Syllabus Science Fiction
2007-2008 School Year
Course Overview
Science fiction
media combine science and pseudoscience for entertainment. According to Purdue University research, science fiction television shows
and films are the strongest influences on students for promoting science (USA
Today, The Magazine of the American Science 2591). Interest in science can be increased and
developed by science fiction. Science
fiction can also help improve attitudes toward real science.
According to
Dubeck and Tatlow (319), “summative evaluation and anecdotal evidence have
shown that using science films in the classroom helps reverse the negative
attitudes many students have toward real science.” And a 2002 National Science
Foundation (NSF) report stated “interest in science fiction may be an important
factor in leading men and women to become interested in science as a career”.
(7-35).
Grading
Polices: Grading will be
comprised of: tests, quizzes, and homework and laboratory reports.
Homework- 20%
of grade (homework given almost everyday)
If you are absent
from class it is necessary that you see me on your return to school to obtain
the homework assignment for that missed period you will be held responsible for
it.
Tests and
Quizzes and Labs 80%
of grade (tests count twice quizzes count once) (Expect a Quiz a week if
not more.)
General Requirements:
1.
Be on
time. You have time to travel between
classes. After the class begins, if you
do not have a pass or excuse from the office or another teacher this may be
reflected in the evaluation of your overall performance in this class.
2.
Always
bring your textbook, notebook (three ring binder type to add handouts), pen and
pencil – all may be needed on any given day, therefore have them with you.
3.
Pencils
will not be sharpened in the middle of class.
4.
No
eating in the lab under any conditions—this is a New York State Regulation
concerning science labs in the state.
5.
Take
care of all school property and equipment.
6.
Do not
horse play. Accidents can result in
damage to expensive equipment or in bodily injury by acids, glass etc.. The science lab is only as safe as your
practices make it.
7.
Raise
your hand if you want to speak, as a rule, one person will speak at a time
everyone else should listen.
8.
No
tipping of chairs
9.
To
prevent injuries, no open toed shoes or sandals should be worn in lab; those
with contact lenses should realize that some chemicals may be potentially
irritating.
10.
MSDS sheets
are available and on file for the chemicals used in laboratory activities and
may be reviewed.
11.
Safety
equipment is always available for student use, and is mandatory to use during
specific types of laboratory activities----ask if you have a safety question---this
type of question takes precedence over all others!
Science
Fiction Weekly Schedule
