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 Welcome to 8 White Science!
 I hope that you are as excited as I am to start off a new school year! This year, you can expect to make many fascinating discoveries about the physical world in this survey class of physical science. We will develop a deeper understanding of matter and its characteristics, the ways in which different substances interact, forces of motion and how they are represented, and the inquiry process in order to recognize and appreciate the intricate connections that we are constantly experiencing- between natural systems and human ones.

 Learning is not just about memorizing facts and taking tests. It is about deepening understanding of concepts, building character and community, and discovering how to learn about everything, not only what you read in a book. Our classroom is a place where all people can feel safe and free to express themselves without fear. Students will be expected to encourage and support one another. I believe that all students have what it takes to be successful in this class and that we will all learn from our mistakes throughout the year. Most of all, I expect students to ask questions! I am not always right!

 Power standards and Essential Questions will frame our learning for each unit, allowing students to understand what is expected of them and what direction we are headed in. In addition to the regular curriculum, you will be participating in a variety of inquiry-based lab activities and projects throughout the year. Inquiry encourages students to ask questions and take responsibility for the outcome. During these lessons, you will work in small lab groups to start developing the creative thinking skills necessary for scientific inquiry and discovery.

 We will all be successful in science this year if we always:

 - put forth our best effort,  - work cooperatively with others,  - maintain a positive and respectful attitude during class,  - and take on responsibility for our learning.

 I will be using this website to "blog" about our classroom experiences each day. Please use it as a reference for homework, to review and make meaning of the information, and reflect on the learning that was done in class.

Best wishes on a meaningful and productive year!

Ms. Pollard