In Seventh Grade Science we will be learning Life Science. Life Science
includes the broad concepts of cells, genetics, evolution, ecosystems,
classification, and human body systems.

Some specific topics include photosynthesis, cell parts, cellular
respiration, cell division, DNA, heredity, natural selection, biodiversity,
food webs, Kingdoms of life, digestive, nervous, muscular and circulatory
systems.

Big ideas for the year involve components of a system, cause and effect,
structure and function, and interdependence.

We will continually be thinking scientifically by asking questions and
seeking answers through investigation and data, and stating claims that are
backed by evidence.

It is my hope that this year will be interesting, fun, challenging, and
memorable for you. I will do my best to provide you with what you need to
learn the material and if you need extra help, I will be there for you. You
will participate in a variety of types of learning, such as inquiry
investigations, hands-on, simulations, interactive, social, visual, song, and
kinesthetic.

It is important to me that we build a positive relationship of trust and
respect and a classroom in which we all feel comfortable and confident
sharing our ideas. You will find that every person at your table will be
responsible for participating and communicating to each other during our
activities. Students will be helping each other grow and learn.

My lessons will usually entail:


1. Activating students' prior knowledge and preconceptions with "mind
probes" and brainstorming.



2. Share with students what the key concepts and learning goals are. For
parents, the concepts and goals that students are learning will usually be
displayed on the Weekly Planner on my website.

3. Use inquiry to learn more about the concept. Science inquiry engages
students in relevant concepts and investigations. To begin an investigation
and promote curiosity I would administer real life predicaments or science
mysteries or demonstrate a phenomenon to be explained.

4. Metacognition- Use journaling and discussion to work out our
understandings and think about your thinking and where you are in relation to
the learning goals.

5. Formative Assessment- Use journal entries and other assessments to
check for student understanding. I will give written or oral feedback when I
check these entries.

6. More opportunities to practice, apply, review, and revise their
understanding.

7. Summative assessment- a final opportunity to demonstrate your
understanding. These vary and may include a choice of project types or tests.
Study guides are given before tests and rubrics are given before projects.



8. Students reflect on their work and revise it if necessary.

I love teaching science because it can be fun, interactive, social, creative,
and meaningful to everyone's lives. I hope you feel the same way and if
you don't I hope to change your mind!