Ms. Michelle Peterson
mmpeterson1@seattleschools.org, 206-252-8972
Rm. 205, Available: 9:40 -10:20 & 2:30-4:00pm
Bio:
Teaching is my passion, I love leading and inspiring our youth to always do their best as well as encourage them to believe in themselves and give them the tools necessary to be successful. I have spent many wonderful years in the classroom. I am currently in my sixth year teaching, and my fourth year at Denny Middle School. Prior to having my own classroom I worked for 7 years as an Instructional Assistant in the humanities classroom at Middle College High School.
I love poetry and literature that “touches the soul”, some of my favorite authors are Zora Neal Hurston, Nikki Geovanni, Mildred Taylor, Joseph Bruchac, Jerri Spinalli, and of course Louis Sanchar.
Course Description
I am excited about our journey this year within science. Students will have a year of science discovery through hands-on learning as well as keeping detailed journals of their inquiries. In accordance with our District’s standards, students will study physical, life, and earth sciences. We will study the relationship between Earth and our solar system, geological aspects of the earth, the components and forces of matter and energy, and the relationship between living organisms and the physical environment.
Standards Taught in Class
EARTH/SPACE, PHYSICAL, & LIFE SCIENCE
SCIENCE STANDARD 1. The student understands and uses scientific concepts and principles.
1.1 Uses properties to identify, describe, and categorize substances, materials, and objects, and uses characteristics to categorize living things
1.2 Recognizes the components, structure, and organization of systems and the interconnections within and among them
1.3 Understands how interactions within and among systems cause changes in matter and energy
2.1 Develops abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry
2.2 Applies science knowledge and skills to solve problems or meet challenges
3.1 Understands the nature of scientific inquiry
Assessments:
Students will be assessed in the following categories
Class work: Recorded and written analysis of experiments, practiced observations, classification, prediction, drawing conclusions, posing and answering questions, research individual and cooperative, and presentation of information to the class.
Laboratory procedure: Cooperation, collaborative learning (sharing knowledge & ideas with other members of group), following directions, self-monitoring of laboratory rules and safety regulations, cooperation and attention to purpose and task.
Tests: In class written tests and demonstrations of knowledge of scientific method & procedures.
Homework: Extensions of daily learning, observations, research, and analysis.
Grading will be based upon: Grading Scale:
Science Journals 50% 90% and above A
Participation 20% 80-89% B
Tests & Quizzes 20% 70-79% C
Homework 10% 60-69% D
Below 60% E
Science Journals account for majority of grade because they are a record of the students’ labs, analysis, and daily class work. Students will be graded on overall journaling as well as on the individual labs (Inquiries).
Required Materials include:
2 Science Journals (70 sheet spiral notebook)
Loose-leaf notebook paper
Supply of pens, pencils, erasers & personal sharpener
Box of colored pencils
Safety Contract
Our science classroom is a laboratory that contains chemicals, glassware, hot plates, and other potentially dangerous materials. Please read through the safety contract, sign, and return no later than Monday, September 11, 2006.
Respect, Responsibility, Friendship + Optimal Learning Environment
I believe and understand 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. In other words come prepared with all needed materials and a positive attitude to learn.