Big Changes - Forces ans Motion Unit

Science 7

Louise Maionchi



Forces and Motion



We are about to begin our new unit on forces and motion, also known as physical science. This unit will provide a variety of experiences through guided scientific investigation. As we begin all students will start with Lesson 1, of the text. Each student will proceed at his or her own pace. A required amount of work is to be completed by everyone. The weekly assignment sheets will reflect student expectations for that week. Students capable of successfully working at a faster pace will have access to materials needed to complete each successive lesson. From time to time I will pull the class together for a mini-lesson on the important topics covered by the text.



I believe that this method of learning maximizes differentiation within the classroom. It also enables me to guide students through the process of investigation, while each child learns at a comfortable rate. I have used this same style of teaching very successfully for many years in my home state of New York. The students were excited and had the opportunity to work with other children with similar skills in small groups. I will personally check with each child, on a daily basis to see what is accomplished. Look for my initials in your child’s notebook.



Students must complete the following rubric before approval to begin the next lesson:







Lesson Completion Grid

Number and Title of Lesson______________________________________________

Section 1 – Notebook

Date Completed Teacher’s Initials or Comments

Dates included in Notes



Number and Title of the Inquiry included in Notebook



Notes and Calculations from the Lesson



Summary of the Inquiry



Answers to Questions imbedded in the Lesson



Summary of Readings Within the Lesson



Section 2 – Student Generated Study Guide

Date Completed Teacher’s Initials or Comments

Definitions of Key Terms



A List of Major Concepts how they are used in the Lesson.



Important Diagrams



Section 3 - Completed and Corrected Inquiries

Title and Number of Inquiry Date Completed Teacher’s Initials or Comments
















Section 4 – Completed Test

Test Score Date Completed Teacher’s comment





Sunday, August 22, 2010

Weekly Plan Sheet - Week of 8/23

Science 7 WEEKLY ASSIGNMENT SHEET


Ms. Maionchi (May-on-key)

Week of 8/23


Monday 8/23 No School for students – INSTITUTE DAY


Tuesday 8/24
In Class:

Today all students will report to their Advisory Class. Please remember to bring all supplies and signed packets to your advisor.

During Advisory, students will be given instructions for the day.

Wednesday 8/25
In Class:
Hand out science packets. Discuss classroom rules and regulations.

  • Today seats will be assigned and texts will be distributed.
  • You will also be asked to label you classroom folder. Folders will be permanently placed on file. All of your class work will be kept on file, including tests, projects and graded laboratory activities. We will use work from your folders during student lead conferences later in the term.
  • Homework: Be sure to bring in your text, pencils and notebook for tomorrow.
*Please return signed student contract and safety form.


Thursday 8/26
In Class:
Students must have their notebook text and materials each day!

  • Read the “Blind Men and the Elephant”. Discuss how the story relates to science class.
  • Begin Lesson 1 on page 2 of the text.
  • Using your notebook, record today’s date, the lesson number and title of the lesson.
  • Also be sure to record the objectives for the lesson in your notes.
  • Follow the instructions on page 3 of your text. We will discuss them with the class.
  • Homework: Make sure you have included 5 to 10 things you know about space in your notes.

Friday 8/27
In Class:


  • Read directions for Inquiry 1.1
  • Following the procedure, record your answers for questions A-J in your notes.
  • The class will complete Activity 1.1.
  • The reflections on page 8 will be completed on Monday.

  • Homework: I seldom assign homework on the weekend. Have a great end to the week!

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