Harrells Christian Academy
Syllabus: Seventh Grade Science
Grade Level: 7
Textbook: Science Voyages
Glencoe/McGraw Hill
Instructor: Margaret Toothman
William C. Maus Hall, Room #603
Home phone – (910) 285-2106
School phone – (910) 532-4575
Required
Materials: Writing instruments (pens and pencils)
Three ring binder with notebook paper
Course
Description:
Science is a process used to investigate the world. Developments in science and technology are ever
changing. The Seventh Grade Science student will primarily study life science. Students are expected
to attain a working knowledge of the application of the scientific approach to problem solving and basic
lab skills. The seventh grade science student will study the following:
1. The Human Body: Students will study the systems of the human body. Focus will be given to
the major function of each system and how systems work together. We will discuss the effects
of environmental influences (chemicals, smoking, alcohol, drugs, and diet) on the function
of each system.
2. Heredity and Genetics: Students will study the role of genetics and heredity in living organisms.
We will focus on the significance of genetics as related to the inheritance of characteristics.
We will discuss genetically inherited diseases and conditions.
3. Inside the Atom- Structure and Function
4. The Periodic Table and its Usefulness
5. Simple Chemistry
Major Course
Objectives:
Major course objectives as stated by the North Carolina Standard Course of Study can be located at
www.ncpublicschools.org. Abbreviations of the goals for the seventh grade science students according
to the NCSCOS are as follows:
1. Design and conduct investigations to demonstrate an understanding of scientific inquiry.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of technological design.
3. Build an understanding of the complementary nature of the human body systems.
4. Build an understanding of heredity and genetics.
Major performance expectations include the following:
1. The student will maintain an organized notebook, and will include all notes, vocabulary,
section assessment, chapter assessment and resource material assignments.
2. The student will be expected to give verbal as well as written support for all explanations
and answers.
3. Students are expected to participate in class discussions and in all lab activities.
4. Complete cooperation during lab activities will be required.
As instructional methodology, the teacher will:
1. Relate scientific methods and technologies to encourage an understanding of the learning
goals for the seventh grade science student.
2. Include real world examples and demonstrations to simplify concepts.
3. Encourage students to think and communicate critically & analytically; encourage inquiry.
4. Use DVDs and videos as instructional aids.
Course Requirements
and Grading:
1. All grades will count equally
2. Projects will count as a test grade
3. Notebooks count as test grades
4. Lab grades count as tests
5. Class participation, being attentive, cleaning up, asking questions when confused can add or delete
from zero to four points on each six weeks average
Classroom Policies
and Procedures:
The student is expected to comply with the requirements as stated in the Harrells Christian Academy
Student Handbook at all times.
A. Attendance: Attendance is required. In the event that the student is absent or is leaving school
early for any reason, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain all missed notes and
information. All assigned work will be due before leaving or upon the student’s arrival after
an absence.
B. Classroom Conduct:
1. Students should be prepared for class each day with required materials.
2. Students are expected to be respectful to their classmates and teacher
3. Students should keep hands, feet, and other objects to themselves.
4. There should be no inappropriate language, name calling, or racial slurs.
5. Students are expected to be in class and seated prior to the ringing of the tardy bell.
C. Science Safety Contract: All students and a guardian will be required to sign this science safety
contract. There will be group lab activities. Complete cooperation is necessary in order to
participate and maximize these learning opportunities. This can be a fun, hands-on learning
experience. Misbehavior such as horse-play, loud talking, or misuse of materials will not be
tolerated.
D. Sharpening Pencils: Pencils should be sharpened at the beginning of class. If a student’s pencil
breaks during class, the student may sharpen their pencil. Please be respectful. This should not
be an opportunity to disrupt the class.
E. Using the Restroom: Students will be encouraged to use the restroom between classes. If a student
needs to be during class they will be expected to ask permission from the teacher.
Failure to Comply with Classroom Policies and Procedures:
Consequences:
1. First offense: Offense will be documented and student will be given a verbal warning.
2. Second offense: Offense will be documented and parent will be notified.
3. Third offense: Offense will be documented and Friday School will be assigned.
4. Fourth offense: Offense will be documented and the student will be referred to the
administration.
Course
Schedule:
All assignments will be posted with due dates on the board. Assignment, quiz, test, project, and report
due dates will be posted in the class and on the class web page. Specific expectation requirements will
be provided along with each project and report.
Safety
Concerns:
A. Prepare for Laboratory Work:
1. Study laboratory procedures prior to class.
2. Never perform unauthorized experiments.
3. Be attentive
B. Dress for Laboratory Work:
1. Tie back long hair.
2. Do not wear loose sleeves as they tend to get in the way.
3. Wear shoes with tops.
4. Wear gloves when using chemicals that irritate or can be absorbed through skin.
C. Clean Up:
1. Consult teacher for proper disposal of used materials and specimens.
2. Wash hands thoroughly following all experiments.
3. Leave laboratory area clean and neat.
4. Write up lab reports promptly.
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In signing below, I affirm that I have read and understand this syllabus and science safety contract, and I now understand the expectations of this course. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call me. I am looking forward to a successful year.
Sincerely,
Margaret Toothman
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