PROVIDENCE ST.

MEL SCHOOL- ROOM 401

MR. JOHN EGAN

SCIENCE 8TH. GRADE PHYSICAL SCIENCE

(773) 722-4600 EX 4011
eganj@psmnow.com
Tutoring hours- Everyday 7:00 to 7:45 A.M. in the Auditorium, Thursdays 3:15-4:20
Everyday Immediately after school, and by appointment.

SYLLABUS -2015/2016

TEXT: PHYSICAL SCIENCE, PRENTICE HALL

Overview
This class is designed to increase your confidence and abilities in Science while providing the foundation for further
study. Also, it will promote an understanding of the relationship between Science, technology, and society through the use
of our text, newspapers, periodicals, guest speakers, competitions, projects, computers, and lab work.. We will focus on
higher-order thinking skills while working both independently and in group settings. Finally, our writing and public speaking
skills will be emphasized throughout the course.
Classroom Goals:
We will create a safe, engaging, and educational environment where we all learn, succeed, and grow:
By maintaining high academic and behavioral standards;
By creating a positive environment with clear expectations, encouragement, cooperation, and respect from all
members of the classroom;
By accepting responsibility for inappropriate actions and resolving conflicts in a peaceable way;
By creating paths that are best for individual learners through differentiation, direction, and guidance from the
teacher and other students;
By learning from each other through open participation of ideas, opinions, and achievements;
With a firm, fair, and consistent approach to unacceptable behavior by use of classroom rules and the consequence
continuum.
HONOR CODE AND EXPECTATIONS
The rules and regulations which appear herein, as well as day-to-day instructions from faculty, staff, and administration, are
developed to give expression to the philosophy on which PSM is based: maximum development of the student -- academically, socially,
emotionally and morally. Thus it is expected that all students will comply with instructions, both verbal and written, given them by
members of the PSM faculty, staff, and administration. These instructions apply when students are in the building, on the immediate
grounds of the school, and/or representing the school on any trip or function. Language that is respectful and conducive to the
academic setting is expected to be used by everyone during school and school associated events. Failure to comply with these
directives may result in disciplinary action or dismissal of the student. Parents are expected to support policies and procedures of the
handbook.
Furthermore, in keeping with the schools philosophy which states that . . . the moral development of our students . . . (is) a central
concern for us at Providence-St. Mel . . ., we declare that a PSM student does not lie, cheat, or steal. Those who engage in such
actions may be subject to disciplinary action and/or forfeiture of the privilege of attending PSM.
OBJECTIVES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

To provide an educational program which will prepare students for further academic work and careers.
To develop in students basic skills in critical reading, writing, thinking, and problem solving.
To provide an educational program which encompasses both remedial and advanced courses.
To challenge each student to attain his/her fullest potential.
To maintain a standard of excellence through consistent evaluation and update of both curriculum and instructional
methods.
6. To create and maintain a community atmosphere based on mutual respect and concern between and among students,
faculty, staff, and administration.
7. To instill in students a sense of pride in their accomplishments and the determination to overcome obstacles.
8. To instill in students personal discipline and self-direction.
9. To facilitate in each student the development of a Christian moral value system.
10. To challenge students to gain admission into a top tier college or university.

CONSEQUENCE CONTINUUM FOR GRADES 6 - 12

Although certain extreme behaviors may result in immediate removal of a student from the classroom, teachers in
most instances will employ a Consequence Continuum in dealing with inappropriate behavior. The continuum starts over
every school day. Steps 1 and 2 must be followed before moving on. However, teachers may issue automatic immediate
referrals to students engaging in repeated offenses involving extreme inappropriate behavior. The Principal has the
right to change the continuum at any time.
The steps of the Consequence Continuum
Step 1: With the first instance of inappropriate behavior, the student receives a verbal warning from the
teacher.
Step 2: If the inappropriate behavior continues, the student receives a teacher-requested meeting slip for
an after-school conference. The teacher will also call the parent/guardian. Failure to appear for
the conference is a class cut.
Step 3: If the appropriate behavior persists, the student receives an immediate referral from the
teacher and is sent to the Dean of Students. The teacher will also call the parent/guardian
in a timely manner.
Consequences
A students first referral of the academic year results in a minimum of 3 consecutive days of detention after school.
A students second referral of the academic year results in a parent-teacher conference with the Dean of Students.
The student will receive appropriate disciplinary action at the discretion of the dean.
A students third referral of the academic year results in the student being placed on behavior contract. The parent
must meet with the dean.
If the contract is broken, the student and a parent meet with the Principal. After being on contract for the
designated period, the student will be reviewed and possibly removed from the contract if overall improvement has
occurred. If another referral occurs while on contract, the student may be expelled.
If a student is removed from the contract, but then receives another referral, Saturday work detention and an
immediate parent conference will take place followed by the renewal of the contract for the remainder of the year. If the
student breaks the contract, expulsion will occur.
Academic Goals:
You will develop science skills through:
Understanding, practicing, and evaluating the stages of the problem solving and critical thinking process;
The DAILY practice of various types of problem solving activities;
Truly comprehending and applying the scientific method;
Becoming familiar with scientific measurement;
Carefully collecting and analyzing data;
Developing the ability to create original hypotheses and design experiments;
Having the discipline to conduct meaningful experiments in the utmost safety;
Having the integrity to report results accurately and honestly;
Having the motivation to produce perfectly written lab reports;
Developing basic computer skills including creating graphs on Excel and Power Point.
Warm-up Notebook:
Students will keep a warm-up/class journal notebook as a portion of their class work grade.
All students are expected to complete and participate in warm-ups during class and take notes.
Warm-up/class journal notebooks will be collected periodically for grading, so students are responsible for keeping
notebooks neat, accurate, and in dated chronological sequence..
Tests and Quizzes.
Students will be given notice of all scheduled major tests.
Some science activities and courses of study will have unannounced quizzes associated with them.
The student is responsible for meeting with the teacher to schedule a make up time for a missed test or quiz
due to an excused absence.
Projects that are due during an excused students absence are due the day that the student returns if she or he had
received the assignment before or during the absence. Students can call or email to get assignments.
Please do not expect them to be personally delivered to the front office.

Homework Policies :
Unless otherwise specified, all homework is due when class begins.
Students who do not have homework when class begins can, at most, receive 50% when homework is turned
in at the start of class on the next class day. In accordance with school policy, late work cannot receive more
than 50% credit. After one late day, no credit is possible.
Students with repeated missing or late assignments may be subject to a referral or parent conference as
determined by the teacher.
Unless otherwise specified, all homework will be done on loose-leaf paper in black pen in a legible manner.
Students who do not complete homework neatly or attempt to turn in incomplete work will be asked to redo the
assignment to receive credit.
Students who do not complete homework according to the teachers directions will be asked to redo the assignment
to receive credit.
Students with excused absences can make up all work assigned during their absence and will be given the amount of
time they were absent to complete the work (example- absent one day- one day to complete missed work). This is
in cases where students had not received the assignment before their return.
Homework assigned prior to a students absence is due on the day that student returns.
A student must write out all questions, show all of her or his work, and answer every question in order to receive
credit. Students do not have the option of ignoring more difficult items for partial credit or not attempting items
which they say they dont understand.
In Middle School we answer questions in complete sentences and well constructed paragraphs.
As is standard Middle School policy, the maximum grade that can be received for work handed in one day late is
50%.No credit is awarded for assignments more than one day late. However, it is important to realize that all
assignments need to be handed in during a Quarter in order to receive a grade for that Quarter.
Assignments that require more than one sheet of paper need to be stapled before a student arrives.
Each question should be numbered in the left margin with a number followed by a period, i.e. 1. A student needs to
skip lines between each question. All work begins with the PSM Heading, and is both legible and devoid of all
grammatical and spelling mistakes. Correct grammar in writing and speaking is required.
Students who earn less than a 60% on a homework assignment must redo the assignment.
All measurements in class must be completed using SI units, never inches or ounces, for example.
When constructing a chart by hand, a ruler needs to be employed.
Importantly, assignments that are to be typed will always be given several days for completion. Successful students
do not put off doing this type of work to the last minute; therefore, excuses from parents or
students about computer or printer problems will never be accepted. Please plan accordingly. Further,
students are completely responsible for any information exporting technology they choose to use in terms
of compatibility and operation. Any malfunction does not constitute an excuse for late or missing work. A
failure to sign technology forms or the inability to recall passwords, likewise, does not offer any acceptable
excuse. By the third week, at a minimum, students will need to know how to select and install a printer, how to
use school email, and how to retrieve and save information to the schools H drive and Y drive

Zero Tolerance Policy:

As per PSM policy, cheating on a test, quiz, or assignment will result in a zero. Students who are cheating will be given an
immediate disciplinary referral. The student(s) cheating as well as the student(s) who lent the work are subject to these
consequences. Letting someone copy ones homework is a serious breach of academic honesty.
It is the students responsibility to email the teacher during an absence to get assignments. Parents should encourage
this and not expect teachers to make a separate trip to the front desk to leave paper copies of information that
can be handled much more efficiently via email. Please use eganj@psmnow.com to get missing work. Also, please
remember, you can log on to your Powerschool account at any time (ps.psm.k12.il.us) to get assignments.
In the event of a scheduled absence, Students should make the necessary arrangements and get the assignments
the day before they are out.

Required Materials for Class:

Recommended Items:

(1) Notebook for Daily Warm-ups/journal entries

Loose-leaf Paper, black pens, pencils

Colored Pencils
Ruler
Highlighter
Index Cards
Graph Paper

Students are expected to bring required materials to class each day.

Students who are not prepared for class or are missing materials will lose participation points which are part of the
homework grade.

Methods of Assessment:
Homework assignments, class participation, class work, warm-up notebooks, projects, lab work, lab reports, various
components of the science fair, quizzes, tests, and final exam.
Distribution of Grades:
1/4
Homework and Class Work
1/4
Tests, Quizzes
1/4
Lab
1/4
Final Exam

A+
A
B+
B
C+
C
D+
D
F

Grading Scale:
97-100
93-96
88-92
83-87
78-82
73-77
69-72
65-78
Below 65

Specific Classroom Rules

We need to take full advantage of the 45 minutes we have together. Therefore, everyone must be prepared
for the days lesson. This includes having all necessary class materials and assignments out on desks.
Students who are out of their assigned seats as the bell rings are considered tardy.
We begin each day with a warm-up activity that should be started before the bell rings.
We should all be paying attention until the bell
Absolutely no talking without being recognized by the teacher or as part of formal group work.
Absolutely no talking when anyone else is talking. This rule covers fellow students, the instructor, anyone who
enters the room to speak with the instructor, and announcements over the loudspeaker.
Directions must be followed the first time they are given. I seldom repeat directions, so it is paramount that you
hear them when I give them.
Work only on Science in class. You will never hear me say, I dont care what youre doing in any other class.
This is not true. I do care; however, while students are in this class the only subject they can work on is Science.
Everyone must be respected. Respect is not earned, it is given. I respect everyone who walks through my door
on the first day and expect the same from everyone in return. Classmates must be treated how everyone
would like to be treated, as well.
The classroom must be left the way it was found
Students can not get up out of their seats for any reason such as throwing things away or sharpening pencils.
No removing pages from spiral notebooks in the classroom.
Tissue is never supplied to students; any personal needs must be met by the students. Class can not be interrupted
to ask for such things.
We must maintain a healthy environment for everyone. Students who are unduly coughing or sneezing or who have
any uncovered lesions will be asked to go the front office in compliance with state health laws. Under no circumstances
can students place tissues on their desks or engage in other unhygienic practices. Such infractions will result in the
student being asked to disinfect involved common surfaces..
Students must learn maturity and how to remain calm. Too often what gets students in trouble is how they react
to a verbal warning. If a student doesnt agree with how a situation (a grade on an assignment, a verbal
warning, a detention) is being handled by the instructor, I assure you that raising a voice or showing disrespect
will not help matters. The time to talk about such problems is after class in a calm respectful manner.
Students who are late for class are not allowed to hand in their homework unless the tardy is excused.

Science Department Problem Solving Format:

From reading the problem:
1. List known information, including units
2. List unknown information that is being asked for
3. Write down applicable equation(s)
4. Substitute known information, including units, into equation
5. Solve equation showing all steps including cancelling of units
6. Identify answer (with correct units) by enclosing it in a box
example:
The density of a rock is required to set up an experiment. The rocks mass was measured as 18.0
grams. The volume of the rock was determined by water displacement to be 9.0 cm 3. What is the
density of the measured rock?
Mass = 18.0 g
Volume = 9.0 cm3
Density = ?
Density = Mass/Volume

D = m/v
D = 18.0 g/9.0 cm3
__________________

D= 2.0 g/ cm3

example:
An automobile headlight is connected to a 12-volt battery. If the current in the circuit is 0.40 amps, what
is the resistance of the headlight?
Voltage = 12.0 volts
Current = 0.40 amps
Resistance = ?
Resistance = Voltage/Current

R = V/I
R = 12V/0.40A
_________
R = 30.0

example:
Over the course of a year the North American Plate moves a distance of 5.0 centimeters. How many
meters will this plate move in 1,000 years?
Speed = 5.0 cm/year
Time = 1,000 years
Distance = ?
Distance = Speed X Time
1 m/100 cm = 1

D=SxT
D = 5.0 cm/year x 1000 years
D = 5,000.0 cm x 1 m/100 cm
D = 5,000.0 cm m /100 cm
_________
D = 50.0 m

PSM LAB FORMAT

This is kept as a template in the Y drive, You need to follow this exactly in terms of spacing and indentation.
Put the heading two lines from the top, use the bold face text, and replace the instructions with your text.
Name:
Teachers name:
Class/Period:
Date:

I Title:

(5%) A brief, 5-6 word description that tells what the lab is about and addresses the specific

investigation,
II Problem

(5%) at least one paragraph that shows the relative importance of the investigation- NOT WHAT

MIGHT HAVE GONE WRONG WITH AN EXPERIMENT!

III Hypothesis:

(5%) A testable inference or prediction about the lab, which is correctly stated as to what will be

possible without being a random guess,

.
IV Materials:
(5%) Written in columns, everything that was really used with precise identification and exact
metric/SI quantities needed,
V Procedure:

(10%) Written in third person narrative style, brief but clear steps. These steps are numbered in

order and describe how the materials were used. There is a loss of 5pts if it's not written in 3rd person passive- What was
done; not what I or the teacher had done, Also 2nd person imperative is unacceptable- not "first, place 20 grams.
substance 'A' in the 1000 ml beaker", but 20 grams of substance A were placed in the 1000 ml beaker.
VI Data:

(20%) Shown as computer generated graphs and tables whenever possible (digital illustrations are

also acceptable),
VII Discussion

(45%) Analyses of data, direct applications of research, improvements, review of related research

any other relevant original explanations, Inferences about how the data support the hypothesis are included. This
should be at least one full page double spaced,
VIII Conclusion

(5%) An answer to the hypothesis is written here which

must directly address it and have a

professional focus, Not "It was fun and I really learned a lot ."

The general requirement is Two to three pages full pages of text, double spaced, typed, with acceptable graphics and, when
deemed necessary, a bibliography is generally the requirement. It is very important to realize that no more than a very few
direct quotes can be used, and any copying of print or computer sources constitutes plagiarism which will result in a
zero on the entire assignment and a disciplinary referral. Lab work needs to carefully follow these criteria as this type of
work represents 25% of a students grade.

Classroom Procedures
Mr. Egan

Start of Class
1. Enter the room quietly. Be seated before bell rings. Have all needed materials.
2. Put homework on top left corner of your desk to be collected or stamped.
3. Begin warm-up activity. Work ahead if you finish activity before the teacher starts class.

During Teach Time

1.
2.
3.
4.

Wait to be called on.

You are expected to be prepared and participate at all times.
You may only be out of your seat with teacher permission.
Passes are not issued unless there is an emergency.

Group Work Time

1.
2.
3.
4.

Move in and out of groups quickly and quietly.

Work cooperatively and quietly with the members of your group only.
Stop working immediately and listen for directions when the teacher gives the signal.
Stay on task to complete work in time given.

Class Work Time

1. Work independently and quietly. Raise your hand for help.
2. If you are finished, check your work carefully before moving on to another task.
3. Ask the teacher for another task or attempt problems of your choosing when you are finished.

End of Class
1. Write down homework in assignment notebook.
2. Leave your desk and floor area clean.
3. Leave quietly after teacher has dismissed you.

Class__________ Date____________
Students Name (LAST)__________________(First)_________________

I have read the syllabus, and I understand the expectations of Mr. Egans classroom. I will keep a copy
of the syllabus with me in class every day or face the consequence of supper club.
Student
Signature__________________________________________________________________

I have read the syllabus and I understand the expectations of my child in Mr. Egans classroom.
Parent/Guardian
Signature _________________________________________________________

PLEASE NOTE: FALURE TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT DOES NOT

RELINQUISH RESPONSIBILITY FOR FOLLOWING ANY OF THE
REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES.