Environmental Science     ~     Ms. Craig

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into  you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like falling leaves."
                                                    ~ John Muir

Text:  Arms.  Environmental Science.  2004.  Holt

     Course Description:  An introductory experience in the multi-faceted field of environmental science, this course will provide the student with an invaluable education of the most pressing environmental issues of our time.

    Course Goals:  The primary goal of this course is to provide the student with an opportunity to see the practical application of both the physical and living sciences.   This course is also intended to hone students’ critical thinking skills and to develop an appreciation for the natural world around us.                                     

Course Objectives:

      The student will:

1.      Demonstrate a sound knowledge of basic environmental issues through the successful completion of homework assignments and tests, and active participation in classroom discussions.

2.      Keep track of current environmental issues in the news and record this information and a brief reflection in a portfolio.

3.      Complete and present a research project on an environmental topic.

4.      Collaborate with peers on problem-solving activities.

Attendance Policy:  In accordance with attendance policy set forth by the administration students must not exceeded 18 absences.  Furthermore, students are responsible for the work missed.  Absences also decrease your TE grade.  (See explanation that follows)

Late arrival:

If you arrive late to class, you must have a signed pass from the office or from the teacher whose class you are coming from.  Upon entering the classroom, you will quietly sign in, hand me your pass and join the class in the current activity.

Cheating:

Under NO circumstances are students allowed to “share” answers on assignments, quizzes, or tests.  Students will receive NO CREDIT for any assignment they have cheated on or for any test or quiz they have talked during.  Whenever two people are involved in a cheating episode, BOTH the person providing the answer and the person receiving the answer will earn NO CREDIT.  A second offense will result in your parents being notified as well as the school principal and may result in a failing grade for the entire course.  Cheating reduces your chances for success on the Regents and denies you the opportunity for a successful learning experience.  Cheating also prevents me from accurately assessing your needs, and thus hinders my ability to successfully teach you. 

Classroom Guidelines:  

The Four Be's

                               Be On Time.                                      

                                Be Prepared.

                         Be Respectful.                                  

            Be Positive.                            

Teacher Evaluation

Everyday, each student that is present automatically earns 4 points toward their TE grade.  If you are not in class, you do not earn these points.  If you are late to class you may lose one or two of these points depending on the nature of your tardiness and the frequency.  You may also lose these points if you are unprepared for class or have not completed your homework assignment.  You may also lose points if you are not participating in the class discussion or activity.  Finally, you will lose your points if you are disruptive or disrespectful to your peers or to me. 

* You may arrange to see me during Prep or after school.  See me to set up an appointment.

I am here for YOU!!!  If you do not understand something, need extra help, or want to review, please come to me.  I will make every effort to help you.  You just have to let me know.

  Contact Information

email: hcraig@nccscougar.org