Parent/Guardian Letter 2016-2017

Dear Parents and Guardians,

First, I would like to thank you for embarking on this exciting endeavor to prepare students to meet the rigors of the 21st century.  Over this summer I attended Blackburn College where the NGSS expectations were introduced and demonstrated to a hand full of teachers. There will be new content and differentiate strategies to learning this year. You will hear phenomenas, 3D learning, modeling etc….

This year we will be using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to guide our curriculum. The NGSS incorporates science concepts of investigating, building models, and theories with engineering practices of designing and building models or systems. The focus for this year will be all three branches of science. Students will also look at how natural forces and humans impact the earth and look for solutions that are both economical and environmentally sound. We will be using the design process to engineer solutions. Students will also engage in creating models and simulations to understand various science concepts.

Students will be graded on projects. This will include models, simulations, and labs that are conducted. I will use a rubric to grade students and it will include participation as part of the grade. The project portion of their grade will be done in class  as this is the area that we will spend the majority of our learning time.

Students will need a composition book or notebook. They are expected to bring it to class each day.

They will record notes and data in these journals. It will be a cumulative process. Therefore, the journals or notebooks will comprise a portion of their  grade.

The tests/ quizzes will not consist of rote learning type questions. Instead there will be questions where students will apply their knowledge.

Lastly, homework will be limited to assignments that will enhance student learning and directly relates to what we are learning, but cannot be completed in class due to time restraints.

I will be communicating through Google Classroom, email,  and blog.  I will use my blog and Google Classroom  to post reminders about upcoming tests/quizzes, project due dates, and other school related announcements. I will also post these dates on my calendar, which can be found on my blog. My blog will contain information and standards on the lessons that we are covering in class. I will also put links for additional information to topics if students wish to learn more. Homework assignments will also be listed on the Google Classroom. My blog is where pictures and current on goings/news in the classroom will be posted.  My blog link http://6thgrsandss.blogspot.com/

Finally, Keeping in mind that education is a partnership between school and home, we can work together to encourage the children to strive for their best.  I look forward to working with you and your child this year!  Please feel free to contact me at 474-2119 or e-mail me I’m always available if you have any questions, comments, or concerns please email me at  sschrock@altonschols.org .

Let’s make this a great year as we venture into this journey together. It is my intention that this will be both an exciting and successful school year!

Thank you for your time and support,

Mrs. Schrock