Science 7 & Science 8
Team Athenians
Distance Learning:
Assignments are assigned using the Canvas Learning Management System.
Course Content is accessed through Canvas and the Textbook.
Zoom Meetings are where the assignments are explained..
Items to Note in Canvas:
Canvas contains a list of activities your child will do each day. Click on (Modules).
The Canvas Calendar will show what is due.
Announcements in Canvas will have the latest Zoom Meeting Link.
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Parents:
I am honored to be your child's science teacher this year.
I see distance-learning a unique opportunity for students to get ahead and develop maturity. One big change is your child will have to think of their device as a learning tool and not a toy.
Next your child will have to practice problem solving and guiding themselves daily. Your child will need to drive their own learning, because hand-guiding individuals is limited this year. Helping your child gain the mindset to drive their own learning will benefit them the rest of their lives.
Parents can help by coach rather than managing everything. Keeping careful tabs on performance and holding your child accountable to your expectations is key. Repeatedly asking, “What do you need to do next?” or “How could you find that out?” is a good start.
Determining what needs to be done, how to get it done, and how to stay on task, are things your child should be in charge of. They will need these skills in high school and life, and they definitely will need coaching.
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Students:
I am privileged and delighted to be your Science Teacher this year. I take your education and intellectual growth seriously, but despite great effort, mistakes will be made and technology will falter. By working together we will overcome these obstacles and have a great school year. Here are a few things you should know:
I don’t expect you to be a perfect student, but I do hope you will do your best.
I am interested in how you would like to show what you have learned. Our use of technology will give you multiple ways to do this.
How fast someone comes up with answers may make school easier, but it has little to do with being able to think. Making connections and working to use what you have learned will make you smart. Being smart is a choice and is built by effort. (Google “wax on, wax off” Karate Kid.)
I can not see if an assignment is thwarting your efforts. Let me know if you are having trouble moving forward or feeling overwhelmed by an assignment. That way we can develop a workaround plan together.
If I am going too fast or not explaining enough, please let me know. Most other students and I will greatly appreciate it.
I look forward to learning “why you get out of bed in the morning” (google this quote with the words Elon Musk). In other words, what are your dreams inside and outside of school? Connecting your goals to your learning should be motivating..
Finally, sometimes school and life may not be easy, but please don’t give up. Please don’t suffer in silence. Let me know if you need help. Often, I am often not great at picking up on people’s feelings, so tell me, I want to help.