Basic Science Click here for a copy to PRINT or here
Essential Question(s)	What is the nature of science, who uses science and why should science be important to everyone?

Please check the classroom for due dates as late work is generally NOT accepted. I will collect some individual assignments to put in the grade book, including ALL homework. Save all work to turn in when the unit is due. You have a folder and a bag in class to use! (w) means there is a link on the website.

Sections I - Basics You must complete the assignments to get the points. Write your scores down as w e complete assignments. I will tell you all the details.

Pts	#	Assignment Title	Type	Due
/30	1	Vocabulary cards (5 big) (10pts) AND quiz (20 pts) (w)	VOC
/20	2	Scientist Report (w)	HMK
/20	3	Moon Hoax (Video and Internet work required) (w)	VID
/20	4	Integrated Science / Web (w)	WKS
/20	5	Quotes	ACT
/20	6	Bill Nye notes	VID
/10	7	Core discussion	ACT
/10	8	Disclosure (hon) / Internet form turned in	HMK
/10	9	Quiz
/ 150.		Section I points (Max 160)

Section II - Labs or other work. These assignments are a little bit harder or longer.

Pts	#	Assignment title	Due Date
/30	1	Unknown lab
/30	2	Vocabulary Story (w)
/ 50.		Section II points (Max 60)

All due dates are given in class on the board be sure to write them down. If the unit packet is turned in late you will lose 50 points from your total. The assessment will be worth 1/2 credit.

Your Totals	Points Possible	Grading scale for unit A 180 – 200 / B 160 – 179 / C 140 – 159 / D 120 - 139	Unit due date
	200	Unit score (Section I + II) Max 230 pts
	100	Assessment* (Poster answering Es. Qs. above)

*The assessment will either be a test, essay, project or other assessment tool that either the student or teacher chooses. The assessment must show competency in answering the essential questions in detail. Much of the above information and vocabulary words MUST be used to demonstrate an understanding.

In order to keep your parents informed of your work and what we are doing in class let them see this list of assignments. It must be signed before you turn it in. This can be done any time. This is REQUIRED or I will not accept your work.

Parent signature. __________________________________________ date __________________

Vocabulary words. * These words will be on your quiz and so will 5 other words! You must make vocabulary flashcards using the index cards from class (or your own). At the end of the year you will have a large stash of flashcards. I promise you that this is the unit with the most vocabulary words. You must make *words* into big cards as described in class or on-line.

Science language students should use (Vocabulary) Click here for the definitions
Analyze Assumption Calculate Classify Compare* Conclude	Data Describe Experiment Evidence* Generalize Hypothesis	Interpret Inference Infer Investigation Measure* Observe	Predict Relate Technology Tentative Theory* Variable*

The main intent of science instruction in Utah is that students will value and use science as a process of obtaining knowledge based upon observable evidence.

1. Use Science Process and Thinking Skills

a. Observe objects and events for patterns and record both qualitative and quantitative information.

b. Sort and sequence data according to a given criterion.

c. Develop and use categories to classify subjects studied.

2. Manifest Scientific Attitudes and Interests

a. Read and look at books and other science materials voluntarily.

b. Raise questions about objects, events, and processes that can be answered through scientific investigation.

c. Maintain an open and questioning mind toward ideas and alternative points of view.

3. Demonstrate Understanding of Science Concepts and Principles

a. Know and explain science information specified for their grade level.

b. Distinguish between examples and non‑examples of concepts that have been taught.

c. Compare concepts and principles based upon specific criteria.

4. Communicate Effectively Using Science Language and Reasoning

a. Provide relevant data to support their inferences and conclusions.

b. Use precise scientific language in oral and written communication.

c. Use correct English in oral and written reports.

5. Demonstrate Awareness of Social and Historical Aspects of Science

a. Cite examples of how science affects life.

b. Give instances of how technological advances have influenced the progress of science and how science has influenced advances in technology.

c. Understand the cumulative nature of the development of science knowledge.

6. Demonstrate Understanding of the Nature of Science

a. Science is a way of knowing that is used by many people, not just scientists.

b. Understand that science investigations use a variety of methods and do not always use the same set of procedures; understand that there is not just one "scientific method."

c. Science findings are based upon evidence.

I have shortened this basic introduction of the state core. The whole thing can be found at http://www.schools.utah.gov/curr/sci/secondary/documents/8THCORE03.pdf