Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common 
questions of students and parents.

1. How are students' science grades calculated?
2. What topics do you cover in each class?
3. What field trips do you take?
4. What advice do you give to help my child do well in science?
5. How can check on my child's progress in your class?

How are students' science grades calculated?

Students classwork, homework, quizzes, and projects count for 60% 
of their 
science grade and tests count for 40% of their grade.

Back to Top

What topics do you cover in each class?

Please look at the curriculum section of my webpage to see what 
is covered 
in each grade.  The State of NC sets the science curriculum for 
each grade.

Back to Top

What field trips do you take?

This varies by class, grade, and opportunity.  We try to cover 
several 
interdisciplinary fieldtrips such as a math/science field trip 
the the Smoky Mountain National Park, a trip to 
YHC Planetarium, a trip to Georgia Mountain Research and 
Education Cetner, et.

Back to Top

What advice do you give to help my child do well in science?

My science lessons almost always correspond with a lesson in the 
science 
book.  A few exceptions occur when I print out supplementary 
material for 
the kids to study from.  All information on tests is covered in 
class 
discussions, notes, or reading, most material is covered in all 
three.  

My advice is have your child always read the corresponding 
section in the 
book, ASK QUESTIONS about anything they don't understand, keep 
their science 
notebook organized, and study their notes!  My tests usually 
include a fill 
in the blank vocabulary section followed by short answer and 
possibly 
multiple choice questions.  If your student makes a low grade on 
any 
assignment, have them come to me to discuss what lead to the 
grade and what 
steps can be taken to prevent a low grade in the future.  The 
majority of 
low grades in my class come from not doing homework assignments.  
With a 
little help I feel any student is capable of mastering science 
and enjoying 
what they learn:)

Back to Top

How can check on my child's progress in your class?

All of my science classes are required to keep a science notebook 
(3 ring 
binder) with a section for notes, homework/classwork graded 
assignments, and 
graded tests.  All assignments are required to be kept in their 
notebook in 
order by date.  You can follow your child's progress simply my 
looking 
through their notebook and encourage them to keep it neat and 
organized.  
Also, you can schedule a time to talk with me and check up on 
their grades 
that way whenever you would like.

Back to Top