Welcome+Letter

Introduction to Life Science Mr. Cottrell

Welcome to Introduction to Life Science. As part of a learning community, we will learn how living things work and about the world around us.

Students Today is the day that you make a decision to do your best one subject at a time and one school day at a time. If you choose to give your personal best in each moment, then you are on your way to becoming a successful student. Being prepared for class by having the appropriate materials plays a big part in your road to success. Choosing to behave properly during class time is also important. It is your responsibility to give yourself and others the best opportunity to grow in the learning environment provided. I know that you are up to the task ahead and that you CAN do a great job!

Bell Work Procedure Students should be in their assigned seats before the tardy bells rings. The bell is the signal for each student to begin the bell work assignment. Homework can be written into the daily planner during this time along with updating the science notebook. Be on time please and start working when the bell rings.

Behavior consequences: (Depending on the behavior or level of disruption.) 1. Verbal warning 2. Parent communication 3. Demerits 4. Referral to the office 5. Class suspension

Behavior expectations: 1. Take care of yourself (and your future) 2. Take care of others (respect them and their stuff) 3. Take care of the place (and it’s stuff) 4. Give Your Personal Best!

Grading The school grading policy can be viewed in the student handbook. All assignments should be turned in on time in order to earn full credit. Late work should be turned and will receive 90% credit for the work done correctly. It is very important for students to not earn zeros on any assignments. Long term assignments can be turned in late, however, there is a penalty of 10% per day after the due date. Papers with NO name may not receive credit. The total grade will be based on the following weighted categories. Student work will make up 40% of the total grade, test and quizzes will make up 50% of the total grade, and participation will make up 10% of the total grade. Extra credit is available for students who have all assignments turned in and complete. Extra credit is not “EXTRA” if many regular assignments are missing or incomplete.

Life Science will cover the following units of study:Lab Safety, Metric Measuring, Thinking like a Scientist/Problem Solving, Using Light, Cell Structure/Function, Genetics, History of Life on Earth, Structure and Function in Living Systems (Microorganisms, Fungi, Plants, Animals), and Human Body Systems

How can your parents contact Mr. Cottrell? Phone: 760-367-9507 E-mail: jim_cottrell@morongo.k12.ca.us [|Twentynine Palms Junior High]’s website