Students will have a year of science discovery through numerous hands-on learning activities, guest speakers and field trips. Besides science class being informative, energetic and lots of fun, students will need to be extremely organized, keeping detailed science journals of their inquires, and must be academically dedicated, in order to ensure academic success. Homework will be assigned on a weekly basis. Students will concentrate on numerous topics this year, including Natural Catastrophic Events (Storms, Earthquakes, and Volcanoes) and the Human Body, and Energy Sources and Forces of Motion.

Science Fair projects will be started before the winter holidays. This is an opportunity for students to engage in real experimentation and research independently, and to present it to their classmates and families.

Grading will be based upon:
-Science Journal (write-ups) 50%
- Participation/Lab Safety 20%
- Tests & Quizzes 20%
- Homework 10%
Grading scale:
A 90% and above
B 80% - 89%
C 70% – 79%
D 60% - 69%
E Below 60% (failing)

Science journals account for the majority of your child’ grade because they are a recording of the students’ labs, analysis, and daily class work. Students will be graded on overall journaling as well as on the individual labs/inquires.

Safety Contract
Our science classroom is a laboratory that contains chemicals, glassware, hot plates, and other potentially dangerous materials. Students have all read, written, and signed the safety contract in their Science Journal.

Required Materials
Denny Planner (used to help students monitor their homework and projects)
2 Science Journals (70 sheet spiral or composite notebook)
Supply of pens (blue/black), pencils, and erasers
Ruler

Optimal Learning Environment
In order to achieve the optimal learning environment, students need to understand and acknowledge the importance of maintaining a positive, respectable and safe classroom at all times. Students are expected to always conduct themselves with outstanding classroom etiquette, and be respectful, responsible and friendly, as described in our Dream Big – Denny Big Five. Students need to come prepared with all needed materials and a positive attitude to learn.

Standards Taught in Class (EALR Level)

The following are the Seattle School District Science Essential Academic Learning Requirements that will be covered in my class:
EALR 1: Systems
The student knows and applies scientific concepts and principles to understand the properties, structures, and changes in physical, earth/space, and living systems.
EALR 2: Inquiry
The student knows and applies the skills, processes, and nature of scientific inquiry.
EALR 3: Application
The student knows and applies science concepts and skills to develop solutions to human problems in societal contexts.

Parent Involvement:
You are always welcome in the classroom and please feel free to contact me if you have any questions/concerns, or wish to participate in any of our activities.