Thinking Science

2008-2009

Welcome to Thinking Science.  This is going to be a great year.  In order for everyone to be successful in this course, there are certain guidelines that must be met. 

Instructor: Mr. Biesbrouck

Email: Click Contact Me

Phone: 623-435-6300 

Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 7:00am- 7:55am, all other times by appointment. 

Overview:  The Thinking Science course is designed to introduce you to a variety of topics in science.  We will be learning about topics such as Astronomy, Meteorology, Geology, Chemistry, Biology, and Oceanography.  We will be incorporating computer technology within these subjects.  This class is designed to teach you the scientific method and help you develop an interest and excitement about science.  We will also be working on reading strategies for the science articles we will be discussing. 

Required Materials: 

3-ring binder  

Spiral note book

Pen (black or blue ink only)  

Three-Ring Binder:  This is your notebook for this class.  This must be brought to class everyday.  Random checks for class points will be made throughout the semester.  Notebooks should have an area for bell work, daily notes, handouts, and returned work. 

Classroom Expectations: the following behaviors are expected in class at all times. 

Have respect for yourself, peers, teacher, guests and environment.

Always be prepared and on time.

Words appropriate for school.

Keep all electronic devices stored away.

School and district rules apply here. 

**If at any time these rules are violated or class is disrupted: students will be warned, assigned detention, or given a disciplinary referral.  Failure to serve an assigned detention on the day that it is scheduled will result in further action. 

Consequences:

Student Conference

Detention

Call home

Administrative Referral

** I reserve the right to skip to ANY consequence when a situation warrants such action.  

Tardy Policy

Being late to class without a pass is not acceptable.  All tardy students will be required to go to sweep.  Tardy means you are not in the room by the sound of the last bell.  Remember, sweep is not an excuse for not turning in work or not taking a test.  If you are swept, it is YOUR responsibility to see me by the end of the day or before first hour the following day to receive your work.  If you fail to see me before first hour the day following you being swept, you will not be eligible to receive the missed work or complete class assignments you missed. 
 

Grading:  Students will have class and homework assignments given throughout the year.  When a student has an excused absence from class, the student will have one day for every day absent to turn in their missed work. 

Students will be able to retake tests and quizzes up to two times for each test or quiz.  It is the student’s responsibility to schedule an appointment to retake the test or quiz.  

The grading scale is as follows: 

100% - 90% = A/1

89%   - 80% = B/2

79%   - 70% = C/3

Below 69% = F/5 

Suggestions for Success:

Students need to be in class.

Students need to complete all assignments.

Students should get help when needed.

Students need to have a positive attitude.

Parents and students should regularly check Webgrade to monitor the student’s work in class.