Wolcott High School
Ecology
Ms. Taylor
2014 - 2015
Course Description:
Ecology is the science that studies the interrelationships between living species and their physical environment. This course examines how ecosystems function including cycling of nutrients, energy transfer, competition and symbiotic relationships. The second semester focus of this course is to raise students’ environmental awareness by studying, analyzing and discussing a variety of ecological topics such as global warming, air and water pollution, depletion of natural resources, vanishing wildlife, and discarding waste products.
Teaching Philosophy:
I aim to help students cultivate an appreciation for the wonders of the natural world, develop the skills necessary for environmental literacy, and learn the value of environmental stewardship in protecting the health of our planet.
Grading:
Tests, quizzes, labs and projects are collectively worth 80% of each quarter grade. Homework, classwork, notebook checks and daily activities are worth 20% of each quarter grade.
Materials and Organization:
Please acquire the following materials for Ecology class:
· Pencils and blue or black pens
· Notebook: white lined paper, with perforations
· One-inch three ring binder
· Planner
The following materials are highly recommended, but not required:
· Three-hole punch
· Ruler
· Flash drive
· Colored pencils
· Index cards
· Ear buds (to use while accessing education video/audio on iPads or computers)
Absences and Missed Work
If you are absent, you are allowed the same number of days to make up the work that you missed while out of school. For example, if you are absent for two days, you will be allowed two days after your return to complete your missed work. Tests must be made up on the first available opportunity after you return to school, because they are always assigned at least one week in advance.
Tests are dropped off in the resource center. Please see the front desk, ask for your test, and return it to the front desk when complete.
Behavior and Classroom Expectations
· Be considerate. Do not distract or interrupt others. Be mindful that you share a classroom and materials with other students.
· Be prepared. Come to class with the materials that you need to succeed and be comfortable.
· Be honest. Do not mislead others, or present others’ work as your own. Act with integrity.
· Be respectful. Treat others as you would like to be treated.
· Be safe. Follow laboratory safety rules and directions carefully.
Students may be assigned a written reflection or detention for behavior issues.
Use of Technology
· Course Website: My course website is a useful tool with a course calendar and extra resources that can help students master the material or browse for fun.
WEB URL: http://www.ctayloreco.weebly.com
· Cell Phones: Student cell phones should be silenced and stowed away in backpacks. As per school policy, students using their cell phone during the school day will have the device taken and be referred to administration.
· Plagiarism: Please refer to the section of the student handbook regarding plagiarism. Acts of plagiarism will be reported to administration.
Communication and Extra Help
Students and parents are welcome to e-mail me with any questions or concerns at [email protected].
Extra help is available after school. Please see me in advance to make arrangements.
A variety of extra credit assignments are available on the class website.
I look forward to a great year as your ecology teacher!
Ecology
Ms. Taylor
2014 - 2015
Course Description:
Ecology is the science that studies the interrelationships between living species and their physical environment. This course examines how ecosystems function including cycling of nutrients, energy transfer, competition and symbiotic relationships. The second semester focus of this course is to raise students’ environmental awareness by studying, analyzing and discussing a variety of ecological topics such as global warming, air and water pollution, depletion of natural resources, vanishing wildlife, and discarding waste products.
Teaching Philosophy:
I aim to help students cultivate an appreciation for the wonders of the natural world, develop the skills necessary for environmental literacy, and learn the value of environmental stewardship in protecting the health of our planet.
Grading:
Tests, quizzes, labs and projects are collectively worth 80% of each quarter grade. Homework, classwork, notebook checks and daily activities are worth 20% of each quarter grade.
Materials and Organization:
Please acquire the following materials for Ecology class:
· Pencils and blue or black pens
· Notebook: white lined paper, with perforations
· One-inch three ring binder
· Planner
The following materials are highly recommended, but not required:
· Three-hole punch
· Ruler
· Flash drive
· Colored pencils
· Index cards
· Ear buds (to use while accessing education video/audio on iPads or computers)
Absences and Missed Work
If you are absent, you are allowed the same number of days to make up the work that you missed while out of school. For example, if you are absent for two days, you will be allowed two days after your return to complete your missed work. Tests must be made up on the first available opportunity after you return to school, because they are always assigned at least one week in advance.
Tests are dropped off in the resource center. Please see the front desk, ask for your test, and return it to the front desk when complete.
Behavior and Classroom Expectations
· Be considerate. Do not distract or interrupt others. Be mindful that you share a classroom and materials with other students.
· Be prepared. Come to class with the materials that you need to succeed and be comfortable.
· Be honest. Do not mislead others, or present others’ work as your own. Act with integrity.
· Be respectful. Treat others as you would like to be treated.
· Be safe. Follow laboratory safety rules and directions carefully.
Students may be assigned a written reflection or detention for behavior issues.
Use of Technology
· Course Website: My course website is a useful tool with a course calendar and extra resources that can help students master the material or browse for fun.
WEB URL: http://www.ctayloreco.weebly.com
· Cell Phones: Student cell phones should be silenced and stowed away in backpacks. As per school policy, students using their cell phone during the school day will have the device taken and be referred to administration.
· Plagiarism: Please refer to the section of the student handbook regarding plagiarism. Acts of plagiarism will be reported to administration.
Communication and Extra Help
Students and parents are welcome to e-mail me with any questions or concerns at [email protected].
Extra help is available after school. Please see me in advance to make arrangements.
A variety of extra credit assignments are available on the class website.
I look forward to a great year as your ecology teacher!