What is Science?

Science is an activity, encompassing the systematic study of the world around us through observation and experimentation. Science is NOT an unchanging list of facts determined only by those who have gone before. It is an ongoing process that seeks to continuously refine our ability to understand and predict the entire universe.

"Science is a way of thinking much more than it is a body of knowledge."

                                                                      - Carl Sagan (1934 - 1996)

Expectations

Students are expected to be actively involved in their learning experience, from participating in class, to labs, activities, and research. Designing and performing experiments to investigate concepts helps scientific principles to come alive and extend from the theoretical to the practical. Students are expected to draw conclusions, compare their results, and learn how to report their findings. Just as scientists must have self-discipline, honesty, and integrity, so must science students.

Student participation is not expected to always be 100% correct! Some of the most effective learning comes from errors. Students are encouraged to offer suggestions and insights even when they don't know the answer. Ask questions! Make mistakes!

“There are a thousand ways to get a problem wrong -- not all of them bad -- and many ways to get a problem right -- not all of them good.”

                                                                     -David J. Griffiths (1942 -    )

Class Expectations

Many types of resources will be used in class, from websites to textbooks and review books. Students will also need to at times research using other outside sources to obtain information for experiments. Students will be advised and supported in learning how to find valid sources of information. With all the information available -- some scientifically supported, some not -- it is important students learn how to choose between them.

Students are expected to be in class on time, with all necessary materials for that day, including:

1. School-provided Chromebook
2. Three-ring Binder (with dividers) for collecting and organizing notes, assignments, and handouts
3. Pencils and/or pens (students are strongly encouraged to use pencils to keep calculations neat and legible. Mistakes happen often!)
4. Calculator (see Note on Calculators below and Other Resources page) (Not required for General Science)
5. Earbuds (to use with Chromebook)
6. Any other homework assignments or lab materials required for the day

Class Rules

1. Ask questions
2. Ask questions
3. There are no bad questions.
4. Treat your peers and teacher with respect.
5. Follow directions carefully.
6. No food or drinks in the lab area.
7. Do not touch lab equipment unless instructed to do so.
8. Respect your learning and remain engaged.
9. Ask questions!!

Note on Cell Phones

Students are expected to follow all school policies while in class. Cell phones should be out of sight and silent during class unless being used for class work. At times cell phones may be allowed for particular class activities, but will never be required. There will always be a secondary way to complete the activity.

Note on Calculators

Graphing or scientific calculators are necessary for Physics and Chemistry! Graphing calculators are not required, but are allowed on the Physics Regents Exam. Graphing calculators are NOT allowed on the Chemistry Regents Exam. A selection of calculators are available in the classroom for student use. Students may use calculators on their phone during class and at home, but not on quizzes, tests, or the Regents exam.

I recommend Calc84 (Android) or equivalent. It is a FREE app that has the same functionality and layout as a TI-84. There are other apps for Android and iPhone as well! While a phone can not be used on exams, students can use one at home and during class.

Calculators are not required for General Science.