Life Science-7th Grade
Mrs. Bradshaw
765-3314 x 343
jbrad@vcsdk12.org
Best Time to return calls is 3:30 pm
Course Objectives and Goals:
1.
To promote the use of systematic inquiry and data-based decision making
2.
To raise awareness of our connections to the natural world
3.
To encourage the use of scientific method in real life situations
4.
To foster personal growth as a life-long learner
Required Supplies:
1.
Prentice Hall Life Science Textbook: Maton et al. 1997
2.
1.5 inch binder or larger
3.
Looseleaf paper
4.
Pens and pencils
Classroom Procedures, Requirements, Expectations and
Rules:
Please see the 1st binder entry.
I recommend that parents periodically review the binder contents with
their child. All items should be
numbered consecutively. Where
papers have marked errors, has the student made corrections?
Parent Communication regarding progress:
Agenda notes, progress reports, report cards, phone calls for potential problems
and emergencies
Evaluation Methods:
Grading: Raw Score Numerical
Homework, Projects, Classwork, Binder, Journal: Approximately 67%
Quizzes, Tests: Approximately 33%
Extra Credit: Occasionally offered to all students, not done individually
Late Work: All late work loses credit.
Daily homework must be submitted by end of the school the day after it
was due or will be recorded as a zero.
Midterm and Final Exam: Comprehensive, assorted questions requiring short
answers, no essay, but may include a lab practicum
Absences / Missed Work:
Use the hotline and study buddy. Extension
based on amount of time missed.
Extra Help:
Usually Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 2:30 to 3:15.
Please inform me beforehand
Teacher Detention:
Assigned as needed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2:35-3:25.
If a student is assigned detention, a brief note will be written in their
agenda book to explain why.
Course Outline:
1. Introduction-Scientific Method
including observation and experimentation
2.
The Living Body-Metabolism from systems to cells
3.
Life Cycles-From Cells to Species
Midterm
Evaluation
4.
Genetics-Patterns of continuity and change
5.
Taxonomy-Organizing the diversity of life
6. Ecology-Recognizing
natural connections
7.
Evolution-Gradual change of a species over time
Final
Evaluation
Themes that will continue throughout the year:
1.
Science is a process
2.
Observations are a cornerstone of science
3.
Life in all its diversity still shares common characteristics