Earth Science
North Iredell High School
Mrs. Britainy Dearman | Room I-210 |
e-mail: bdearman@iss.k12.nc.us | Tutoring: Thursdays 3:15-4:00 |
School phone: 704-876-4191
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Information for parents and daily assignments will be posted on my website, accessible from the “Our Staff” page on the NIHS homepage. |
Welcome! I am looking forward to an interesting and challenging semester as we explore earth science together. In this course, you will improve your observation, questioning, critical thinking, and laboratory skills while learning the basics of geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. You will investigate and master concepts through discussion, cooperative learning, individual work, hands-on labs, and research activities. Every one of you has contributions to make to our class, and I look forward to getting to know you. I am here to help you succeed! Please e-mail or come see me as soon as you don’t understand something.
Essential learning requirements for Earth Science
Students must be able to:
- Perform and understand scientific investigations.
- Understand the processes that shape the solid earth: rock cycle, plate tectonics, and earthquake waves.
- Analyze the sources and impacts of natural resources and energy.
- Understand what and how scientists know about the geologic past.
- Evaluate processes in streams, oceans, and groundwater.
- Evaluate water resources and environmental issues associated with them.
- Analyze weather systems and how scientists predict the weather.
- Understand the consequences of global changes in the atmosphere.
- Examine what planets and stars are made of and how they move.
- Understand the tools astronomers use to study space.
Required materials:
Bring these with you to class everyday.
Textbook (Prentice Hall Earth Science)
Loose leaf paper
Agenda
Pens or pencils
3-ring binder (at least 1”) with 3 dividers labeled:
Notes, Work, Study Guides/Quizzes
Class Expectations:
- RESPECT your classmates and your teacher.
This includes their property, their space, and most importantly their ideas.
- Take responsibility for your own education.
Come to class prepared, ready, and on time. Work toward success with a positive attitude.
- Move and speak when appropriate for class activity.
Please be quiet and remain seated while I am speaking to the class.
Do your own work on individual assignments. Do your fair share in group work.
All Freshman Academy, school, and district policies will be enforced.
Consequences for negative behavior:
1. Verbal warning and/or loss of classroom privileges
2. Bounce to SRC or lunch detention
3. Parent Conference/Behavior Contract
4. Discipline Referral
Rewards for positive behavior:
Verbal praise, homework passes, classroom recognition, unassigned seating, more activities, and an overall more enjoyable experience for all of us
Grading Policy:
Each unit will consist of approximately 200 points according to the following estimates:
Tests 100 points | Grading Scale |
Labs 40 points | 92.5 – 100% A |
Classwork and Homework 40 points | 84.5 – 92.4% B |
Quizzes 20 points | 76.5 – 84.4% C |
| 69.5 – 76.4% D |
Approx. Total per unit 200 points | Below 69.5% F |
There is no State End-Of-Course test for this class. The teacher-made final exam will count 25% of the overall grade. Late daily homework will not be accepted. Labs and major assignments handed in late will result in a 10-point deduction for each day late.
Absence and Tardy Policy:
Students may not miss more than 3 days per 9 weeks or 6 day per semester and pass the class. Time may be made up during ASD, BSD, or Saturday School. Students are responsible for checking the assignment calendar, picking up worksheets, and copying missed notes from a trusted classmate. All missed work and tests must be made up within 5 days of returning to school. You must also make arrangements to make up time if necessary. Three unexcused tardies in a 9-week period will equal one absence.
