INTRODUCTION:
 The purpose of this course is to enable students to gain a better understanding of the various topics in physical science.  You will study topics related to general physics and general chemistry.  Science is critical in our world today and it will continue to be critical in the future.  You will not only increase your knowledge in the field of physical science, but also develop an appreciation for the many ways in which science is related to you.

DOUGLAS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT SCIENCE STANDARDS:
1.  The student demonstrates the ability to design, conduct, evaluate and present a scientific investigation.
2a.  The student demonstrates an understanding that matter has characteristic properties, which are related to its structure.
2b.  The student demonstrates an understanding that energy appears in different forms and can be transferred.
2c.  The student demonstrates an understanding that interactions between matter and energy can produce changes in a system, although the total quantities of matter and energy remain the same.
5.  The student demonstrates an understanding of ways that science technology and human activity have an impact on the earth and its resources.

GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION:

1. Please bring the following to class everyday:
    a.    Completed assignments (including any make-up work)
    b.    Science Notebook (3-ring binder) with dividers and paper
    c.    Laboratory Notebook (may be purchased from the science department for $1)
    d.    #2 Pencils
    e.    Spiral Notebook
    f.    Scientific Calculator
    g.    Metric Ruler
    h.    Safety Goggles (may be purchased from the science department for $2)
    i .    Colored pencils (for labs and projects)
    j.    Dry-erase marker
    k.   A Good Attitude!!!

2.  The following are behaviors which you will be held accountable for.     ? Please:
    a. Be here.
    b. Be on time.
    c. Be prepared.
    d. Respect yourself and others.
    e. Be on task.
    f. Follow directions.
    g. Be cooperative.
    h. Enjoy beverages, food and gum somewhere else.
    i. Respect the policies and procedures designed for your optimum
safety, learning and fun.

3.    In class, you are expected to pay attention, participate in class activities, discussions, and take notes when information is being presented.  You may expect materials from lectures, labs, films, etc., to show up on tests and quizzes.

4.    You will be expected to keep your area clean and in good repair.  If there is a problem with your equipment or workspace, let me know before continuing with your project.

5.    Safety in the lab is a REQUIREMENT.  In order to participate in laboratory activities, you must pass the Laboratory Safety Test covering science laboratory safety with a score of 90% or better, and you must sign the Student Contract for Safety and Success.  Upon passing the safety test and signing the contract, you will be issued a Laboratory License.  Your license allows for 3 warning points.  If you earn more than three points, you will not be allowed to continue the current lab activity, nor will you be permitted to participate in the next lab activity.  Furthermore, you will not earn any points for either.
*****Please note that students are required to pay for equipment they
break.  Fines are posted in each classroom.

6.    You will be given six hall passes per semester.  You may leave the classroom to use the restroom, get a drink of water, or go to your locker a maximum of six times per semester.  At the end of each semester, your unused tickets may be turned in for five extra credit points each.

7.    The pace of this course is rapid, and the content is sometimes difficult (but fun) so do not allow yourself to fall behind.  Ask for help if you are having troubles.  (I love to talk science- just ask).  You can all be successful.

1.    ALL assignments must be completed in pencil only and must contain the following information:
a.    Student’s full name (first and last)
b.    Class period
c.    Assignment section/title (if not provided)

2.    Any daily work or make-up work will be turned into the teacher directly.  If an assignment is late due to an absence, the student will need to indicate this and the date of the absence in writing on the assignment.  Students are responsible for picking up the assignments on the day of his/her return.  All make-up assignments are due 48 hours after they have been picked up.

3.    HOMEWORK WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED LATE. If an assignment is not completed on the day that it is due, the student will receive a zero for the missing work.

4.    Late and make-up laboratory sessions will be offered twice each week – on day each week with Mrs. Ramsey, and one day each week with Mrs. Pride (specific days and times TBA). You must make up all lab work within one week of your absence.  You must sign up to attend a session, and if you sign up, you are expected to be there.  Late lab work may be turned in for 70% credit if you attend a session.
*****Late labs will be accepted up to 24 hours late for 50% credit (if you choose not to make up the lab).
*****Students that need to make-up a lab due to an absence will follow the same procedure as above, but will receive full credit for the 100 point assignment if it is turned in within the time limit.
 

GRADING SCALE:
100 = 90%  1
89  = 80%  2
79  = 70%  3
69  = 60%  4
59  = 0%   5