First Quarter Update

Mr. Barnes
email address
7th & 8th Grade Science Class

“I have VERY high expectations of you and you WILL meet them. I have lots to share with you that is interesting and fun to do. I want to get to it all! You will have jobs and I need you to be able to complete them safely and thoroughly. I recently taught in bay area Catholic High Schools and I want to help prepare to be successful in this and the next level of your education. Can’t wait to start!” -Mr. Barnes

Course Requirements

1. Daily Grades:

• notes
• minor lab activities
• participation
• quizzes
• homework and worksheets

2. Major Grades:  

• Tests
• Semester Final Exams (Don’t worry! We will review thoroughly.)
• major lab assignments and projects

3. Late Work Policy:

a. Major and daily assignments will be accepted only one day after the due date for 75% of the grade earned.
b. Assignments must be completed to receive the best possible grade for the class.
c. Failure to turn in work or demonstrating inappropriate (or unsafe) behavior will impact your high school recommendation.

4. Assignment Guidelines:

a. Follow directions ALWAYS! Points will be deducted for incomplete labs, work and projects. Work thoroughly!
b. You may use blue or black ink on assignments and notes. You may also type homework (and typing will be required for some assignments). Work efficiently!
c. Assignments done on notebook paper must be legible and have a full heading. Submitted work that is ripped, wrinkled, torn or dirty will NOT be accepted for a grade until it is completely redone and may mean that it will be graded down. Work neatly!
d. Save trees - use the back of your paper when you run out of room on the front. Work economically and ecologically!
e. Always put your name on your paper. If you are doing a group lab, it is your responsibility to make sure your name is on the paper.
f. Mr. Barnes does NOT furnish you with school supplies.

5. Procedures & Organization Tips

a. Look for directions/assignments on the board as soon as you enter the classroom so that you are prepared for the day's assignments.
b. Do NOT wait for homeroom to write down your assignments and other important information in your assignment notebook.
c. Always take out necessary supplies (pencil, paper, etc.)
d. Turn in any homework you may have.
e. Don't forget to review your planner at home on a daily basis.
f. It is your responsibility to bring your supplies to class with you EVERYDAY. You may NOT be allowed to return to your homeroom to get anything you forgot.

6. Absences/Sickness

a. It is your responsibility to ask for missed work when absent from school. In many cases, you should be able to get your make up work from a responsible lab group member or friend.
b. In the event that you cannot get your make up work from a classmate, please ask Mr. Barnes for the work you missed.
c. Generally, one day for each day of excused absence will be provided for making up work. Failure to meet the deadline will result in a zero.
d. THERE IS NO EXTRA CREDIT ALLOWED FOR MISSED WORK. In emergency situations (like extended sicknesses, funerals, etc.) you and your parents/guardians may meet with Mr. Barnes to work out an academic plan.
e. If a test was scheduled before an absence, you may still be required to take the test. If you miss a test, you will need to arrange a time with Mr. Barnes to make it up.
f. If you know ahead of time that you will miss my class, please tell me because many times, I will be able to give you your work before you are absent.
g. If you are absent on a lab day, you may or may not be able to make up the lab. It will depend on the type of lab that was done. If you cannot make up a lab, you will be given a different type of assignment that will teach you the same concepts learned in lab.

7. Supplies (Please have the following items for science class each day)

a. Pencils (preferably mechanical pencils)
b. Erasers
c. Pen (blue or black ink ONLY)
d. Red pen for corrections (THIS IS NOT OPTIONAL!)
e. White loose leaf notebook paper
f. Highlighters
g. Textbook (I will distribute these – you MUST cover & take proper care of it.)
h. Workbook (I will distribute these – you MUST cover & take proper care of it.)
i. Notebook
j. Binder to collect all of the quarter’s handouts (these may be recycled ONLY AFTER the grading term ends).

8. Miscellaneous Information

a. For Your Safety The following areas are off limits to students:

• Lab Storage Room
• Science Office
• Teacher's Desk (unless invited)
• Storage Cabinets
• Any area where you see lab equipment set up (unless given permission)

b. Failure to follow safety rules will result in loss of points or removal from lab.
c. Detentions will be given for inappropriate behavior, this includes

• Horseplay and unsafe actions in the science room
• Disrespect for me, any other staff person and/or anyone in your class
• Using hurtful language, bullying or touching anyone in a way that is unwelcome and unwanted.
• Having a cellphone, .mp3 player or other recording or personal audio device or camera WITHOUT MY EXPRESS PERMISSION