Mrs. Breen 8th Grade Science kbreen@htsdnj.org

 Welcome to 8th grade Science with Mrs. Breen (Email: kbreen@htsdnj.org). Email is the best way to reach me. 

I have been a teacher at Reynolds for 21 years. I believe students learn best in an environment that uses various methods and styles to instruct. We use the LATIC (Learner Active Technology Infused Curriculum) system in 8th grade science. This is a program that allows students to learn through the use of various methods, such as reading, questions, drawing, cartooning, watching and creating videos, just to give a few. The students will work independently or in small groups throughout the semester. As the teacher, I will instruct on new materials, then the students will explore, learn and discover using the different assignments that should interest the students throughout the unit. Projects will be used in place of tests in most units. This year we will cover Earth's geological development, Human Impact on the Earth, Evolution and Natural Selection and Chemistry. I look forward to working with your students this semester. 

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS

 - Students will come to class ready to learn. That means that they will have all the needed supplies (pencil, pen, wired ear buds, a binder and computer fully charged) and a positive attitude towards learning. 

- Students will ask questions when unsure about the work or assignment. I am always willing to help, but, unfortunately, cannot read minds (The super power I wish to acquire).

- Participate in class discussions and group work. Working with peers helps to improve understanding. 

- Mistakes are not the end of the world. We learn from our mistakes and move on.

Marking Period Grading Scale (per Hamilton Township Board of Ed)

Summative Grades are 50%

Formative Grades are   40%

Individual Practice is    10%

Please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. kbreen@htsdnj.org     

ATTENTION PARENTS/GUARDIANS                              

Please visit your child's Powerschool Portal to view all upcoming due dates for assessments, projects and homework.

Students will be given 1 WEEK to complete and submit a formative or summative assignment. Teachers will use their discretion about dropping points for late assignments.  If not handed in for partial credit after one week, the assignment will receive a Zero.

Assignments that are not submitted on time will have a “0” place holder UNTIL the assignment is completed and submitted.  Once a grade is placed, the Zero is removed.