The Living Environment is a science class that stresses inquiry and depends upon the basic relationships of the physical sciences as well as living things.  Both the ability to understand the content as well as applying scientific skills will be critical parts of this course.  This class culminates in the completion of a New York State Regents Exam.

As with most things in life, we learn best by practicing (sports, musical instruments etc.).  My  classroom is not an Internet or online course.  I have specifically designed this class to maximize “in class” as well as “out of class” time.  At home your student will read notes/textbook information that I have created in order to explain concepts and provide opportunities for students to create their own notes as a means to  preview the content prior to class instruction.   In class we will apply those concepts learned at home through collaboration with fellow classmates, one-on-one discussions with the me the teacher (coach) and “hands on” activities that would be far too challenging to complete at home without any assistance resulting in a higher level of understanding.  

● Exams/ Quizzes                                                           60%
● Homework                                                                            10% (No late HW accepted)
● Labs                                                                                       15% (No late lab write-up accepted)
● Class Participation                                                         15%

Students are required to bring to class each day:

• Ring binder to write notes in, to hold unit packets and various worksheets
• Pen(s) AND pencil(s)
• Unit Packets (contain daily worksheets) will be provided.  

Regular attendance is crucial for success.  If you are absent you are still responsible for all material covered in class and all assigned homework.  Class materials and a calendar of homework assignments can be found on my website. Any student who misses 3 or more days must see me to arrange a schedule to make up work missed during the student's absence. Students must be in class in their seats and prepared to work when the bell rings.  If a student is late to class they must have a pass.

NO CELL PHONES IN CLASS!!!

This is a laboratory classroom in which chemicals are used. There will be no eating, drinking or cell phone use during class or at lab stations.

Cell phone use interferes with learning opportunities therefore students will be asked to turn off their cell phones and tuck them into their bags upon entering my classroom. Texting, snap-chatting, video recording or any other inappropriate use of a phone during class will lead to a phone call home or appropriate consequences as outlined by school policy.