Hello! My name is Dr. Heidi Reed and I will be your child’s 7th grade science teacher. This is my 16th year of teaching Science in L’Anse Creuse. My educational background includes earning my Bachelors Degree from the University of Michigan. I have earned two degrees from Wayne State University. My Wayne State Degrees include: a Masters Degree in Education Leadership and an Education Specialist Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Finally, my Doctoral Degree is in Aerospace Science. I love learning and hope to ignite the same passion I have for education in your child. My goal is to engage your child in a fascinating year of science education this year. I look forward to being a partner in your child’s learning experience!
This year your child will learn about the following science topics:
· Chemistry
· Matter
· Cells
· Heredity/Genetics
· Human body systems
· Animals
· Classification
· Evolution
· Motion of objects
A new textbook will be given with each unit of study. If you have a hobby or career that you would be willing to share related to our studies, please contact me to make arrangements for a visit.
Grading
Each assignment has a point value to it. Total points accumulated out of the points possible will determine grades. Attached is the MSE 7th Grade Science Grade Sheet Schedule. Students will be graded based on the following categories of assignments:
· Assignments in class including notes & labs
· Homework
· Projects
· Class Participation
· Quizzes
· Tests
Homework
Homework is used to reinforce concepts taught in class as well as help teach responsibility. Late homework assignments are not accepted for credit unless they are due to an absence. Students will not be permitted to leave class or call home for a missing assignment. If work is not handed in, the grade for that assignment will be a zero. Your child will be provided with one late homework pass for each card marking. This can be used by stapling the pass to the one day late homework assignment. If they don’t use the late homework pass and return to me at the end of the marking period, they will earn 10 extra credit points.
Quizzes and Tests
To ensure that the students are regularly completing and understanding their course work, I usually administer a quiz. I assess student progress with a more formal test at the end of each unit. Should your son or daughter earn a quiz or test grade of C or lower, please encourage your child to visit me about ways to improve his or her progress.
Class Participation
Class participation means taking an active role in learning, and the learning of fellow classmates. Students are expected to pay attention and be involved in class at all times. I will use the following indicators to determine your child’s citizenship grade:
· Involvement in the discussion/activity?
· Do they stay on task?
· Following class procedures/rules?
· Are they prepared for class?
· Are they respectful?
· Are they responsible?
Students will be doing a number of exciting activities this year. To ensure that students have fun and succeed, it is important that they follow class and lab safety rules. Please help me maintain a safe environment by reviewing the safety guidelines that I will send home with your child.
Extra Credit
Extra credit should be enriching and extend the academic program. I will not offer assignments that are for the sole purpose of raising low grades. Extra credit is designed for students that completed the assigned tasks. I will offer extra credit opportunities throughout the school year.
Communication
I will be utilizing the following forms of communication:
Please begin the year with good communication by supplying me with your information on the following page.
I look forward to an exciting educational experience with your child.
Sincerely,
Heidi Reed
MSE 7th Grade Science
