Truesdell

High School Geology

2012-2013 Syllabus Description:

Geology is the branch of science that deals with the earths physical structure and substance, its history, and the processes that act on it. This course is designed to provide students with opportunities to dig deeper into the past and learn about the history of earths development, analyze and identify the three main types of rocks (sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic), study how minerals are the building blocks of our physical world, and examine dynamic earth systems like earthquakes and volcanoes. Through labs, lectures, videos, and discussion, be prepared to have fun while also gaining a far deeper appreciation for the world surrounding you!

Contact Information:
Name: John Truesdell Education: B.A. Education (Social Studies & Earth/Space Science), University of Michigan. Email: jtruesdell@sjschools.org Phone: 269-926-3344 (Please call between 7:00 - 7:45 am or 3:00 4:00pm) Room: #217 (SJHS Burgundy Hallway)

Classroom Policies:
1. RESPECT: Above all else, everyone in classroom #217 will respect themselves, each other, and the learning environment. This class will explore sensitive issues that require students to demonstrate mature behavior. I understand that respect is a two way street. This expectation applies not only to students but to the teacher as well. Be Prepared: Entering the classroom ready to learn means bringing the proper supplies each day. On a daily basis, students should bring a binder, paper, and a writing utensil. Students will receive 24 hour notification if any additional supplies such as a textbook are required. Extra materials are available in the Student Activity Center but are very limited. Be Responsible: I recognize that most of you will be going to college or entering the real world in a very short time. As a result, I will treat you like young adults. In return, I expect you to demonstrate a high level of self-accountability by keeping organized and staying on top of your work. Ask Questions: Expectations and instructions will always be laid out as clearly as possible. However, even the greatest thinkers will sometimes become confused (most likely because of their teachers!). Never be afraid to approach me to ask questions or clarify an explanation. Have a Good Attitude & Have Some Fun: This class is heavily driven by student discussion and participation. That means Im relying on you guys to push this class to become a fun exploration of the physical world around us.

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Truesdell
Late Work:
Work should be turned in on time. Unexcused late work will be accepted within 24 hours of the original due date for credit.

Plagiarism:
Plagiarism is defined in the Webster dictionary as, The practice of taking someone elses work or ideas and passing them off as ones own. Simple Rule: DO NOT copy, steal, or use information from another source without the proper citation. Plagiarism will be dealt with as outlined in the student handbook.

Absences:
Absences are the best way to guarantee that you will not learn anything. Much of what we will do in this class cannot easily be made up. I will adhere to the student handbooks policies regarding attendance. Classroom discussions, guest speakers, and simulations are very difficult to find in a textbook, so make it a top priority to show up for class. Additional information to know: Unexcused absences on test or quiz days will result in a 25% reduction of your test score. All tests and quizzes must be made up within three days of your return (excused or unexcused). Additional delays will result in a reduction of your test/quiz score. (10% per day). Unexcused absences on a test or quiz day will result in an immediate 0 plugged into Powerbook until you come speak to me about making it up. After a student has received more than 10 unexcused absences, they must complete a GEOLOGY Portfolio in order to be allowed to take the semester exam. This includes: o Speaking to Mr. Truesdell about completing & turning in all missing work at a C level or higher. o Completing all remaining semester work on time and at a minimum of a C average. o Performing an Outside Geo Project as determined by Mr. Truesdell

Grades: Students grades will be determined by three categories of work: Notebooks/Folders (5%), Homework & Classwork (35%) and Quizzes, Tests, & Projects (60). Final grades will be determined using the District Grading Scale. Notebooks/Folders: Students will be expected to take an active role in this class. This means that they are taking notes on a daily basis and keeping any handouts or assignments organized. Periodically I may collect your notes to make sure you are meeting your responsibilities in this class, or will give notebook quizzes to check that you are keeping track of the classes content. Homework & Classwork: Students may receive homework once or twice a week. It is crucial that you turn this work in on time for full credit. In addition, classwork such as group work, study guides, labs, guided notes, or activities will be essential to your grade. Work hard, ask questions, and do your best, and this should not be too tricky. Quizzes, Tests, & Projects: Students should expect to take a quiz on class material roughly about once a week. In addition to quizzes, we will also have larger unit tests that will be crucial to being successful in this course. Keep organized, stay on top of your work, and study once in awhile and you should be fine. There is also the possibility of minor projects from time to time. I will provide more details later in the semester about this. District Grading Scale:
100 93% = A 92 90% = A89 87% = B+ 86 83% = B 82 80% = B79 77% = C+ 76 73% = C 72 70% = C69 67% = D+ 66 63% = D 62 60% = D59 00% = F

Note: Extra credit will be earned, not given. Opportunities for extra credit will be available at certain points throughout the semester, and will typically require students to become engaged with the community. Students will be notified of these opportunities as they arise.