1 of 3

�Earth Science

Morton High School� �2024– 2025 School Year

Mr. Benjamin Ginzel, Science Teacher �Email: benjamin.ginzel@mcusd709.org

Phone: (309) 266-7162�Rm: Dept. of Science Office

�

Welcome to Earth Science!

This is a laboratory and discussion-based class with demonstrations and visual aids throughout each unit. Student engagement and hands on participation is expected and encouraged! Homework will consist of reading the text, completing online modules, supplemental worksheets, checking Schoology for data and assignments, completing section review and unit study guides, and maintaining a science notebook

Units Covered:

Scientific Method, Overview of Earth Science, Rock and Mineral Identification, The Rock Cycle, Earth’s internal processes, Plate Tectonics, External Earth Processes, Geologic Time, Groundwater, Topographic Map Reading.

Textbook:

Holt: Earth Science (2008))

Classroom Expectations:

Be Respectful
Be Responsible
Be Prepared
No Cheating
Follow all school policies

*All school rules and policies as noted in the Student Handbook apply in this classroom.

Homework: Assignments will consist of reading, textbook section reviews, webquests, work that wasn’t completed in class, and studying for assessments.

HELPFUL ON-LINE SITES

PowerSchool is an excellent way to stay on top of your grades, tardies, and absences. Please refer to PowerSchool for your actual course grade - not Schoology:�https://ps1.morton709.org/public/home.html

Schoology is where students AND parents access content, assignments, announcements and resources: http://mcusd709.schoology.com

Supplies Needed:

Notebook
Folder
Pencils/Pens/Highlighters/ipad stylus
3-Ring Binder

Grading Procedures:

A Total points system is used to calculate grades. Grades are determined by dividing an individual student’s accumulated point total by the total number of points possible.

�Tests: …………………………..…………..…100pts Max

Quizzes ………………………………………50pts Max

Labs …………………………………….……50pts Max

Homework ……………………………………Pts Vary

Projects ……………………………………….Pts Vary

A 93-100 C 77-84 F Below 70

B 85-92 D 70-76

Extra Credit

Evidence of study (EOS): Students can gain a maximum of 5 points on tests by turning in any hand written notes or extra study materials made from the given study guide.

Teachers Choice: At select times throughout the semester the teacher may give extra credit opportunities that pertain to the content being studied. This will be at the teachers discretion and will be made available to all students.

2 of 3

Academic Assistance

�M-F: 3:00pm – 3:40pm

M-F: Potter Hour Rm 17

Prep Periods: 5th & 6th

I am always willing to help any student who seeks extra assistance. I strongly encourage students to arrange a meeting time in advance but am willing to help anytime if I am available. Before school is by appointment only while any other time listed to the left students are welcome to stop by the Science Office or email me.

Make – up Work/late work:

Schoology will be updated weekly. Students have full access to all course materials on Schoology, including, presentations, notes, handouts, and assignments. In the case of absence, students should check Schoology to see what was missed. Paper copies are available when requested..

All tests and quizzes must be made-up prior to the last day of the quarter. Late work can be submitted up until the review day for that unit. After that, late work will only be accepted for up to a 50%. A “0” in the gradebook for a missing assignment will be changed after it is submitted and graded.

�

In order for the best environment possible, students are expected to be respectful to each other, the classroom, and the instructor at all times. If there is a question or concern during lecture or guided practice, students should raise their hands to be called upon. If a student’s behavior is repeatedly disruptive to another’s learning experience, or destructive to the classroom environment, the following steps will be taken:

1)Student conference

2)Parent phone call

3)Write up

Students enrolled in Earth Science are expected to be prepared for class with their iPad, textbook, writing utensil, and paper. They should take notes and complete homework in a timely manner. I also expect students to ask questions and seek help when appropriate. In addition, students are expected to attain passing test scores.

Absent or quarantined students are expected to check Schoology tor work they missed. If a virtual meeting is necessary, please email me to make arrangements. The Google Meet code will be: ginzelmhs

As an educator my passion is to help you learn to love learning! Come to class ready to explore science together and work hard. Most importantly, do not hesitate to ask questions at any time!

I look forward to working with you this year as we navigate Biology together!

Sincerely,

Mr. Ginzel

3 of 3

Please sign to acknowledge that you have read and understand the Earth Science 22-23 Syllabus.

Student Name (Please Print): ________________________________________________________

Student Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: _____________

Parent/Guardian Name (Please Print): _______________________________________________

��Parent/Guardian Signature ____________________________________ Date: _____________

If you have any questions, comments or things I should know please reach out!