Parent /Student Survival Information
For Mr. Medley’s 7th Grade Science Class

I.  The minimum work required in this class.
1. An acceptable science notebook.
2. The successful completion of most assignments and lab work (at least half) given during the grading period, and active participation in labs, groups and partnerships.
3. A passing grade (”D” or greater) on most of the vocabulary quizzes.

II. The weekly routine for this class.
1. Notes are taken almost everyday to go in the science notebook.
2. Assignments during the week sometimes as part of a partnership or group activity.
3. A vocabulary quiz will be taken each Friday. Students are given a maximum of 10 words on Monday and asked to spell and define 5 of the words on Fridays.

III. Useful Information about the Classroom
1. All assignments and laboratory activities will receive an ?A? grade even if the answer is wrong because it is an effort grade. But the student must try to honestly answer all of the questions to get the "A" grade. There may be additional grades added to lab assignments that includes right and wrong answers.

2. Parents can call or see me during the day at (1:30 to after school) or before school (7:00 to 7:20). You can also leave messages for me on the school phone (219 873-2057) extension 7324, school e-mail (gmedley@mcas.k12.in.us) and through this websites e-mail on the home page.

3. I am available to any of my students for help or makeup work after the school day. Students can also see me during their lunch period on Wednesdays, but they should arrange for a lunch time pass.

4. The most important tool the student has is the notebook which counts as a large effort grade and can be used on all tests and quizzes (except the vocabulary quizzes) .

5. Any student who makes an honest effort in this class will not fail.

IV. All student notebooks will be graded based on the following.
1. Papers must be attached as pages in a spiral book or folder for grading.
2. All of the notes given in class must be included (no pages missing).
3. All of the notes must be in the correct order as given in class.
4. No loose or unattached pages (assignments do not need to be included).
5. The teacher must be able to read your notes.
6. You should have only science notes in your science section of your binder notebook.

V. The Evaluation Procedure for the Grading Period.

These grades show effort and organization skills and can be done by almost every student.

1. Notebook - You must maintain the required class notebook which can be used on all tests except the vocabulary quizzes.

2. Assignments & Lab Activities - You will receive an "A" grade just for doing the work even if it is the wrong answer. There may be additional grades to a lab that includes right and wrong answers.

3. Vocabulary Quizzes - You will be given the exact words and definitions during the week. On Friday you will be asked five of the words to spell and define for a weekly quiz grade.

4. Cooperative Learning Activities - You will be asked to participate in partnership and group work.

5. Extra Credit - Must be agreed on by the teacher and counts on the effort part of the grading system.

These grades evaluate understanding and knowledge of science concepts.

1. Tests - Given after you complete a chapter or area of study.

2. Assignments & Lab Activities - This type of class work
can also have a right / wrong grade in addition to the effort grade.

3. Reports - You will pick a topic and use your own words to tell about it.

4. Projects - Special individual or group activities.

You can fail this academic side of your grade and still pass if the effort side is a "C" or greater.