Welcome to 7th & 8th
Grade Science

 Mr. Henry Smith
 hsmith@hffmcsd.org

Maritime Aquarium Trip Permission Slip

What will my child learn in science?

Eighth Grade General Science

Your child will explore Earth, Physical, and Life Science. Science 8
students will be introduced to lab skills and techniques while  
studying the following topics: Forces, Matter, Motion, Machines, Energy, Chemistry, Magnetism, Electricity,Organisms, Heredity, Human Systems, Earth's Surface,
and Technology. In April, students will take the New York State Eighth Grade Science Performance Exam and in May, students will take the New York State Eighth Grade Science Written Exam.    

Seventh Grade Life Science and Eighth Grade Regents Living Environment/Biology

Your child who is enrolled in these courses will study life processes and cells, introductory biochemistry, human and body systems, immunity, reproduction and development, genetics, evolution, and ecology, and other topics.Your child will complete projects, laboratory experiences, and other traditional assignments. The courses emphasize writing and laboratory design skills. The Living Environment course meets daily, with the required lab time meeting every other day [eighth grade only]. The 8th grade Living Environment / Biology Regents Examination will be given in June. Your child will also take the New York State Eighth Grade assessments in science in April (performance) and May (written).

Classroom Safety Rules and Procedures

In order to insure that your child’s learning experience is maximized, I have established classroom rules and procedures in conjunction with the school wide code of conduct/Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports[PBIS] initiatives. Notice the rules below are written as “I” statements, as each student is responsible for his/her own learning experience:

  • SAFETY FIRST! I am respectful to others (I use kind words, I keep my hands, feet, & objects to myself). I touch and use materials or equipment in the lab ONLY when I am directed to do so (note safety icons in your text – and adhere to them).
  • I activelylistenfor directions when the teacher is talking and/or modeling appropriate class and lab procedures. I also follow the teacher’s instructions immediately (i.e.; the first time they are given).
  • I cooperate with my fellow students and teacher to do and complete all assignments, activities, and projects to the best of my ability (to get the right job done and the job done right).
  • I clean up! I leave lab tables and all materials / equipment NEATER than I found them. I understand that many classes share this lab.
  • I have fun!

It is very important that your child comes to school each day prepared for his/her studies. Listed below are some of the supplies which your child will need this year (these supplies are also listed in the handbook). Please help by making sure that (s)he has all the necessary supplies as soon as possible.

  • Pencils/Pens
  • Loose-Leaf Notebook [3-ring binder] with dividers
  • Homework folder
  • Colored Pencils/Markers/Highlighters
  • Scientific Calculator
  • Ruler
  • Glue (sticks)
  • Planners (provided by the school)

For each of the four marking periods, your child will earn a numerical grade. Behavioral comments will also be included in the report (card). Your child will also receive a Progress Report midway through each of the four marking periods. Both the grade and comment will indicate how well your child is working towards meeting and/or exceeding his/her objectives. Students will earn points for each of the following four categories of assignments. The corresponding percents are determined as follows:

  • Class work 10% notes, “Do Now”
  • Homework 25% assigned 3-4 times per week; due next day; should be signed by parent/guardian
  • Conduct/Participation 15% attendance/punctuality; classroom behavior; participation in discussions and/or activities
  • Assessments 50% including tests, quizzes, projects, lab reports, and observations


Molecular Expressions Looking at cells under a "virtual microscope"
Info Please Periodic Table of Elements
Earthquakes for Kids
Experience NASA Government Guide
BioTech Life Science Dictionary
Working out Punnett Squares
Chromosome Numbers of Species
NYS Living Environment Regents

 

 

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