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Welcome to Mr.Weinberg's Biology Class In my class, we are having a great year learning about ourselves, and the living world to which we all belong. We explore fascinating topics that connect us with all other living things on this planet. Our topics include: The Chemistry of Life Genetics The Human Body Ecology Evolution Cells Plants Animals Fungi Microorganisms I always welcome any input you might be able to bring to my classroom, from your professional experience, to something you found in the woods. I encourage you and your family to look for newspaper and magazine articles as well as television shows that relate to the topics we will be studying. Follow along with us as we discover what makes the world of living things tick. If you want to meet with me to discuss any needs for your child, any problems that might arise, or any other ways that I can possibly help, contact me by: Telephone: My Office: 864 355-8742. If I am unavailable at the time you call, I’ll call you at my earliest convenience. Please be sure to leave me a message as to how and when I can return your call. Email: I can reached at: pweinber@greenville.k12.sc.us If you wish to meet and talk, before coming to the school, please call or email me to set up a time to meet. Try to allow a day or two for scheduling. Our textbook: Biology by Kenneth Miller and Joseph Levine Other materials you will need: We will perform some simple laboratory experiments, so an old over-shirt or lab coat substitute will protect our school clothes. The usual pens, pencils (a few colored ones would be great), paper, and the rest. Grading Labs, quizzes, assignments (homework or class work),and participation 50% Major Tests 50% Students are required to read the assigned materials, take notes, complete assigned vocabulary and review questions. The lab grade will be based on the student’s preparation, participation, safety and attitude during the lab and questions or quiz that might follow each lab procedure. All work must have student’s first and last name, class period, date, and title of the assignment in the upper right hand corner of the first page. Multiple pages should be stapled. Each student should keep a record of their grades in the front of their notebooks. Acceptance of Late Work Homework is due before the tardy bell rings. Homework will be placed in the homework box a the front of the classroom. NO late work will be accepted without an approved excuse. Work not turned in due to approved absences will be accepted if the work is turned in on the day of your return. You are responsible for asking for any missed assignments. Any tests missed due to approved absences will be made up within five days of your return. Behavioral Expectations Here are a few simple guidelines for my students that will help us use our time together more efficiently. I expect: 1. When the bell rings, a. be in your assigned seat b. have your pencils already sharpened c. have the appropriate materials out and ready 2. Be respectful of others ideas and their possessions, in speech and actions. 3. Participate. 4. Take turns; don’t interrupt. Raise your hand when you have something to contribute. 5. Give me your full attention. 6. Take care of this brand new school and it’s equipment. No food or drink in the classroom. Trash should be held until the end of class, then placed in the trash can. 7. If pencils need to be sharpened, raise your hand and ask permission to do so. 8. Do your homework, take the tests, and perform the lab exercises. 9. Passes will only be given for emergencies. Students MUST CARRY their Agenda book which serves as their hall pass, contains their handbook, and serves as an assignment notebook. Agenda replacement is $5.00. If a Student chooses to break the rules, the following consequences will be issued 1. First Offense: warning 2. Second Offense: parent contact 3. Third Offense: lunch detention 4. Fourth Offense: Disciplinary referral Severe Clause: Disciplinary referral Rewards for following the rules 1. Mastery of content, accompanied by good grades 2. A positive learning environment 3. A class you will enjoy Success in This Class Your child will be successful in Biology by: 1. Positive participation: listening, taking notes, asking questions 2. Preparation: reading and internalizing the content, completing assignments on time 3. Having a positive attitude Communication With Parents Each nine weeks, your student will receive a mid-quarter progress report and a quarterly report card. I will be contacting parents will positive notes and phone calls. My planning periods are 5 and 7 this year, and I am usually at school until 4:30 each day. Please call for a conference if you have concerns about your student’s progress in my class. |
