Course Outline:
Living Environment includes the following 5 areas of study:
1) Ecology
2) The Cell
3) Genetics
4) History of Biological Diversity
5) The Human Body
The Living Environment Science Curriculum is designed to provide the student with skills needed to perform the scientific tasks and interpret information in the field of Life Science. The successful completion of the Living Environment Curriculum is an important stepping-stone for the student’s ability to achieve success in later Regents based Sciences.
Units will be looked at in greater detail where connections will be drawn in order for the student to master the necessary information and skills in preparation for the NYS Living Environment Regents Exam. The student must be able to safely perform adequate laboratory skills throughout the year as well and is required to complete 30 Labs.
Students must complete all homework and Labs and maintain a 90 average throughout the duration of the course. We will be completing 23 chapters during the school year; therefore it is imperative that the student is dedicated to his/her assignments and studying. Let me know if you are having any difficulties immediately!
If any student falls below a 88 average and/or is missing Homework/Lab assignments, I will be contacting their parents to set up a meeting.
Grading:
Marking Period Grades will be determined by the following breakdown:
Tests and Quizzes combined 60%
Lab Write-Ups and Participation 20%
Homework 20%
Tests and Quizzes must be made up within a week of being absent.
Class Participation shall include, but not be limited to; attendance, preparation, and class behavior. Remember if you are not in class, you cannot participate. Each day you are to come prepared for class: book, binder, pen, pencil, calculator and folder.
All homework assignments are due the following class period unless otherwise specified. They are to be done neatly and must have your name, date and assignment name. Late homework is not accepted unless you have been absent.
If you are absent from class, YOU are responsible for the work missed. Call a friend for the assignment or call the school in the morning to have your assignments sent to the attendance office to be picked up at the end of the day. If you were unable to obtain the assignment before you return, you must get the assignment from me, and turn it in the following day.
If you are absent from class in which we have completed a lab, you must make up the lab as soon as possible. You can do this by arranging with me to come in after school or during one of my free periods. If you do not make up the Lab it will be counted as a 0.
Supplies:
· 3-Ring binder with loose-leaf paper (re-stock throughout the year)
· Book Cover
· 2 dozen #2 pencils and extra pencil erasers
· 1 dozen black or blue ink pens (NO fluorescent gels PLEASE!)
· 1 pocket folder
Classroom Rules:
1) Be there, Be Ready: Come to class with all of the items that you need. This includes pens, pencils, assigned homework, your science notebook and your ability and willingness to work and pay attention. Please come to class on time.
2) Be Respectful: Treat your classmates and me in a manner that you would like them/me to treat you. Your success in this class depends on the rule of common courtesy.
3) Be Responsible: Please follow all classroom rules, especially ones which involve safety. If you spot a dangerous situation, broken glass, spilled chemicals, please notify me immediately.
4) Follow Directions: Please follow all directions that involve our classroom and building procedures.
5) Ask Questions/Ask for help: Please always feel free to ask questions during the class or after class. My job is to help you! If you need extra help please let me know. I can help you during the day during a study hall or after school.
Consequences for Violation of Rules:
1st Violation: Verbal Warning
2nd Violation: T-1 and/or After School detention and Parent Phone Call
If at any time you find yourself having trouble, PLEASE, come to see me after class, after school, or during a free period. I am here to help you. Parents can reach me by calling the school at 292-5400 or emailing me at kmcginn@libertyk12.org