Welcome to Aloha Team Physical Science 8 th Grade

8th Grade Science Team Aloha Debbie Yakulis instructor Science Instructor 18 years Sixteen years at Redwood B.A. Biological sciences UCSC SJSU Single subject secondary Life Science teaching credential SJSU supplementary Physical Science teaching credential

TEAM ALOHA “working together for all students” Debbie Yakulisscience Joe Christiecore Shannon Avinacore James Conncore Carol Chun math Matt GrenierP.E. Michelle HsiehElective Eric Witter Leadership

Teaching Goals Every student Can be successful Has a safe learning environment Understands classroom expectations Learns responsibility Is motivated to learn Communicates effectively Reaches his/her potential

Class format Hands on labs Activities (Group and Individual) Reports Internet projects Tests Quizzes Homework One large assignment each semester

Grades  Percentage of total points possible  Students keep graded work in folder in classroom with a Grade Record Sheet  Student takes responsibility in tracking grade  Grades entered online about once a week  Extra credit outlines required for students making a “C” or below on tests

What’s a parent to do? Monitor grades online. (password sent home) Contact the teacher if there are consistent missing assignments Provide a quiet working environment at home for homework to be completed Make sure your student is not overextended with extracurricular activities that interfere with schoolwork

Curriculum The Basics Motion Forces Structure of Matter Earth in the Solar System Reactions Chemistry of Living Systems Periodic Table Density and Buoyancy Investigation and Experimentation

Textbook Prentice Hall Focus on Physical Science 2008 Reading and note taking guide PLEASE COVER TEXTBOOKS AT HOME!!!

On line textbook includes: Successtracker- diagnostic and benchmark assessments which provides instant remediation on mastery for students and reports of progress for teachers. Students will be assigned a password later in the semester for benchmark assessments and use of online materials. Audio textbook in MP3 format Online interactive activities, concept videos, lab videos, worksheets, interactive activities, and tutorials

State Content standards Grade Eight Focus on Physical Science Motion Forces Atomic Structure Earth Science (Earth in the Solar System) Life Science ( Chemistry of Living Things) Reactions Periodic Table Density and Buoyancy

Materials needed One dedicated science notebook for note-taking, science handouts and daily questions One 3 ring folder for keeping all graded work and grade record sheet in class Calculator (simple) Binder paper Pen and pencil

Expectations Behavioral contract (signed by parent and student) Lab expectations (signed by parent and student) All work is expected to be turned in ON TIME- One day late = 50% reduction in grade. No work accepted after one day late Exceptions “Individual Education Plans” Absences –Two days to make up work –Student responsibility to get work missed

Communication All homework on ext 176

TUTOR TIME LUNCHES BY APPOINTMENT BEFORE SCHOOL BY APPOINTMENT

LET’S HAVE A GREAT YEAR GO TEAM ALOHA!!!