"The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled."

                                                               ~Plutarch, Greek historian

Instructor - Patricia Ware

Class Description

This is a hands-on lab course.  Students learn the key concepts as defined by the CA State Standards as they practice scientific inquiry through scholarly, active learning.  Numerous labs will bolster the students' science literacy and complement the PowerPoint lectures, videos, and textbook assignments.  The intent of these labs is to enable students to learn science concepts, to develop scientific reasoning, and to work as a team.  (See the National Science Teacher Association position statement on labs.) 

Assignment Procedures

Although most students finish class work in class, any assignment not completed in class becomes homework even if the student is absent.  Unless otherwise specified, these assignments are due the next day.  Students are graded on all work assigned unless specifically excused by Ms. Ware. As a rule – unexcused late work is NOT accepted! 

1.  Is it Alive?

    (Human Body Systems)

2.  Musculoskeletal System

3.  Levers

4.  Cardiopulmonary System

5.  Light

6.  Vision & Hearing

7.  Chemistry of Life

8.  Cells

 9.   Cell Processes

10.  Cell Reproduction

      (Plant Reproduction)

11.  Heredity

12.  DNA

13.  Evolution

14.  Earth & Life History

15.  Human Reproduction

 Chapter Outlines, Flashcards, & Quizzes       

- Scissors
- Scotch tape
- Ruler
- Stapler
- Paperclips
- 5" x 3" index cards 
- Computer & printer (You may use the computer at the public library)

Absences

Complete all assignments missed due to absences including labs.  Excused late work, for those students who are absent, must be completed within the same number of days that the student has been absent. (i.e. 2 days absent = 2 days to hand in work) unless the student asks and receives an extension.  Most missed labs need to be made up during lunch or at home within a week of the absence.

Science Notebook  

Science notebooks serve as a portfolio of learning throughout the year.  Students make a notebook for each unit by stapling in a packet all of the class work, labs, and homework as listed in the notebook's table of contents.  Notebooks are graded for quality, completeness, and organization.  The grade counts in the essay/lab category and in addition, if the student earns an A, B, or C grade, the student will receive extra credit. 

Grades will be posted on Edline.net.  Students should see Ms. Ware if they have questions concerning a grade before parents email or phone.  Grades are weighted and calculated on a point system based upon:

        - Class Participation (10%),

        - Labs, Projects, and Essays (35%)

        - Extra Credit (2%)

93 -100% = A  
90 - 92% = A-
89 - 87% = B+
86 - 83% = B
82 - 80% = B-
79 - 77% = C+

The work habits grade is based upon assignments, notebook checks, and how well a student is prepared for class. The citizenship grade is based upon following the classroom's procedures and expectations (PDF) and good behavior. Tardies will affect the Citizenship grade,

On a personal note to parents and guardians…

Welcome to an intellectually stimulating year in science!  I genuinely have concern for my students, and I am pleased to have your child in my class.  I love to teach, and I hope to help inspire MBMS students as part of the next wave of American scientists.

Your child will be learning many new terms and concepts this year in life science.  So if extra assistance is needed to master the content, please encourage your child to ask me for help.  I am usually available at either nutrition or lunch. 

I have an 'open door' policy and welcome any questions or comments that will help your child succeed in my class. If you ever have any concerns, please email me. It is in our best interest not to pass judgment on any issue until we have had a discussion. Communication is the key to success.

All the best,

             ~Patricia Ware

"There is no word in the language that I revere more than teacher. None. My heart sings when a kid refers to me as his teacher and it always has.  I've honored myself and the entire family of man by becoming one"

~Pat Conroy
            The Prince of Tides

Patricia Ware

Manhattan Beach Middle School

1501 Redondo Beach Avenue

Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

310.318.7345 ext. 3105