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

A well maintained NOTEBOOK is the place your student will record learning, concepts, and vocabulary.

There are no student textbooks for Inquiry science.

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

An Example of Scientific Reasoning Question: What shape is the Earth?

The Claim The Earth is round.

The Evidence During a lunar eclipse, the Earth passes between the Sun and the moon. The Earth casts a shadow over the moon. The shadow is curved.

The Reasoning The Earth must be round or it would not cast a curved shadow during a Lunar Eclipse.

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

Our Units of Study  Ecosystems  Magnets and Motors  Catastrophic Events

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. Only if the first score was less than a 93%. One retake opportunity per assessment. 93% is the maximum score awarded any retake. Students scoring less than 64% 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 must take place Previous assignments must be completed Additional assignments may be assigned

Stay in Touch… Be Informed When in doubt, check the Homework Hotline on the school website daily. Monitor your student’s work progress and current grades on the Parent Viewer Visit my website through the Wilson School District site. me… Call me… ext. 3064

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