1. How is my child evaluated in science class?

Your child is evaluated by way of a 'balanced assessment.' That is, different types of assignments are evaluated by way of a point system. I use as many types of assessments as I can to ensure that every student has a chance to prove what they know in a manner they are comfortable with. For children who are deathly afraid of tests, this is a viable option. They may have trouble with test taking, but can make up the points and prove their ability by doing very well on a writing assessment or project, for example.

2. What is a "point system"?

Every assessment(graded assignment) is given a point value. Your student's score will be a point score. For example, a small quiz may be valued at 10 points. If your child earns 9 of the 10 points, his or her score is therefore a 9/10. While this may equal to a 90%, be aware that some assignments may be valued at 2 or 3 points. If a student misses 1 out of the 3 points, his or her score may appear to calculate to be a 66% but in fact, the child truly only missed 1 point. The final trimester grade will be based on the total number of points earned divided by the total points offered. Tests, quizzes, homework, etc are all weighted the same. It is the POINTS earned that is important.

3. What textbook is used?

We are using a new textbook series called Prentice Hall Science Explorer. It is a series of many smaller textbooks with accompanying CD's and online services. Take a look at your child's textbook. It is truly a unique and innovative series that we were very lucky to be able to acquire. We do not use this textbook very often but it is available as a reference. Instead, we use a number of independent reading materials and science articles.

4. What is this "Gobal Lab" I am hearing about?

The Global Laboratory project, developed by TERC in Cambridge, MA (Technical Education Research Company)and a group of teachers (myself included) was published by Kendall Hunt in the early 2000's. This curriculum includes an international network of schools, and activities designed to help students use hands on science techniques to expand their scientific investigations beyond the classroom walls and into the world. Throughout this year long study, students choose both outdoor and indoor study sites and investigate such environmental strands as Air, Water, Land and Sky. Inquiry based investigations are carried out; the students are encouraged to ask their own questions regarding what happens on their site and to develop procedures to test their hypothesis. They are then encouraged to share their research and data with other student scientists.

4. Does my child have homework every night? It seems as though sometimes s/he has "none" written in their assignment book....

There may NOT be written homework or worksheets given every night. However, it is expected that students will study their notes for at least 20 minutes on the nights they do not have written work or other assignments.

5. What days are you available for extra help?

TBA.