This course isn’t just a course about learning science skills. It goes deeper into the knowledge and understanding of who God is as Creator of this world. Through this course you will see the world through the wisdom of the Creator and how perfectly He organized the world to be learned by us. Genesis 2:15 is given to us as an example as to why we take this class. God made the world and then put us in charge of it. If we don’t know about the world then we can’t do that.
|
OverviewThis course is based on four subsets of skills that you will be developing as a student. All science is based on a basic knowledge of the subject but ultimately skills that you will learn in this class will lead you to a more natural understanding of the material. The skills that you learn will follow you through your whole life and cover many different aspects whether or not you become a scientist, business person, or even a beach bum.
Course work and Grading:
As you can see above your grade will be comprised of multiple grade categories. This will be how your final grade is calculated. Under Attendance your grade will be calculated at the end of each quarter then entered as follows: 1 Absence – excused or unexcused – equals 1% point, 3 Tardies – excused or unexcused – equals 1%. I expect your work to be turned in on time. Late work will be subject to the following penalties: 1 day late 10% off, 2 days late 50% off, Past 2 days late will be an automatic 0 on that assignment. The only exceptions to this are extended absences due to illness or travel or if you make a prearranged deal with me. |
Academic Skills |
The academic skills will lead you to become a better student through learning how to take notes and learn what is important in class. From this vital tool you will be able to synthesize the information given and apply critical thinking and problem solving skills. This process is an active process not a passive process. While learning you must also employ a creativity that will help you problem solve and find answers. You will also get firsthand experience in research, whether in the field or through reading, and learning to make high quality observations.
|
Communication Skills |
Education is about learning how to communicate what you know to others. This class will focus on writing with a purpose of conveying information. You will also learn how to give presentations to an audience. This is paired with your ability to listen to presentations and become active in the process of learning. All this will culminate in you being informed and able to discuss with others what you know.
|
Investigative Skills |
Part of your skill set that you will need to develop this year is found in a laboratory setting. These skills are paramount to scientist and development of these skills while you are still young is ideal. It is important to know the limits of scientific study because this is the foundation of safety. Beyond that you will learn to
|
Self-Management Skills |
Over the course of the year you will be given opportunity to reflect on what you have learned. This may be through tests or quizzes. You will need to learn how to prioritize and manage your time wisely. Group work will be part of this course and you will need to utilize teamwork strategies.
|