Grading Policy

IS 237

Mr. Benedetti   Earth Science

 

Physical Setting Earth Science is a course meant to give you a better understanding of the world around you.  This year we will be studying many different aspects of the natural world including: Geology, Earthquakes and Volcanoes, Meteorology, Geologic Time and Astronomy.  We can look forward to a fun year ahead of us.

 

Your grades will be calculated using four categories: Tests, Labs/projects, Homework and Classwork.  The breakdown of each category weight is as follows.

 

Tests

50%

Quizzes

10%

Homework

15%

Classwork

25%

 

Categories:

 

Tests:

 

Large exams will occur at the end of big units and small section quizzes will be given throughout the unit to assess progress.  All tests will be designed to prepare you for Regents style questions.  Opportunities for test corrections will be made available.

 

Labs:

 

ALL labs must be handed in on time.  Labs will be checked to meet a more than satisfactory level.  Labs are graded using a rubric that assesses completion, understanding, application and execution.  Students will be provided with a template for all lab reports.  Students will be required to keep a lab portfolio updated and complete in the classroom.

In order to qualify for the Regents Exam, students must complete approximately 30 Labs.

Homework:

 

Each student will begin each marking period with 100 points.  Homeworks will be checked for completion and correctness.  Homeworks are a tool for assessment and opportunities for independent study.  Mistakes are a natural and valuable process for learning.  Homework allows the opportunity to make mistakes and see them corrected without the threat of a low grade.  All genuine efforts to complete homework will result in full credit.

 

Failure to complete a homework will result in a 5 point deduction from the homework grade.  Homework must be completed using a proper heading and format unless otherwise explained.  Homeworks will not always be straightforward reading assignments or multiple choice questions. 

 

Classwork:

 

The classwork grade is made up of several different pieces.  Notebook checks will be part of this grade.  Notebooks should be organized and have all of the required supplies.  This grade will also be calculated from work completed in class.  Bonus points can be awarded here for outstanding effort or behavior.  Points can be deducted from here for poor behavior or destructive actions.  Adherence to a set of class rules is expected at all times in the science classroom.

 

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