Welcome to EARJ's Middle School Science

In Middle School students are encouraged to develop awareness, knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will enable them to make environmentally sound decisions and to adopt reasonable behaviors, while they work individually and collectively as an integral part of the planet Earth.

Students are actively involved in the process of discovery and its role in the acquisition of scientific knowledge. This knowledge includes the biological, physical, and chemical sciences and their applications.

Through the sequencing of integrated topics of study and hands on materials designed to provide conceptual understanding, the science program at EARJ enables students to become literate in science and empowers them to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.

ESSENTIAL AGREEMENTS

• To develop an attitude of discovery
• To apply scientific principles in real-life situations
• To develop a systematic approach to problem solving through the use of the scientific
method
• To become knowledgeable of scientific concepts, theories, and principles
• To discover and prove scientific principles and laws through experimentation
• To develop literacy in science; to be able to read, understand, and react to science literature
and research
• To apply knowledge of scientific principles to individual and collective decision making
• To transfer knowledge and problem-solving skills to other disciplines
• To acquire a feeling for nature and a sense of "world citizenship"

STANDARDS FOR SCIENCE

Standard 1—Nature of Science
Standard 2—Interactions with Society
Standard 3—Matter and Energy
Standard 4—Forces and Motion
Standard 5—Living Systems
Standard 6—Earth and Space Systems

The Middle School Science Program has a vertically integrated curriculum. Upon the completion of the program it is expected that all students will have been exposed to the central ideas of science on three occasions. All classes encourage a hands-on approach utilizing problem solving and critical thinking skills.

Grade 6 Science

The sixth grade science curriculum is the first of three middle school science strands, consisting of earth science, life science and physical science. To meet the curriculum standards, students will be engaged in a variety of units that include an introduction to scientific inquiry, the origin of Earth, health and nutrition, cells, evolution and diversity and, human inventiveness.

Grade 7 Science

In seventh grade students will practice the scientific method as the search for answers to simple questions in several areas of science. Students learn how vulcanologist monitor the movement of the Earth’s crust; use this data to predict earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and what geologists do to study minerals and rocks. Students investigate the principles of color and light, and research how the light of stars and objects in space can reveal important information about our universe. They build rockets and discover different aerodynamic shapes. Moreover, students learn how to take care of their bodies through proper health practices and habits, and how pollution can cause illnesses.

Amongst tools used to study these topics are computer simulations of various types and Geographic Information System (GIS).

 Grade 8 Science

In eighth grade science students study how to safely apply the scientific method to increase accuracy of measurements in investigations about matter. They study forces and motion and apply the concepts to design virtual and model amusement park rides. The students learn concepts and theories of the basic constituents of matter and energy, and they investigate safer ways to maintain sustainable development on the planet.  Students are involved in an extensive study of genetics and sexual education, including the most current issues such as cloning, stem cells and their ethical implications. During the different units students apply the scientific method as a guide to the investigation using a variety of assessments.

Grading System

All three grades adopt a raw point system for calculating grades. Points for individual assignments are determined by the degree of difficulty and time required for completion.

NOTE: Students are expected to put forth their best efforts in all the tasks and activities prepared for their completion. No task is more or less important than the other. We ask that students be prepared to excel and grow both as learners and as participating global citizens.

Policy for Late Assignments

Teachers expect students to submit assignments by their due dates unless arrangements have been made in advance. Late assignments may be handed in but will have points deducted according to the table below:

Special note: Assignments handed in after the period outlined above will be accepted or not at the teacher's discretion. They will be worth 50% of their original value.

Classroom Rules

1. Arrive to class at the first bell, sit down, and read or copy the class agenda quietly.
2. Speak English at all times.
3. Follow all parts of the Middle School Handbook.
4. Show respect towards your teacher and classmates at all times.
5. Be sure to have all materials to class everyday
6. Homework will be given in accordance with the Middle School handbook.
7. Late assignments will be penalized according to the respective grade policy.
8. Please raise your hand and wait to be acknowledged by your teacher before speaking.
9. Leave the classroom only with your teachers' permission.
10. At the end of class you are dismissed by the teacher not the bell.
11. When taking a test please remember:
• You should remain silent throughout the testing period.
• If you have a question raise your hand and remain seated. Your teacher will come to you.
• Sit properly on your chair

Disciplinary Action Plan

1. Verbal or non-verbal warning.
2. Student/teacher conference during brunch or other pre-arranged time.
3. Parent contacted
4. Conference with teacher, student and principal or counselor.

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