Welcome To 7th Grade Life Science...

    Dear Parents...

    What an amazing world we live in!

     Mrs. Cerasi and I have the honor of sharing your children this year as we examine life in its many different forms, explore the wonders of biodiversity at all levels, and also study the fascinating domain of the almost (but not quite) living world of viruses.

     We'll begin with an overview of what distinguishes science from other disciplines, focusing on such topics as scientific thought which, in turn, leads to the scientific method, appropiate laboratory safety and procedures, and so forth.

     Before moving on to the six kingdoms of living organisms, we'll examine the life-like--but yet non-living-- world of viruses...truly, a script which science fiction films could (and probably have been) be made from.

     After a study of viruses, we'll proceed to how life and living organisms are defined...the specific requirements, and so forth. We'll examine the building blocks of all organisms--cells and their structure--as we focus on both unicellular and multicellular organisms.

     Dealing with so many different life forms--from unicellular bacteria and fungi to giant blue whales--requires that we have a way to distinguish and classify them. Students will learn how this is done in science, as well as how organisms are named. Living systems will also be studied.

     At this point, we will now be ready to explore the six different kingdoms of living organisms. Hands-on lab studies will be integrated throughout the year's work.

     Since all life involves interactions between both non-living and living things, students will explore various topics in ecological and environmental science. Among these will be the relationship between the abiotic factors (which compose the physical environment) and the various biological communities which make up ecosystems; energy flow and balance within those systems; and ecological change--both natural and man-induced.

     Symbiotic relationships, the essential role of natural cycles/recycling, and other subjects will also be covered in our ecology unit. Case studies in wetland ecosytems, the pesticide dilemma, and so forth may be utilized as time permits--including field studies in biodiversity and marine and estuarine ecology in various habitats in the vicinity of Matanzas Inlet.

     We will use a mix of individual and cooperative/team learning experiences in class activities.

     Grades will be weighted, and tests will count more than labs or assignments. Research projects (scored as test grades) and extra credit opportunities may also be made available.

     Students will always be given at least five days advance notice--usually over a week--before major assignments are due or tests are given. These will be posted on the wall, and students will be expected to write them in their student planners. Students and parents should check these planners often.

     I will be available for extra help, if needed, and (of course) expect that all students will come to class with a positive attitude, ready to learn and allowing others to do likewise.

     If I can be of any help, please call me at 386-446-6732.

     I am looking forward to a great year with your children...my students.

     Thanks for visiting my website!

      All my best...

      Mr. Honigman