Daily+Update

May 14, 2012
Students worked on the "Alien Periodic Table" activity that was brielfy begun last week. In this, they need to use all their knowledge of the PT to properly place a series of made-up elements. It's a challenging activity but w/ time, it can be completed successfully by everyone! Many students finished up the APT today and had a chance to get started on the Chem Unit Review Puzzle. All of these assignments are due Wed. I have been collecting each at the end of class. They will be given time tomorrow to complete as much of the assignments as possible. Any remaining work not completed after tomorrow will then become homework for Wed.

This week's Schedule:

5/14: Work on APT activity 5/15: Finish APT/ Chem Unit Puzzle Review 5/16: APT and Puzzle due; go over Rube Goldberg project, watch videos, and get group assignments. 5/17: Chemistry Unit Test (all of Chem - Ch.1, Ch.2, Ch.3) 5/18: Finish Rube introduction and work on project design

The following week Pds. 1,2,3 will begin to build their Rube Goldberg projects in the classroom. Pd. 5,6 will be working on some other activities during the week (including taking their 4th Quarter Notebook test)... the week after the classes will flip-flop and the Pd. 5,6 classes will be building... these projects will take us up to June 4th which is the last full day of school this year.

Assign: Chem. Unit Test on Thurs. 5/17; Notebook test for Pd. 5,6 will be the week of 5/21; Notebook test for Pd. 1,2,3 will be the week of 5/28

May 10, 2012
Students took a few minutes at the beginning of class to examine some physical examples of elements from the Periodic Table. We saw if the actual elements agreed w/ the predicted physical properties based on the type of element (metal, nonmetal, metalloid). We then checked and discussed the 9 different groups and periods that students are required to know. We discussed the reactivity and locations of these 9 sections. Definitely spend some time studying this in preparation for the test next week. Lastly, a few classes got started on the "Alien Periodic Table" and others will get started on it tomorrow or Monday. This activity will tie in much of their recently acquired knowledge about the PT.

Assign: No homework for the weekend! BUT please keep in mind there will be a unit test in Chemisry next week. Presently scheduled for Wednesday, this may get bumped back depending how early next week goes. Regardless of the day, there WILL be a test next week at some point.

May 8, 2012
Students have been working hard on a paper in class called the "Crash Course to the Periodic Table".. it is a multipage guide taking them through the various aspects of the PT. Since we are strapped for time here in Chapter 3, it is a great way for me to fine tune the content and only discuss that which I feel is important for them to know going foward into high school. The project also greatly benefits students because it is made up of 5 sections, each worth 10pts. In all it's 50pts that's super easy to get as long as the work is completed on time. I have not allowed students to work on this outside of class however tonight they are permitted to take it home to finish. Any remaining sections will be checked tomorrow.

Also, students are expected to complete a Color-Coded Periodic Table which describes and highlights the 9 important groups and periods on the PT. Students are to use their book to complete some basic research on each indicated group/period, write a description, and then color in that portion of the periodic table. In all, there will be 9 different colors used on the finished PT. Colored pencils only please! This is worth 18pts.

Lots happening in a short period of time... hang in there!

Assign: Finish any remaining sections of the "Crash Course"; Complete the "Color-Coded Peroidic Table"; Chemistry Unit Test Wed 5/16; 4th Quarter NB test (May 17 or 18)

May 2, 2012
Students viewed a series of demonstrations illustrating the gas laws. They made a "PTV" card that helps to identify the different variables in each of the gas laws. Tomorrow there will be a quiz (~40pts) on Sec. 2-1 and 2-2 in Chemistry. They may use the PTV card if needed. Also, please don't forget that any Chapter Test retakes must be completed by Friday May 4th.

Assign: Chapter 2-1, 2-2 Quiz tomorrow! (Thurs)

May(!!) 1, 2012
May's here! Time to hit the home stretch... lots to do in a short period of time... our goal is to wrap up the "book work" portion of the year by May 18th so we have time to build the Rube Goldberg projects... I will take a class period next week to discuss the project and what it will entail... its fun but frustrating at times...

Today in class we checked and went over a few homework assignments. We then examined crystalline vs. amorphous solids and how they reacted to heat. Lastly, students were given the materials needed for Sec. 2-2 on the Gas Laws. Tomorrow we will further examine the gas laws and how/why they work through a series of demonstrations. Students are responsible to complete the notes for the section and a review sheet this evening (both are in the Notebook section).

The goal through this is to have a quiz on Sec. 2-1, 2-2 on Thurs. I know it's fast paced but that's the name of the game this time of year! Friday is Music in the Parks and a large portion of the class will be absent that day... not a good day for a quiz. We'll cover what we need to in class to be prepared for the quiz by Thurs.

Assign: Sec. 2-2 notes, Sec. 2-2 Review Sheet; Chem Unit Test ~May 16; 4th Quarter NB Test ~May 17 or 18

April 30, 2012
Back to normal here finally... last week was fun but stressful and a bit chaotic! We're entering the home stretch and there is ALOT to do!

First off... any students that scored under a 74% on the recent Chapter test have the option to complete some work through the Odyssey program in order to bring up their grade. I setup a review section in the MS Science Odyssey software on the materials that were on the Chapter 1 Test. If students finish the required work, their grade will automatically be moved up to a 74%... it will take some time but worth it if you did not do well the first time! Info can be found here: [|Odyssey Login Instructions]

Today we completed the Sec. 2-1 Notes in the form of a graphic organizer. It was on solids, liquids, and gases along w/ crystalline solids, amorphous solids, fluids, and viscosity. The first section in chapter 2 is pretty short and easy, the next is a bit more difficult. We will begin Sec. 2-2 tomorrow.

Homework for the evening: Sec. 2-1 Review WS AND Sec 2-1 Completion (paragraphs) from back of packet I checked today!

April 24, 2012
Started off the week sick... sub was in on Monday. Please find the following as a bit of a list of what's going on this week.. it's a bit chaotic but hopefully you'll follow.

Tues: Science PSSA testing (missed Periods 1, 2, 3) Pd. 5,6 got back science fair grades and chapter tests Wed: I will be out again w/ a number of students attending the Special Olympics P1 and (maybe) 2 classes will be in an assembly w/ Mr. Fayerman (Holocaust survivor) All students that have class (even if only for a short while) will be given a packet of materials in class to work on for the first two (and only two) sections we will cover in Chapter 2. It is their responsibility to work on these questions in class and have them done by next Monday. A copy of the sheets will be added to my notebook section. Thurs: We will setup the Science Fair projects in the classroom and take some time to read/observe them. I will be having an open house in the evening from 6-7 for students and parents to come and check out the projects. Every student was involved in a project and some of them are outstanding! Students will get their Science Fair grade and review the Chapter test Fri: DC Trip! Please be here by 6:15am (we roll out at 6:30am)

BTW: Grades have been posted for the Chapter 1 Test. If you didn't do so well... I will be telling you on Thursday how you can bring that grade up. It will take some effort but could be worth it depending on your situation.

April 16, 2012
Today we started a multi-day group dissection of a Dogfish (small shark)... this is being done to reinforce many concepts on the upcoming Science PSSA test.

We will not meet again as a class until Thursday of the week. You have 2 worksheets due (1-4 R&R WS and Chapter Review crossword) and your Chapter 1 test will be on Friday. It is on all 4 sections we have covered in Chemistry and will be worth 100pts. I am planning on hosting an evening open house for the science fair early next week (was planning on doing it this week but schedule changes due to PSSA and your chapter test make it difficult)

Assign: 1-4 R&R WS, Chapter 1 Crossword due Thurs; Chapter 1 Test Friday

April 4, 2012
Time for break! Today we finished up the "Making Sense of Density" Lab. Whatever was not finished in class, is homework! This includes: the writeup (p. 28) on graph paper, the data table, a graph (on the back of data table), and the 3 conclusion questions on p. 28 in your book. Many finished this in class, most only need to finish a little bit. This will be collected on Tues. when you return. Please see that it is completed.

Assign: Finish "Making Sense of Density" Lab and Science Fair is Due on Wednesday 4/11!! No exceptions!

April 3, 2012
SUPER BIG REMINDER!! SCIENCE FAIR PROJECTS ARE DUE APRIL 11TH!! THAT'S NEXT WEDNESDAY!! (yes, I'm shouting.)

Enjoy break... only homework will be to finish the "Making Sense of Density" Lab if you don't get it done in class (given the amount of time you're getting you SHOULD get it done in class)

March 27, 2012
Student completed Section 1-2 notes and got started working in the lab on some density calculations.

Assign: 3rd Quarter Notebook Test is TOMORROW!! Upside down notebook game in effect... everything needs to be organized and clipped into your notebook!; Quiz on Sec. 1-1, 1-2 Friday!

March 22, 2012
Students got started on Sec. 1-1 in Chemistry by examining things like boiling points, melting points, and how temperature affects matter. They received a Sec. 1-1 outline and we completed about 1/2 of it today.

Assign: 3rd. Quarter NB test 3/28 (wed); **SF PROJECTS DUE 4/11!!**

March 20, 2012
Students completed a short intro activity to review physical vs characteristic properties.

Assign: Chemistry Chapter 1 Vocab (list found Notebook or all "key terms" on p.39 in book) Due Tomorrow! (3/20); Notebook Test 3/28; Science Fair project due 4/11

March 16, 2012
Students spent the class reviewing and preparing for their unit test on Monday. They should focus on the study guide that was handed out in class to prepare for the test. The study guide condenses the information down to a more manageable size. The test will be worth approx. 65pts and will finish off the unit we are currently working on... there are a few longer-range assignments going on including a notebook test and, of course, the science fair project. Please be on top of both of these assignments! The notebook will make a up a big part of your grade this quarter and the science fair will make up a big part of your fourth quarter grade!

Assign: Study for test on Monday; Notebook test 3/28; Science Fair due 4/11

March 15, 2012
With PSSAs over it's time to wrap up the unit we're working on... I have moved the test back to Monday and given a study guide to work on in preparation. The study guide is uploaded to the site as is a crossword puzzle. I would like the CW puzzle to be completed for Friday so we can review it.

Assign: Study Guide/Crossword Puzzle; Unit Test (~65pts) on Monday; Notebook Test 3/28; Science Fair due 4/11

March 12, 2012
Tomorrow's the first day of PSSA testing. Students will be in their homerooms for the first half of the day completing tests. The second half of the day will be made up of a full day of classes w/ abbreviated periods (~14min). We will be completing some review activities on the days following the PSSA tests to wrap up the unit we are currently working on. The plan is to take a unit test on Friday of this week after testing is completed. While it is not ideal to have a test at the end of this stressful week, it's also important that we keep to our schedule for the year and get started on the Chemistry unit as soon as possible.

Assign: None; Scientific Method/Physics Test Friday (3/16); Science Fair due 4/11! Projects should be underway or at least planned and ready to go! Deadline for changes is 3/23 (next friday)

March 1, 2012
Students finished up the data collection and (hopefully) the data analysis of the lab we started on 2/29. If the graph was not completed, please finish that as well for tomorrow. We will be meeting in the Lib comp lab to begin writing the conclusion (after you take the last PSSA vocab quiz)

Assign: PSSA Vocab quiz; finish lab graphs if necessary

February 29(?!), 2012
Happy Leap Day! We completed a lab today to gather times in order to find the speed and acceleration of a falling object. Students will have the class period tomorrow to finish collecting any data, complete any calculations, and prepare their graphs. We will be working in the computer lab Friday to complete the conclusion summary of this lab along with taking the final PSSA Vocab quiz (#7).

Assign: PSSA Vocab quiz Friday (20pts)

2/27/2012
We completed the review of the speed, velocity, and acceleration calculations today. These will be used in practice during a lab that we will be working on this week. If you did not finish the PSSA Week 7 vocab sheet, please have that done for class tomorrow. This is the last batch of words to be tested!

Assign: None

February 24, 2012
Quiz #6 down, 1 to go! I will look over your science fair proposals this weekend and get some feedback to you next week. Basically, your proposal can be 1) accepted as is 2) accepted w/ modifications 3) denied. If you handed one in and adequate effort was put into the proposal then you'll get credit. If you submitted something unacceptable (both quality of experiment and/or proposal) points will be deducted as deemed fit.

Assign: None!

February 23, 2012
We've been working on speed, velocity, and acceleration problems in class lately. You were assigned a few of these to do this evening for HW. Please make sure you show your work adequately!

Assign: PSSA Week 6 vocab quiz tomorrow!; Science Fair proposal due Friday (10pts); SVA calculations due Friday (10pts)

February 17, 2012
Happy half day and long weekend! No homework but here are the websites to do some project research if you want to: []

[|http://www.sciencebuddies.org/]

[]

[]

February 15, 2012
Students heard today about the requirements for the science fair project they will be completing from home over the next few months. The project is designed for students to show me that they understand and can apply the scientific method on their own. The paperwork received today serves to explain many of the details for the assignment. Ultimately, the final project is due 4/11 with the initial proposal due 2/22. We will be in the computer lab tomorrow to take a PSSA vocab quiz and spend some time researching and looking for project ideas.

Assign: PSSA week 5 vocab quiz (geology terms) on Thursday!

February 8, 2012
Students have been working this week on an "Impact Crater" lab. Monday they completed the lab itself, Tues we graphed the data, and today we began writing the conclusion. The conclusion can be daunting or intimidating but don't get hung up on that! We're using myaccess.com to write the conclusion. It is 4 paragraphs in length and each paragraph is broken down for you in myaccess in terms of what I am looking for. Also, in class we added 2 more lines to your graph; a Class Average Depth and a Class Average Diameter. These represent ALL the data collected on Monday and Tues (810 individual data collections). You will need this graph in writing your conclusion. We will be in the lab again tomorrow to write and the conclusion will be due by the end of the day on Monday. You can access myaccess.com from home (just be sure to know your username and password) if mroe time is needed. You are aiming to write at minimum a 4/6 but achieving a higher score will give bonus point to you. I have found this method of writing conclusions to be highly effective.

Assign: None for 2/9; PSSA vocab quiz Week 4 on Friday 2/10; Impact Crater Lab due Monday 2/13

February 3, 2012
Students quickly had their homework checked and reviewed. Setting up and completing a bar graph should have been an easier task for everyone and it seemed that it was a piece of cake. We then took the PSSA Week 3 vocab quiz. After the quiz, students were to copy the lab writeup for the "Impact Crater Lab" we'll be starting on Monday. They need to copy MY version of the lab onto graph paper as neatly as possible. This is an important step as it forces you to read, write, and interpret the steps in the lab. By copying the lab, you will have a better understanding of the material and less questions when it comes time to complete the lab itself. It is VERY important that if you did not get the lab copied after the quiz that you have it done for class on Monday. Otherwise your group will be wasting valuable classtime waiting for you to get caught up when they could otherwise be working and collecting data. I have posted a copy of the lab in the notebook section that you can use to copy this weekend.

Assign: make sure "Impact Crater Lab" is copied and good to go for Monday.

February 2, 2012
Students went over the mass of HW was assigned last night. We checked proficiency on interpreting data, making data tables, and making line graphs. Seemed like tables were what threw the most people off... tonight is the last bit of work before we get into applying all this stuff... "Creating Bar Graphs" is due tomorrow. answer the question and make the graph as indicated. Don't forget too... you have a PSSA quiz tomorrow!

Assign: "Creating Bar Graphs"; PSSA Week 3 Quiz (18pts)

January 31, 2012
Students had their homework from 1/30 checked (writing a hypothesis) and we discussed how to identify a manipulated variable and a responding variable. They then identified the MVs and RVs from their hypothesis homework. We discussed how to control variables and they were sent out of class with a sheet on controlling variables which is to be completed for HW.

Assign: Controlling Variables WS #1-5 (5pts); PSSA Week 3 Vocab quiz on Friday

January 27, 2012
Students completed a 20pt. PSSA vocab quiz on the Week 2 words. PLEASE remember we will be doing this for 7 weeks! Each week will be 18-20 points! That adds up over the course of a quarter... it's more than a major test grade! Spend a few minutes looking over the words, making flashcards, etc... Some of you are doing great and others are not preparing week after week. These quizzes should be easy "A's" b/c you have the words and the exact definitions I'll be using on the quiz! It's all in your notebook... no guessing and no trick questions! After the quiz, students recieved a copy of next week's words to work through and we then spent some time reviewing the Mythbusters experiment from 1/26 and the homework from last night as well. You were given another assignment over the weekend as well... The front and back of the paper titled "Analyzing Elements of a Sci. Method" (it's posted in the NB section the back is called "Performing an Experiment") I will be checking and reviewing that on Monday. Please see that it is done... you will need to write the # only for the steps which decribe each of the Sci. Method elements at the bottom. On the back, please ID the Manipulating and Responding variables by name.

Assign: Analyzing Elements of a Sci. Method (front and back) due Monday

January 26, 2012
We finished the SM outline from 1/25 and watched a partial episode of Mythbusters to demonstrate how the SM is used in solving a problem. Most classes finished the video in class. Some have the video writeup to do for homework and others will get to it tomorrow. All classes however, have the back of that sheet to do for homework. You are to read the short experiment summary and break it down into the various parts of a lab experiment. All classes also have a short (20pts) PSSA Week 2 vocab quiz tomorrow.

Assign: "Breakin' Down the SM" (5pts); Study for PSSA Vocab quiz (20pts)

January 24, 2012
Student completed their 4Sight Testing in the morning. During class, we reviewed the second set of PSSA words which will appear on a quiz this Friday. Students were provided a copy of Scientific Method vocabulary and key terms. They were given a few minutes of classtime to complete the definitions and any remaining words were assigned for homework. Hypothesis -> Conclusion can be found on p. 152-153 and Observing, Inferring, and Predicting can be found on p. 148. SOME words are in the glossary however a few you will need to find in the text provided. Tomorrow we will dive deeper into the Scientific Method and its steps.

Assign: Scientific Method Key Terms (due 1/25)

January 17, 2012
Students got back their Unit Test in Astronomy. It was reviewed and filed away. They also received a copy of the first installment of PSSA vocab. Each week (for the next 6-8 weeks) we'll be going over a list of words and then taking a quiz on those words at the end of the week. Please don't forget to have the first list of words done for tomorrow (though we likely won't get to them until Thurs). The notebook test is scheduled for Wednesday!

Assign: Notebook Test (81pts) on Wed.; PSSA Vocab Pt. 1

January 10, 2012
Students had the period to complete a number of assignments (all of which are homework if not completed) including the Section Outlines for 3-2, 3-3, 3-4, and 3-5 (starts on p. 103). Upon completion, they were assigned a quite massive crossword puzzle detailing many key topics and questions in preparation for the ENTIRE Astronomy unit. All in all, there are 56 questions on the crossword. Lastly, I posted a Unit Study Guide (in the Notebook at very bottom under "Extras") for anyone interested (I had a few copies of this out in class today) if you are looking for some guidance on what to go over in preparation for your unit test on Friday. Please keep in mind the unit test is worth ~110-120 points and will be followed by a Notebook Test (notebook test moved to Wed. due to Geo Bee on Tues)

Assign: Ch. 3 Section Outlines, Unit Crossword; Unit Test on Friday; Notebook Test next Wed.

January 9, 2012
Students finished making their Star Wheel to help them navigate the night sky. We then went through the notebook to clarify what is on the Unit Test on Friday.... it is ALL of the Chapters so far in Astronomy!! (1-1, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 2-1, 2-2, 2-3, 2-4, 2-5, 2-6, 3-1, 3-2, 3-3, 3-4, 3-5) Also, please keep in mind a notebook test will be occurring on Tues. 1/17. I handed out the remaining materials for Ch. 3 and students had a few short minutes to work on the outline. They will have all of class tomorrow to complete the outlines and a few review questions. Whatever is not completed tomorrow is homework. It is not "official" homework tonight.

Assign: Unit Test Friday 1/13 (110-120pts); Notebook Test Tues 1/17 (80pts)

January 4, 2012
Students spent today working in the computer lab on a Webquest investigating a variety of Deep Space object. Any portions of the webquest that were not completed today are due tomorrow.

Assign: Webquest (if incomplete); Unit Test in Astronomy next week (Thurs or Fri); Notebook test immediately following the Unit test

December 21, 2011
Today we wrapped up our Egg Drop structure lab... a few survived the 2m drop and 1 will be headed to the roof! Over break you don't have any "real" homework BUT keep in mind that pretty soon after your arrival back you'll be having a Astronomy UNit Test AND a notebook test. Combined these 2 assignments will be 200pt. Please prepare accordingly!

Assign: None! Enjoy your break and stay safe!

December 16, 2011
Students completed a Chapter 2 Test to wrap up some work before the holiday break! When we return, we will be completing an abbreviated Chapter 3 to save some time. The vocab for Chapter 3 is posted on my board and an electronic copy has been uploaded to the Notebook online. The words are to be defined and submitted on Tuesday 12/20 for 26pts.

Assign: Chapter 3 Vocab due Tues 12/20 (26pts)

December 14, 2011
Chapter test moved to Friday! Tomorrow we will do some review to remind you of the topics that are on the test. The review will NOT be in depth enough to totally prepare you for the test! You must study on your own in order to be fully prepared for the test! Includes all Sections in Chapter 2 including: Old Dead Guys, Planet motions, The Sun (layers, features, etc...), Inner Planets, Outer Planets, Comets, Asteroids, Meteors, and Extraterrestrial Life (100pts)

Assign: Sec. 2-6 R&R WS... #1-6 MUST BE WRITTEN ON A SEPARATE SHEET OF PAPER AND BE IN COMPLETE SENTENCES!! (5pts); Test Friday!

December 8, 2011
Some classes had time in class to work on the Sec. 2-5, others did not due to concert conflicts. Either way, everyone should come in tomorrow w/ the outline completed and ready to be checked over.

Assign: Sec. 2-5 outline; Chapter 2 Test (100pts) Thurs 12/15

December 1, 2011
Students viewed the film "Roving Mars" about the Spirit and Opportunity rovers on Mars. They answered a series of questions about the movie using the new clicker system.

Assign: Planet Table (finish ALL the planets!) due Friday! (20pts); Sec. 2-3, 2-4 Review WS due Monday! (5pts each)

November 30, 2011
We checked the planet table from earlier in the week to make sure it is being completed correctly! We got through the inner planets and stopped at Mars. The remainder of the planets are your responsibility to finish and they will be checked on Friday. Please also include your diagrams/drawings of each planet. The completed tables are worth 20pt. Also, Sec. 2-3, Sec. 2-4 review sheets were handed out. They are to be completed by Monday (5pts each)

Assign: Planet table to be completed by Friday! (20pts); Sec. 2-3, 2-4 Review WS due Monday! (5 pts each)

November 29, 2011
Students had a chance to work on their Planet tables in class. Whatever was not completed is NOT homework tonight. We will spend some more class time tomorrow to hopefully finish them off.

Assign: None

November 16, 2011
Students completed the video and we had some very good class discussions on how people may survive in the future. Lots of good questions! We completed a "clicker" review of Sec. 2-2 in preparation for the quiz.. study tonight!

Assign: Sec. 2-1, 2-2 Quiz! (40pts).... study your notecards! We made them for a reason!

November 15, 2011
Students had their homework checked and reviewed... we finished up the cards for Sec. 2-2 and began watching a documentary on what would happen to the earth if/when the sun burns out. We will finish the video and review for your quiz tomorrow!

Assign: Sec. 2-1, 2-2 Quiz (40pts)

November 14, 2011
We had the homework checked and made another set of cards for Sec. 2-2. We discussed the sun and how big it is in our solar system and how small it is in space compared to other stars. Very interesting comparison. Students left w/ a homework assignment which will be checked tomorrow.

Assign: Sec. 2-2 Review and Reinforce WS (5pts) due 11/15

November 11, 2011
We started off class discussing the Mythbusters episode viewed on Thursday. We then completed any remaining work from Sec. 2-1 and did some review of concepts using whiteboards. Students were allowed to get started on Sec. 2-2 notes. Any portion of the outline that was not finished in class is for homework this weekend.

Assign: Sec. 2-2 Outline (10pts); Sec. 2-1, 2-2 Quiz planned for Wed. (40pts)

November 10, 2011
I was absent for the day. Students viewed an episode of Mythbusters having to do with NASA and the moon landings.

Assign: None

November 9, 2011
Students had their homework checked, labs were submitted, and we continued to make flashcards for review.

November 8, 2011
Students began reviewing Sec. 2-1 Outline and we began making a set of flashcards which can be used to study for the quiz which will be happening next week.

Assign: Sec. 2-1 R&R WS (5pt); Lab due tomorrow!

November 7, 2011
Students had the full period to work in lab groups and conduct the "Speeding Around the Sun" experiment. They should have completed the lab setup and data collection by the end of the period. There are 6 (#1-6) conclusion questions to answer on p. 79 in the textbook. These questions MUST be answered in complete sentences! You don't need to rewrite the question on your lab but restating the question in your answer is advised.

Assign: Speeding Around the Sun lab (30-40pt) due Wed.

November 4, 2011
Students had their Sec. 2-1 outline checked and their vocab collected. Today we began a short lab on planet orbits. This is an opportunity to explain the process and importance of writing a proper lab report. This is a skill that will be practiced a number of times throughout the year and is valuable as students move through the grades and into more difficult sciences in the high school. They were responsible to get their lab paper setup and ready for data collection on Monday.

Assign: None

November 3, 2011
Students had time during the period to complete an outline for Sec. 2-1 from their book. The sections has to do with ancient astronomers, their theories, and the forces necessary to keep planets in orbit around the sun. Whatever was not completed in class is homework.

Assign: Chapter 2 Vocab and Sec. 2-1 Outline due Friday!

November 2, 2011
Students received back and reviewed both their Chapter 1 Test and Notebook Tests.

Assign: Chapter 2 Vocab (28pts) due Friday!

November 1, 2011
Students had time in class to create a set of 3 tables for use later w/ the planets. They then had time to work on their Chapter 2 vocabulary which is due by Friday (28pts.)... a word list can be found on p. 89 in the book (under "Key Terms" for each section) or online in the "Notebook" section). Those classes who did not have their notebook collected on Monday were collected today. Grades will posted as they are recorded.

Assign: Chapter 2 Vocab (28pts.) due Friday!

October 31, 2011
Students completed a 100pt Chapter 1 test today. Some periods also submitted their notebooks for review. If you were absent due to illness or storm damage, please be prepared for any makeup work when you arrive back in school.

Assign: None

October 28, 2011
We spent ~15min. using whiteboards for review of Sec. 1-1 and 1-2. Following that, we investigated the properties of dry ice by conducting a variety of demonstrations and experiments.

Assign: Chapter 1 test 10/31 (don't forget notecard); notebook collection next week

October 27, 2011
We spent the majority of the period preparing for the Chapter 1 test on Monday by reviewing Sec. 1-3 and 1-4 using the "clicker" system... please remember that your notebook needs to be in order by the end of the week and you may use 1 side of a small index card on the test! Easy, easy way to boost your grade (there will be no extra credit on the test...)

Assign: Chapter 1 test 10/31; notebook collection next week

October 26, 2011
Today we checked some homework, viewed a powerpoint project by any groups that did a project on "Man on the Moon", and completed an outline for Sec. 1-4. Section 1-4 is the last section in Chapter 1 and ends the material that will be tested on your Chapter 1 Test Monday. The chapter test will include: Sec. 1-1 on the Seasons, Sec. 1-2 on Phases Eclipses and Tides, Sec. 1-3 on Rockets and Satellites, and Sec. 1-4 on The Moon. It will be worth 100pts. You MAY use 1 side of a small index card on the test. See me for cards. This is NOT something that will happen on any other chapter tests this year so take advantage of the opportunity while you can!

Assign: Start studying for Chapter test! Notebook collection next week.

October 25, 2011
Busy day... we finished the notes for Section 1-3 on Rockets and Satellites. It was a ton of material but we got through w/ just enough time in each period... we will be completing Sec. 1-4 tomorrow and possibly starting some review... we have a lot to accomplish between now and the end of the quarter (Nov. 7th if you can believe it!) including a Chapter 1 test (100pts) and a Notebook collection (~80pts)...

Assign: Sec. 1-3 R&R WS (5pt); Chapter 1 Test on Monday 10/31; Notebook collection beginning next week! (random periods each day)

October 24, 2011
We are presently preparing to get this Chapter 1 material wrapped up to have a chapter test in the coming days. The Chapter 1 test will be on Monday October 31... notebooks will be collected from random class periods over the first few days of next week. All in all, there are about 200 points left this quarter so watch your grade b/c alot can happen!

Assign: None; start looking over test material

October 18, 2011
Students quicky reviewed the "Modeling the Moon" mini-lab from 10/17 and then were introduced to my classroom response system ("clickers")... this is an electronic system that students can use to answer review questions while providing instant feedback on how correctly they are answering them. Please do not forget to study this evening for your Sec. 1-1, 1-2 quiz! These are difficult sections and require quite a bit of memorization, understanding, and abstract thinking. The quiz tomorrow will be worth 40pts.

Assign: Study for Sec. 1-1, 1-2 Quiz (40pts)

October 17, 2011
Students saw a quick demonstration on using a gyroscope (to display gyroscopic inertia which is the force that holds the Earth at a 23.5 degree tilt)... they then completed a brief lab acitvity "Modeling the Moon" which combined much of the material from the Phases, Eclipses, and Tides.

Assign: Quiz on Sec. 1-1, 1-2 Wednesday 10/19 (~40pts)

October 14, 2011
Students had their homework checked and reviewed. We followed that up a quick review of the phases of the moon. We then completed the back of the diagram sheet and drew the "Daily Tides", "Spring Tides", and "Neap Tides".

Assign: None for weekend; quiz on Sec. 1-1, 1-2 Tuesday (40pts)

October 13, 2011
Students reviewed the phases of the moon, watched a short clip on eclipses, drew some diagrams of the eclipses, and reviewed the outline for tides. Busy day... kids left w/ 2 assignments for homework... first is a review of Sec. 1-1 via a crossword... it is on the back of the seasons diagram that was handed out last week. The other assignment is Sec. 1-2 Review WS... please do not skip #1 and 2! There should be __10__ answers down for these 2 questions alone (#1 is 6 parts, #2 is 4 parts).

Assign: Sec. 1-1 Crossword (5pts); Sec. 1-2 R&R WS (5pts)

October 12, 2011
Students completed a 6 question "Boardwork" assignment at the start of class that was intended to serve as a short review of the things we studied last week. It is important that students do their best work on everything in class because you never know when something like this will be collected for a grade! Following the boardwork, we discussed the Notebook Collection (Oct. 28) and how the notebook needs to be setup prior to collection. Please keep in mind, for this first notebook test a students' notebook must match mine exactly! Same order, etc... anything not physically clipped into the notebook will not count and anything in a pocket or folder will not count. There are over 2 weeks until the collection which leaves ample time to get the notebook perfected. I was extremely pleased to see a number of students down during 8th period already to get their notebook in order... that's what I love to see! If it was too crowded by the time you stopped down please come tomorrow or check the "Notebook" section of this webpage to find the order of all documents for your notebook....

Assign: None; Notebook Collection on Friday Oct. 28 (70-80pts)

October 7, 2011
Students had their Sec. 1-2 Outline checked and the "Eclipse" group presented their PowerPoint project. We will be taking our time going through this section as I believe it is one of the most difficult sections we will be completing this entire year. There are many things to memorize, envision, and apply. It is highly recommended to study this material as we learn it because it grows as we continue to go through the section. We focused today on Phases of the moon and completed the diagrams of the different phases.

Assign: None!

October 6, 2011
Students had their homework checked and we spent some time completing and coloring the Season's Diagram that goes with the notes for Sec. 1-1. The remainder of the period was spent working on the Sec. 1-2 Outline. Whatever is not finished is for homework.

Assign: Sec. 1-2 Outline on the Phases, Eclipses, and Tides (10pts)

October 5, 2011
I was absent due to illness. Students viewed a movie regarding the Apollo 11 mission and completed a study guide that accompanied it.

Assign: See 10/4

October 4, 2011
Students completed the notes for Sec. 1-1 in Astronomy. We reviewed the motions of the earth incl. rotation, revolution, and discussed how the seasons occur.

Assign: Sec. 1-1 Review and Reinforce WS (5pts)... don't skip #1-3! If you do, it's incomplete and therefore will be a zero.

Students worked in the computer lab to complete their presentation on their given Astronomy topic. The project is due no later than the end-of-day Tuesday and is worth 50 points.

Assign: None but make sure project is done by Tues.

September 28, 2011
Students were in the computer lab to begin working on a PowerPoint project about a topic in Astronomy. The project will take 3-4 days and ultimately will be used in class as an introduction for that topic as we work through the Astronomy curriculum. There is no homework this evening and students will meet me tomorrow in the 8th grade computer lab for class (#217).

Assign: None

September 27, 2011
Students got back their Measuring Quizzes, handed in their vocab, and finished up the remainder of the "Cosmos" activity. Tomorrow, all classes will report directly to the Library Computer Lab where we will behind a multi-day projects as an introduction to Astronomy.

Assign: None

September 26, 2011
Students participated in an introduction to Astronomy using a computer program called "Cosmos"... this is designed to provide some background information before they are to begin working on a group project Wed. in which they will be doing research on and creating a presentation about one of many topics in Astronomy.

Assign: Chapter 1 Vocab due Tues 9/27

September 23, 2011
Students completed a quiz on measuring in the metric system, metric conversions, and scientific notation. No homework! Have a fantastic weekend!

Assign: None.

September 22, 2011
Student checked their homework from last night. We then spent the remainder of the period playing a review game for the quiz on Friday. The quiz is on the following: metric measuring (units, equipment, etc...), triple-beam balance (parts and using), metric conversions, and scientific notation

Assign: Measuring Quiz Friday! (40pts)

September 21, 2011
Student had their homework checked and reviewed. We then completed the notes on how to use Scientific Notation. Homework handouts were given w/ approx. 10-15min. left in class so I could help w/ any problems. There are ALOT of problems for homework. Use the practice as this will be a big part of your quiz on Friday. Lastly, I put up the 25 voca words I would like defined by next Tuesday (30pts... neatness counts!)

Assign: Metric Conversion Practice (5pts); Scientific Notation Practice (5pts); Chapter 1 Astro Vocab due Tues 9/27 (30pts); Friday - Measuring Quiz

September 20, 2011
Students got back their lab equipment quizzes from Friday. Class averages were in the 26-27/30 range.. not too bad! We then finishing massing a variety of objects and checked the measurements for accuracy. Finally, we finished class by reviewing how to do metric conversions. The handout we used is in the "Classwork" section of the NB and the notes we used in class are there as well. The home work for tonight is to finish the "Metric Conversions" sheet. We did the top half in class, you are to do the bottom half this evening.

Assign: Metric Conversions (5pts); Measuring Quiz Friday 9/23

September 19, 2011
Students had homework checked, went through the procedures for measring to the nearest 10th, and learned the parts of the triple-beam balance. We then zeroed the balance and practiced measuring the masses of a variety of objects.

Assign: None

September 16, 2011
Students took a quiz on Lab Equipment (30pts). We then finished the Metric Measuring outline and checked our notebooks again to make sure everything is there in the correct order. There was a homework assignment, Making Measurements in SI, given for the weekend.

Assign: Making Measurements in SI Units (5pts)... on the assignment, please choose the best METRIC unit to measure what is given to you... you don't need to actually measure anything!

September 15, 2011
Students took 4Sight testing this morning which lad to shortened class periods. Yesterday we filmed movie segments in each class and the movie was editted last night and finalized. We watched the film and then completed most of an outline on Metric Measuring.

Assign: Lab Equipment Quiz (30pts.... spelling counts!!!)

Lab Equipment Video!!!

media type="file" key="Lab Equip low.wmv" width="435" height="368"

September 14, 2011
Students had homework checked and reviewed, they recieved back their lab safety poster grade and lab safety quizzes. Following that we shot scenes for a movie I am making to review all of the different pieces of lab equipment that they will be tested on for Friday. Hopefully the movie can be editted and finished before then!

Assign: None but study for Lab Equipment quiz on Friday (30pts)

September 13, 2011
Students took a few minutes to finish their lab equipment drawings... following that we went through the lab equipment, showed uses, and completed the table. There will be a quiz on lab equipment on Friday. There are two homework assignments due tomorrow. The first is to help students to identify lab equipment and the second is a crossword dealing with the appropriate uses of lab equipment. Both assignments are worth 5 pts.

Assign: Lab Equipment ID WS (5pts) and Lab Equipment Crossword (5pts); Quiz on Lab Equipment on Friday

September 12, 2011
Students completed a quiz on the Lab safety rules. Following the quiz we reviewed the textbook scavenger hunt and went through the notebook to make sure everything was in its proper place... lastly, students will begin work learning the different types of lab equipment common in a science classroom. They had a few minutes at the end of class to work through the lab stations and start drawing sketches of everything. All my classes are up to date and where they need to be despite the loss of school. Period 5 and 6 will be excused from the Safety Poster project.

Assign: None; Lab Equipment quiz on Friday (10 questions for 30pts.... 1pt. correct ID, 1pt. correct spelling, 1pt. correct use)

September 8, 2011
Well, hope everyone is staying dry and enjoying a free afternoon! Today's early dismissal was unexpected to say the least! My morning classes had a chance to finish their poster project and present them... in regards to the quiz tomorrow... ALL CLASSES WILL TAKE THE QUIZ! we have been going over the material for a few days and you have all the information you need in your notebook. Please study JUST the highlighted safety rules and all of the lab symbols. Remember, I have flashcards posted in the "Notebook" section... spend a few minutes studying tonight to ensure you are prepared... this will go a long way in getting an awesome grade on this quiz and starting off the year right! Any questions email me or message through Facebook.

Assign: Quiz tomorrow on Safety Rules and Symbols! (28pts); Pd. 5/6 - Lab Safety Cartoon WS (in case you forgot the first time!)

September 7, 2011
Students finished up the highlighting of important science safety rules. We then went through the list of symbols they are responsible for learning. The end of the period was spent in groups working on a poster project where they are to visually show at least 3 rules from their group's selected topic. The poster will be worth 24 points. There is a homework assignment due tomorrow (see below) and a quiz scheduled for Friday (28pts).

Assign: Lab Safety Cartoon worksheet (5pts); Lab Safety and Lab Symbols quiz on Friday (28pts) *I added a set of symbol flashcards to the Notebook section.. use them!

September 6, 2011
Students had their notebook, book cover, and signed syllabus checked. They then completed a "Textbook Scavenger Hunt" to display some basic skills that will be useful in science this year (reading graphs, measuring, using the textbook, etc...). Lastly, students received a copy of the "Science Safey Rules". We began going over these rules and highlighting the important ones... there will be a quiz on Friday on the highlighted rules and all of the lab symbols.

Assign: If you haven't covered your book, had your syllabus signed, or acquired a notebook it is in your best interest to do that ASAP and show me the results. Quiz on Science Safety Rules and Symbol (Friday 9/9)

September 1, 2011
Students had the pleasure of listening to me talk ALL period about the course syllabus, this website, and classroom policies/procedures. It was a long class but necessary to cover.

Assign: 3 ring binder w/ 4 dividers (5pts), signed syllabus (5pts), book cover (5pts)

August 31, 2011
Students completed a Human Intelligence Hunt where they needed to seek out other members of the class w/ a variety of talents, skills, or knowledge. We then shared our talents w/ the class and recorded video of our "intelligences" to view at the end of the year.

Assign: Office paperwork due tomorrow (9/1); Binder and dividers by next Tues.

August 30, 2011
Students spent the morning getting all the paperwork handed out, gone over, and reminded of school expectations, etc... Classes were slightly shortened and jumbled up a bit due to the schedule. In my science class, students took a test about Mr. Leiderman. They then completed a short list of questions about themselves that I could read and learn alittle bit about everyone.

Assign: Office paperwork (emergency sheet w/ lots of signatures), Limerick card, blue healthroom card due by Thurs. 9/1; Science students need to have a notebook (3 ring binder) and 4 dividers by next Tues.