Compton-Drew ILC Middle School

Eighth Grade Integrated Science: Room 106

Teacher: Mrs. Mathieson

Email: diana.mathieson@slps.org

Telephone Number: (314) 652-9282

 Eighth Grade Science

Course Description:

Third quarter in science students will explore space. In the first unit, students will learn about the patterns that exist in the Solar System with an emphasis on the Earth-Sun-Moon system and seasons. In the second unit, students will learn about our solar system and the universe. Student will learn about the formation of the solar system, Earth and the solar system, Earth’s place within the universe, and gravity in the universe.

Fourth quarter in science students will explore the diversity of all life on Earth. In the first unit, student will learn the history of life on Earth including the fossil record, patterns of changes in life on Earth, and evidence of common ancestry. In the second unit, student will learn about genetic change and traits, natural selection, and wrap up the unit with speciation and extinction.

Text(s):

HMH Science Dimensions Module H: Space Science

HMH Science Dimensions Module D: The Diversity of Living Things

Course Objectives:

Space Science: Students will be able to:

• Develop and use a model of the Earth-sun-moon system to explain the cyclic patterns of lunar phases and eclipses of the sun and moon.
• Develop and use a model of the Earth-Sun system to explain the cyclical pattern of seasons, which includes Earth’s tilt and directional angle of sunlight on different areas of Earth throughout the year.
• Develop and use a model to describe the role of gravity in the motions within galaxies and the solar system.
• Analyze and interpret data to determine the scale properties of objects in the solar system.
• Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.

The Diversity of Living Things: Students will be able to:

• Analyze and interpret evidence from the fossil record to infer patterns of environmental change resulting in extinction and changes to life forms throughout the history of the Earth
• Apply scientific ideas to construct an explanation for the anatomical similarities and differences among modern organisms and between modern and fossil organisms to infer evolutionary relationships.
• Construct an explanation based on evidence that describes how genetic variations of traits in a population increase some individuals' probability of surviving and reproducing in a specific environment.
• Interpret graphical representations to support explanations of how natural selection may lead to increases and decreases of specific traits in populations over time.
• Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.

Methods of Instruction: This class will engage in multiple modes of learning to explore science concepts. As young scientists, students will engage in scientific inquiry, discussion, research, projects, presentations, labs and field experience. Students will be learning through a cooperative learning style that will employ investigative and discovery-based learning. This class emphasizes science literacy.

Assignments: The assignments consist of a daily Do Now, classwork, exit slips, homework, independent reading, and other activities.  Class work is expected to be completed on a daily basis, unless otherwise stated. Guidelines must be followed when a scoring guide accompanies an assignment. Assignments will take a variety of forms including reading articles, science podcasts, written responses, creating graphic organizers, illustrations, conducting labs, observing the world around them and then seeking to find conclusions.

Absences and Missed Assignments: In the event of an absence, it is the responsibility of the student to secure all missing assignments upon returning to school and return assignments by the given due date.  For long-term illnesses (2 days or more) parents are required to contact the Main Office at 314-652-9282 and arrange to pick up their child’s homework assignments. 

Exams/Tests/ Quizzes: Assessments will be given throughout each term.   It is important for students to come on time daily prepared to complete all assignments to the best of his or her ability. By keeping up with assignments, students will be prepared for any assessment given.

Grading Criteria:  Student’s grades will be comprised of the following:

Course Requirements: The goal for academic achievement is that all students attain an 80% or better in each of their classes.  In order to accomplish this, students should come prepared and ready to learn, be responsible for all his/her own work, and behave with respect.

Attendance Policy: All students are expected to attend school daily and to be on time to class as outlined in the Compton-Drew Student and Parent Handbook.

Homework Policy: Homework is due on the due date, which is the following day unless otherwise noted. Late work will be accepted by Friday of the week assigned. Work is late when it is not turned in on the due date and time. Students are expected to adhere to the SLPS District policy regarding homework, which is as follows:  

It is the policy of the St. Louis Public Schools that the teachers regularly assign homework that enhances the educational development of students.  Each family is asked to set side approximately ninety minutes (90) each evening for academic excellence.  At the middle school level, at least twenty minutes per core subject should be allotted for homework each evening.  

Written Assignments and Academic Misconduct: All written work submitted must be the student’s original work and conform to the guidelines provided by the teacher. This means that any substantive ideas, phrases, sentences, and/or any published ideas must be properly referenced to avoid even the appearance of plagiarism. It is the student’s responsibility to know all relevant school policies concerning plagiarism. Any documented cases of plagiarism can and will result in a failing grade.