Use this page to find out basic technical information about your science course. It includes some handouts you've been given in class, as well as links to what the State of California expects you to learn.

Syllabus

A syllabus tells you what to expect from the course you have signed up to take--in other words, the basic stuff. It lists the supplies you need (like the textbook) and explains how the course will be graded. So, this is the syllabus for my science class. It should match the one you were given at the start of the semester.

(download syllabus)

FAQ sheet

"FAQ" stands for "Frequently Asked Questions". As the same questions tend to arise over and over, I figure that it is easier to simply write down my answers to your concerns about grading policies. So ... here they are! This matches a handout that you should have received at the start of the semester.

(download FAQ sheet)

Grading using points

This is a detailed (but clear) description of how I decide how many points each assignment is worth. You should have a copy of this, too.

(download grading using points)

Science grades are available on-line!

I now keep all science grades on the internet. Each student has been given an identification number and access code so they can keep track of their progress as often as they like. I will have also mailed home access information to parents and guardians soon after school starts in the fall. If you have this information, you can go here to check your science grade. At this location, you can see your current grade, which assignments are missing, and how many times you have been absent or tardy to science class. You can also leave me a message here if you don't have e-mail.

If you have misplaced your access codes, please send me an e-mail. Parents--if your access codes never made it to you, please send me an e-mail as well!

Lab safety contract

During labs, certain rules must be followed to keep everyone safe. The generic forms below come from a well-known science supplier. Though exhaustively detailed, I believe that they cover all of the bases necessary.

(download lab safety contract in English)

(download lab safety contract in Spanish)

The State of California has listed what each student should learn, in each subject, at each grade level. In other words, this is a list of the stuff your teachers are trying to help you to understand. Clicking on the logo above will take you to a page that will give you access to all of the information (called "standards") for each subject you are taking now. For science, however, I have provided shortcut links in this summary. Click on the following text for 7th grade science standards, and 8th grade science standards.

(click here for science standards in Spanish)

Harden Middle School

Of course you know where you are taking this class. At least, I certainly hope so. However, you can always learn more things about your school. Go here to find out important facts about Harden.

As always, I can be reached at askmrc@earthlink.net.