IPS: Introduction to Physical Science Syllabus

Chris Dunham
Voice mail: 269-565-3772
Email: cdunham@lakeviewspartans.org

IPS: Introduction to Physical Science

Parents will be able to keep up to date with their child’s current unit and work
expectations by visiting http://www.protopage.com/lhsdunhamips. Also at the web
site is extra information and materials to help students who are struggling with a certain
topic or who want to know more about a certain topic.

Expectations & Grading:

Students are expected to complete assignments given in class, come to class with
a decent attitude, and be prepared with the appropriate materials. Students will be
expected to maintain a journal and keep an organized binder for class. These materials
will be graded, so be aware that they are important. Grades will be based on the
following criteria:
• Quizzes and Common Unit Assessments
• Class participation
• Homework
• Projects and assignments
• Notebook and journal organization and completeness

Final semester grade will be based on the following-

• 75% Classroom work and Participation
• 25% Common Unit Assessments

Grading Scale

98-100% A+ 88-89 B+ 78-79% C+ 68-69% D+ 0-59% E

93-97% A 83-87% B 73-77% C 63-67% D
90-92% A- 80-82% B- 70-72% C- 60-62% D
Classroom Rules: We will discuss some rules for our room the first couple of days in the
semester. The following is a list of principles that I feel are important as a basis for these
rules: perseverance, responsibility, respect, teamwork, and integrity. As the rules
associated with these principles are defined, you will receive a written copy, as will your
parents. While I feel it is important for students to be empowered to make their own
learning choices; I also feel that a classroom of chaos is a disservice to all members of the
learning community. I have an open door policy and would be glad to discuss any
agreement/disagreement about classroom rules with you or your parents.

Attendance: Much of what we do will be hands on work, group work or lecture with note
taking. If your are absent, it is your responsibility to collect missed items. I am available
before and after school. I also have a planning period during 3rd block. Most of the time
you can find me in room 120 or my office, AOF101, across the courtyard. Appointments
can be made in advance to assure you have my undivided attention. Absence from class is
not advised due to the nature of the learning expected. There are times when not being
here is expected but no one wins when you are not in class and you will be held
accountable for obtaining all information given.

Tardy Policy: It is important that all students are in class on time. If you come in late,
you will need a pass. I will allow one “oops;” after that you will be expected to make up
your lost time. The fifth tardy and each tardy beyond will result in a discipline referral to
the office per the student guidebook.

Hall Passes: It is not recommended that you leave the classroom once class starts. There
is one hall pass. When you take the pass, you must sign out of class and then sign back in
when your return. Please do not ask to leave if it is needed, just go. Students are allowed
3 passes per marking period. Each pass after that equals the amount of time missed after
school working in the classroom or around the building.
Late Assignments: This issue will be addressed on an individual basis. If there is a
problem or concern with an assignment- TALK WITH ME! I want all my students to be
successful. Data has shown that the majority of students who fail, do so because they
DON’T DO THE WORK! I don’t want to accept zeros from you and you shouldn’t
accept them from yourself.

Extra Help: I have expressed how important you success is to me. I will be available
before school every day and will be available after school most days. The best way to
ensure my full attention is to schedule a time to meet with me. If you should have
questions or concerns and you would like to e-mail me, I will check my e-mail often and
respond to you as soon as possible including weekends and after school. There will also
be a time set up for a “study table” which I encourage you to take advantage of to make
up work or receive extra help when you need it.

Substitute Policy: From time to time it will be necessary for a substitute to be here in my
place. This person is a guest in our room and I EXPECT you will behave appropriately.
Consequences for misbehavior will be much more severe then if I were here. Act like
responsible young adults and this will not be a problem.

Please keep this portion of the syllabus and return the

information page that follows.
 Information Page

We have discussed the expectations of the Introduction to Physical Science. I understand

how to get in contact of Mr. Dunham and what is expected of me in the class.

Parent signature:__________________________________________________________

Student signature:_________________________________________________________

Contact Information

Day time
phone:__________________________________________________________________

E-mail parent:____________________________________________________________

E-mail student:___________________________________________________________