Welcome to 9th Grade Investigations in Physical Science

Peters Township H.S

2010-2011 School Year
Instructor: Mr. Compeggie
Text Book: Holt Science Spectrum, Physical Science
Each textbook must be covered and have your name inside the front cover.
Online Textbook: (website):http://my.hrw.com/
(username): student10906
(password): pths1
Introduction/ Description
Science is the search for truth through the logical sequence of observation, for
mation of hypothesis, testing by experiment, and forming conclusions to devise g
eneral principles about the workings of the natural world. The goal of science
is to understand the world around us. In this class, you will think like a scie
ntist to engage and explore the great world of science so that you can better un
derstand the world.
Topics for this course will include but need not be limited to lab safety, measu
rement, matter, atomic structure and theory, periodic table of elements, chemica
l reactions, acids, bases, characteristics of energy, maps, the planet Earth, th
e atmosphere, and renewable/nonrenewable resources. Throughout the course of the
year, lab activities will be performed.
Achieve Success
Preparation is the key to success. It is your responsibility as a student to ma
ke sure you come to class prepared to learn. It is essential you bring ALL Need
ed Materials (pencil, binder, textbook and homework etc) with you to class each
and every school day. Students who neglect to bring all materials will not be p
ermitted to leave class to get them.
Studies have shown that an effective behavioral management program is extremely
beneficial to all students in every class. Therefore, in order for you to achie
ve your highest level of achievement in science, I have set forth rules, consequ
ences and rewards which will be followed throughout the entire year. These are
posted in no specific order. Remember all school rules and policies will be enf
orced. Please make sure you read and understand all of the information in your
student handbook. Lab procedures and rules will be explained to you in class.
Classroom rules:
1.) Be in your assigned seat and working before the bell rings.
2.) Come to class prepared with ALL necessary materials.
3.) Follow instructions the first time they are given.
4.) Demonstrate respect for one another.
5.) Use appropriate language and volume when speaking.
6.) No book bags, back packs, purses, etc are to be on your desk or lap.
Consequences:
1.) Verbal warning
2.) Discussion of problem (student/teacher meeting)
3.) Phone call home
4.) Teacher detention
5.) Severe or continual disruption: Misconduct form, or sent immediately to offi
ce
Rewards:
The greatest reward is the satisfaction of a job well done!!
Good grades, Praise, Acknowledgement, Positive phone call or note home, Bonus po
ints
Assessment
You will be graded using various methods of evaluation such as projects, rubrics
, lab grades, cooperative group activity grades, homework, tests and quizzes. Y
our grade will be determined by the percentage of possible points that you earn.
The district grading scale is used. In the event you are absent during an eva
luation day, you must make up the work with in a limited time frame. The due da
te for make up work is limited to the number of days absent plus one additional
day for excused absences. If you should miss a cooperative group activity, you
will be required to make up the activity individually or an alternate assignment
when applicable. Tutoring, extra help and reviews will be available upon stude
nt request.
District Grading Scale: A = 90-100%, B = 80-89%, C = 70- 79 %, D = 60 â 69 %, F = Be
low 60%
Your grade will be based upon the points earned for each assignment compared to
the total possible points for each assignment.
Homework Policy
Homework is an effective tool in practicing and reviewing concepts taught in cla
ss. Therefore, homework will be given on a consistent basis throughout the year
. Homework will be checked without notice. When checked, homework will be wort
h a minimum of 5 points. These points will have an important effect on your ach
ievement/grade in this class. You must attempt to complete the entire assignmen
t to be given credit. Homework must be neat and legible and done according to in
structions. No ½, ¼, etc⠦ credit will be given. Late homework will generally not be a
pted. Therefore, it is your responsibility to complete every homework assignment
on time. Should a student be absent from class, it is his/her responsibility t
o make arrangements with the teacher to make up any missed work.
Binder
You will be given handouts throughout the year such as labs, structured outlines
and power point notes. Therefore, in order to stay organized, a 1 ½ inch three ri
ng binder and dividers are required for this class. Suggestions on how to proper
ly organize your binder will be provided in class.
Calculator
A scientific calculator will be required for use throughout the year.
I know you all will strive to do your absolute best in class to achieve your hig
hest potential. I look forward to having each of you in class.
Sincerely,
Mr. Compeggie
* Should a student need extra help or need to make up work, he/she should speak
to the teacher to set up a time either in school or before/after school.
I understand the expectations for myself in this course and I have shared this s
heet with my parent(s)/ guardian.
Student name (Please Print neatly)______________________________________________
____________
Student signature ___________________________________________________(Date)_____
__________
Parent/ Guardian signature _________________________________________(Date)___
____________