a motor Building a spinning coil motor

Science Fair Group project where each student actively participates Opportunity to take the project to the fair The Reading-Berks County Science and Engineering Fair will be held at Albright College in February. 1 st year implementing science fair as part of our middle school curriculum Excellent opportunity for students to collaborate on a science fair project!

Catastrophic Events Thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes Forecasting weather Temperature, pressure, cloud formation Earthquakes Volcanoes

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