Class Syllabus

Education is a continuous and life-long process. Education is changing in response to the continual changes in society, particularly in job requirements. The goals and methods of instruction are being revised nationally to reflect the needs of the Twenty-first Century. Our goal is to prepare students for the next ten, twenty, and later years of their lives. With this perspective, consider the following goals :

The use of technology, the development of communication skills, the ability to gather and organize information, and the development of social skills in groups; these are the job skills of the present and future.

We will cover the concepts of science in depth. There will be less of an emphasis on memorizing facts. The goal is for the students to analyze, create, and evaluate scientific information. These are higher level thinking skills.

To achieve these goals a variety of instructional methods will be used. Demonstration is a key element in science instruction. Also, students should be active learners in class.   
  
 

Labs and Activities :

Young scientists need to experience science in an active, hands-on way. Laboratory investigations compliment and enhance the classroom activities. Following the lab procedure is an important part of the learning process, but analysis of data and the synthesis of ideas are most important. This happens on the lab report. Also, computer assisted instruction will be used as much as possible. The Internet will also be used in this course. The library and labs have many computers with access to the Internet. I will instruct the students on the use of the computers as part of this class.

  Tests and Alternative Assessments :

Tests are only one part of assessing a student’s achievement. Students will generate portfolios, journals, laboratory reports, research projects, role-playing activities, and homework questions. Outside readings will be assigned frequently. These will be newspaper or magazine articles, as well as Internet assignments. It is crucial that students read their assignments.
 
 

Group Work :

Science has become a collaborative field. TEAMS of scientists work together to discover new things. The students will work in cooperative groups on many projects. Individuals are always responsible for their part of the work.

Each person will complete unique and original work.      Data is shared

in the lab group, but questions and analysis will be done independently.

Grading :

All classes will receive performance-based assessments as part of the exam.
 

Discipline Policy :

All students are expected to be familiar with the rules of the school.

A classroom record of behavior is kept. I will usually give warnings before detention is given.  Student detention slips will be given to students to arrange a meeting with Mr. Ulmer to resolve any problem.
 

Ulmedw@wilsonsd.org

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