1. Welcome Mrs. Papas Seventh Grade Science Kingsland Group Room 212

2. Science as Inquiry Our 7th Grade Science curriculum was designed by the National Science Resources Center of the Smithsonian Institute. This program provides many opportunities for students to engage in scientific inquiry and explore scientific phenomena firsthand. We will be exploring three units: Forces and Motion, Plate Tectonics, and Biodiversity and Interdependence. Each unit is explored using a four-stage learning cycle: - F: First, students focus on what they already know about a topic. - E: Next, students explore a scientific phenomenon or concept, following a well-structured sequence of classroom investigations - R: Third, students reflect on their observations, record them in journals, draw conclusions, and share their findings with others. - A: Finally, students apply their learning to real-life situations and to other areas of the curriculum.

3. Units of Study  Forces and Motion: The focus of this unit is the explore how different forces act on objects and that forces can change their motion. We will also see how energy can be transformed from one form to another. We will be constructing fan cars and even a roller coaster to demonstrate these concepts.  Plate Tectonics: This unit explores the physical aspects of earthquakes and volcanoes, and understanding why they happen, what causes them, and their effect on the earth.  Biodiversity and Interdependence: This unit focuses on the diversity and interdependence of organisms, creating our own pond ecosystem to study microorganisms, such as the Hydra, and macro organisms, such as the frog.

4. There is no “I” in group… A large part of our program involves our students working together in collaborative groups. They will have defined roles within their groups and are expected to participate fully and to the best of their ability. While collaboration and teamwork are very important in the science class, students are responsible for their own participation and cooperation within the group. Students will have the opportunity to work in many different groups throughout the year.

5. Taking it home… When homework is assigned, it must be present in class the day it is due to receive full credit. Students are not permitted to return to their lockers during class. If a student does not have the assignment, then he/she will not receive full credit. Half-credit will be given to assignments if they are turned in on the following day. It is the responsibility of students who are absent for any reason to find out what they missed and complete all missed assignments and tests. I ask that students check the green bins when they return back to school for any missed work.

6. Grading Students will be graded on homework, in-class activities/labs, quizzes, and tests. The grading breakdown of student averages is as follows: Homework = 10% Portfolio (In-class activities, labs, binder organization, etc.) = 30% Quizzes = 30% Tests = 30% Some labs, class activities, or projects can be graded as a test, depending on the nature of the activity.

7. 3...2...1…Contact  E-mail: apapas@nutleyschools.org  Sign Up for Remind 101  Teacher website Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or concerns. I look forward to working with all of you to make this an exciting and successful school year for your children!

8.  Go to: www.nutleyschools.orgwww.nutleyschools.org  Click:  Scroll down to:  Click:  Click: Papas, Angela The website will include frequently to find useful information such as text book access, test dates, class and homework assignments and additional resources. Teacher Website