Welcome to Ms. McGibbon's Web Page!!!

UPDATED 8/28/08

 WELCOME TO GRADE 7

IT'S GOING TO BE AN AMAZING YEAR!!!

What Are Our Classroom Procedures?

Over the next few weeks we will discuss various class procedures and get a chance to practice them. Because I intend to provide a classroom atmosphere conducive to learning and where all students know they are safe and welcome, I expect everyone to:

Be prepared for class. Students must bring all items listed for each subject every day. Preparation will be a part of a student’s grade.

Enter the room quietly and be seated in the correct seat.

Follow instructions on the overhead projector immediately upon entering the room.

Respect all learners in the classroom!!!

 

 

SCIENCE

Topics that will be covered in science this year include:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Anatomy
• Environmental Science
• Physics
• Microbiology
• Genetics

Unit I: Scientific Method and Living Organisms and Non-Living Objects.

Students will be able to:

• define the scientific method
• identify the steps of the scientific method
• use the scientific method to perform a series of experiments
• define science
• identify the characteristics of a living organism
• define Biotic and Abiotic Factors
• learn how to use a microscope and identifying its parts
• learn the Metric system.

Unit II: From Bacteria to Plants

• identify living things

• classify organisms

• learn the three domains

• identify the four kingdoms

• identify bacteria and viruses
• identify protists and fungi

Unit III: Environmental Science

Students will be able to:

• identify populations and communities
• identify ecosystems and biomes
• understand environmental issues
  
• appreciate living and non-living resources

Unit IV: Genetics

Students will be able to:

• understand cell structure and function
• learn about cell processes and energy
• study the science of genetics and inheritance
• learn about probability and genetics
• learn about modern genetics
• design the own organism

Unit V: The Human Body

How Can You Help Your Seventh Grader?

Homework Checklist for Parents   Provide a quiet, well-lit space, away from distractions and with all the right study materials -- paper, pens and pencils, books, a dictionary, a desk, etc. Try to find a separate space for each of your children, or schedule quiet times for homework in designated spaces. Create a regular schedule, allowing for adequate study and free time. Limit TV time, and do not allow it during homework. When possible, be available to answer questions. Try doing a problem or two together, then watch as the child tries the next one. Avoid simply giving an answer. Instead, ask questions that let your child see the problem in smaller, sequential steps. Check your child's planner which we use for writing down assignments. This is your best resource for finding out what is going on in school and what the homework assignment is. The planner is updated each day by Mrs. McGibbon,Mrs Chlanda, Mrs. Foley and Ms DiSilvio. When your child is finished, compare the homework and the planner to make sure everything is done. Review completed and graded assignments. Discuss errors to be sure your child understands the material. Try not to overschedule your child. Remember your child is in school for 6 hours and 35 minutes each day and really needs some relaxed down time. Spend some time with your child each day. Let her/him know that they are important, that you believe in them and that you are not going to give up on them,ever!!