8TH Grade Science Syllabus
Mr. Jonathan Cooley
Room 404
Physical Science Course Description:
The goal of our course work this school year will be to meet the Objectives of the Florida
Sunshine State Standards as noted below. This will be achieved through hands-on activities
and inquiry based learning.
General Objectives:
1. The student will demonstrate a working understanding of what Science is and how it works
using the Scientific Method.
2. The student will demonstrate Safe Practices during field and laboratory investigations.
3. The student will demonstrate an understanding of the Nature of Science (scientific
knowledge, investigations and collecting data).
4. The student will demonstrate an understanding of the Structure of the Universe
(stars and galaxies).
5. The student will demonstrate an understanding of our Solar System (the sun, terrestrial
planets, large gas planets and small bodies in our solar system).
6. The student will demonstrate an understanding of Earth, Moon and Sun Systems (earth days,
years, seasons, moon phases, eclipse and tides).
7. The student will demonstrate an understanding of Space Exploration (space images, and
exploration).
8. The student will demonstrate an understanding of Matter (properties of matter, physical
and chemical changes, states of matter, substances and mixtures, atoms and the periodic table).
9. Student will demonstrate an understanding of the Cycling of Matter and Energy (photosynthesis,
cellular respiration, forms of energy and the ecosystem).
10. Student will demonstrate an understanding on how science/technology has affected modern
society and the environment.
Textbook/ Explorer:
Our textbook for this course will be Holt McDougal Science Fusion. Each student will receive
one textbook at the beginning of the year, and it will be their responsibility to keep up with
it throughout the entire school year.
A username and password for FCAT Explorer will be given to each student at the beginning of
the second quarter.
Course Materials:
• Textbook – Science Fusion (Holt McDougal)
• 1 3-Ring Notebook (2 inch)
• Loose-leaf Notebook Paper
• Pencils are preferred, however pens may be used.
• Highlighters
Course Presentation Methods:
• Daily instruction and class notes
• Projects and presentations
• Computer based learning
• Textbook assignments
• Demonstrations
• Labs
Student Expectations:
1. Come to class/lab prepared with all needed school supplies.
2. Turn in all assigned work when due.
3. All turned in work must be neat and legible
4. Participate during class discussions, labs, and discussions
5. Safety is paramount in class/lab/field. Inappropriate Behavior will not be tolerated.
Grading Scale:
90-100% = A 80-89% = B 70-79% = C
60 - 69% = D 0-59% = F
SLA Cell Phone Policy
NO CELL PHONES/ MP3 PLAYERS ARE PERMITTED IN THE CLASSROOM!
Cell phones are to remain in backpacks at all times.
When this policy is violated, the following consequences will occur:
1. The teacher will take the cell phone for the remainder of the day.
2. The office will keep the cell phone until the parent picks it up.
3. The principal will keep the cell phone until the last day of
school.
Classroom Rules:
1. Always show respect for self, others and property.
2. Come to class prepared and ready to learn.
3. Do not disrupt the learning environment of other students.
Extreme behavior: (i.e., physical violence or harassment) Referral written, student removed from class.
Parents/Guardians: Communication will be vital in order for your student to succeed in this course.
Please contact me if there is a change in your email address or phone number. I will send email
communication regarding your child’s assignments, grades and behavior. This information will also
be available on my webpage–go to the SLA website and click on my picture.
Additionally, please feel free to contact me via phone at 941-485-5551 or via email at
jonathan-cooley@sarasota.k12.fl.us
Student Leadership Academy
200 Field Avenue East
Venice, Florida 34285
941-485-5551