Oceanography
Join us as we set sail on a research expedition to explore the marine environment. Our expedition will
leave from Chesapeake Bay and travel around the Earth investigating the many habitats and organisms of the
oceans. As a crew member, you will be conducting research, performing experiments, and discovering man's
interrelationship with the marine environment.
The purpose of the Oceanography course is to provide an overview of the marine environment. The content
includes the nature of science, the origins of the oceans, the chemical and physical structure of the marine
environment, ecology of the various sea zones, marine communities, and the interrelationship between man
and the ocean. Laboratory investigations will include the use of the scientific method and measurement.
Course Objectives:
After successfully completing this course, the student will:
1. Apply knowledge of the nature of science and scientific habits of mind to
solve problems, and employ safe and effective use of laboratory and field
technologies.
2. Describe the unique physical characteristics of the marine environment.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of marine communities, food chains, and food
webs
4. Describe the physical and biological characteristics of the planktonic,
benthic, and nektonic regions of the oceans.
5. Explain how the physical and chemical properties of seawater and
geology of the ocean basin shape the nature of oceanic life.
6. Compare the diverse characteristics of representatives of the major
phyla/divisions represented in marine systems.
7. Describe the interrelationship between man and the ocean environment
and the need for protection of the natural systems on Earth.
8. Describe the present and potential resources of the ocean.
9. Describe how marine science interacts with technology and society.
Course Materials:
Ocean Planet: Writings and Images of the Sea (Benchley
& Gradwhol)
Oceanography: An Invitation to Marine Science, Garrison, New York, Wadsworth Publishing Company,
1996.
Grading Policy
Your grade will be determined using a point system. Points will be earned through homework assignments, textbook checks, laboratory reports, projects, quizzes and tests. Students will also be expected to keep an organized notebook. Each student will be responsible for continuously evaluating his performance and progress throughout the school year. The quarter grade can be calculated by dividing the points possible into the points recieved and then multiplying by 100.
This percentage will then be converted to a letter grade, based upon the Fairfax County grading scale
|
94-100=A |
|
90-93=B+ |
|
84-89=B |
|
80-83=C+ |
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74-79=C |
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70-73=D+ |
|
64-69=D |
The yearly grade will be determined by adding the numerical average of each of the four quarter grades, independent project, and the score received on the final exam, then dividing by six. Fairfax County guidelines give teachers the option of assigning a final grade based on performance trend. If a student shows steady improvement throughout the year, I may assign a final grade higher than the numerical average. Just as if a student’s level of performance declines throughout the year, I may assign a grade lower than the numerical average.
CLASSROOM POLICIES
· You are expected to come to class prepared. This includes bringing a pencil or pen, three ring notebook, lab book, graph paper, ruler, colored pencils and a covered textbook.
· You will need to have access to your school network account as well as several floppy discs.
· You are expected to be in your seat when the bell rings, not running down the hall and sticking your foot in the door as the bell is ringing. Students who are frequently tardy will serve detention. This is in addition to the school policy, which requires me to notify your principal for every 3 unexcused tardies and/or 1 unexcused absence.
· Assignments will not be accepted late. You have one day to make up missed work for every day you are out of class with the exception of pre-arranged absences in which case the details of your missed work will be worked out before you leave. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain all make up work after any absence from class. A class activity log will be available in class which will list the daily activities and homework. It will be the responsibility of the student to check this log immediately upon return to class.
· Cheating will not be tolerated. Unless otherwise stated, all homework, laboratory reports, quizzes and tests should reflect only your work. If you are caught cheating, you will receive a zero for the assignment and your parents will be notified. All scientists collaborate on their work. They do not, however, copy each other’s data, results and conclusions. Likewise you may work together to gather and compare data. Questions and conclusions should reflect only your work.
· Beverages, food and candy are not permitted in this classroom.
