• Ms. Buus                                                                                                            Barry Goldwater High School

    Earth Science                                                                                                                                  Room #: 410

                                                                                                                                         Vanessa.Buus@dvusd.org

                                                                                                                        

    Course Description:

    The Earth is a very complex structure. This class is designed to give you a better understanding of the Earth and its surroundings. In our quest to understand the Earth we will be studying four major sciences: Geology, Astronomy, Oceanography and Meteorology. This class is aligned with Arizona College and Career Ready Standards and/or national standards and supports school-wide efforts to increase student achievement.

     

    Course Objectives:

    By the time the student completes this course of study, the student will know or be able to:

    • Differentiate between metamorphic, sedimentary and igneous rocks.
    • Describe the physical evolution of Earth.
    • Describe our solar system and all of its components.
    • Explain processes within the geosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere and show how they are connected.

    In addition to the course objectives listed above, the “Arizona College and Career Ready” Anchor

    Standards for Writing are also embedded.

    • Standard 1- Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
    • Standard 2- Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.
    • Standard 9- Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

     

    Classroom Rules: In addition to the Pathways guidelines found in the handbook I expect the following:

    1. Respect that this is a learning environment - While you are in this classroom you are expected to conduct yourself in a manner which benefits the learning for yourself and others. Rude or disrespectful behavior along with the use of electronic devices will not be tolerated and will be handled in accordance with district policy.

    2. Be here – It is important that you are in class regularly and on time. Missed classes could result in missing out on useful hints, instructions or analogies to help you become more successful.

    3. Be Prepared - It is important that you come to class prepared to participate and learn. Coming to class with supplies such as pen or pencil, loose leaf paper and a 3-ring notebook for keeping your assignments is highly recommended. A three hole punch is available for use in the room.

    4. Respect Yourself and Others 

    5. Positive attitude – This will make our time together more enjoyable. We all can do well in this class!

    6. No food or drinks in the classroom – We might be using substances that may contaminate what you put in your mouth. This is for your own health and safety and a Pathways policy.

     

    Grading:  In accordance with school policy there will be no extra credit available and no late work is accepted!!                         

    Grading Scale:

    90% – 100% – A

    80% – 89% – B

    70% – 79% – C

    60% – 69% – D

    59% or below – F

    Canvas Grade Online Access: Grades and attendance may be accessed 24 hours a day online through the Canvas app or online.    

    Daily Device Use: Students should come to school with their devices charged and ready to use in each class every day.  

    Devices may not be used to record or take photos of other people without their consent.  Consequences for classroom disruptions and misuse of devices will follow a progressive discipline model, beginning with a phone call home and progressing to office referrals for repeated or more serious offenses. Students who have devices out during a Red environment or during testing, may lose credit on their test or quiz.  See the Student Rights and Responsibilities consequence chart in the handbook for more specific descriptions of infractions and consequences.

     Math/Science Calculator Policy: All students will be allowed to use their personal calculators for any test or quiz required.