Notes On The Grading Of The Lab Packet: 
 

What Do All Those Numbers Mean And 
Where Is My Student To Get The Information? 

The lab packets are graded in segments, usually 6 in all to be turned in before class begins on the dates indicated in the Table of Contents.  Each segment is assigned a portion of the packet grade and is completed in a variety of ways.  This is how to interpret the numbers and how your student can access the information needed to accomplish the task.  The segments are discussed in the order they are listed found on the Table of Contents page of the lab packet. 

1.  Table of Contents page & Steps To Success:
     Total possible = 10 points 

     I look for: 
     a) name in the upper right corner (no name, I don't grade the 
         packet) Names are required on all papers and tests.  If the 
         paper is returned with a name a participation grade of %50
         will be assigned.  IF this is the ONLY paper the student 
         turns in without a name the grade will be increased to the
         average grade for that student.
     b) complete Table of Contents 
     c) complete the Steps To Success 

A 2 hole punch is available in the classroom, to be used before or after class or as time permits. The Table of Contents is available on the board, TV and web site. 

Class time allotted:  5 minutes or as time permits

2.  The Glossary: 
     Total possible = 40 points 
 

     I look for: 
     a) definitions (13 points) 
     b) examples, visual (27 points) 
 

This information is shared during class as a full class project.  Both the definition and the example are given during class. This is usually accomplished during one session.  The student should copy this from the presentation boards being careful to note any corrections, changes or additions made by the teacher, or, if absent, from the student science dictionary. 
 

Class Time allotted:  1 - 2 class periods (50-100 minutes)

The data tables, graphs and questions are part of each individual lab experience.  The labs will be turned in individually on the date assigned in the Table of Contents and should be placed in the lab folder when returned.  Each lab will be counted 30-50 points depending on the length and complexity of the report. 

3.  Data Tables and Graphs: 
     Total possible = 4-5 points per graph or table 
 

     I look for: 
     a) proper construction and completion of the data table 
     b) accurate completion of graphs with trend lines drawn
         and proper titles and accurately calculated scales.

The data tables are completed during the class period.  The graphs  are homework. 

Class time allotted: 3-6 class periods depending on the subject, 15 minutes per graph for homework 

4.  Questions: 
     Total possible = 20-35 points/lab exercise 
 

     I look for: 
     a) complete thoughtful answers 
     b) support of answers (one word answers are not acceptable) 

The questions can be completed from the lab data or previous  lab data.  Most days are begun with a Q & A session.  I will  help  students think through the question, access data and I give added  information, instruction, and illustrations. 

This added information should be placed in the "notes"  section of the lab.  I place these on the board or TV (from the computer) in both regular and Cornell Note format.  If your student is absent during one of these sessions, they should contact their study buddy who will use the carbonless computer paper to take notes for both of them.

Class time allotted:  75 minutes per week homework and 2-4 days class 

5.  Concept Maps or Directed Reading:
     Total possible = 10 points 
 

     I look for: 
     a) visually pleasing, eye following spacing 
     b) completion of the mapping process or
    c) completion of the Directed Reading from the Directed 
         Reading booklet.  NOTE:  The Directed Reading may be 
         used as extra credit (20 points/lab packet) if completed 
        in addition to the Concept Map.

 
This is completed in class after the post test.  Books can be  checked out from the library or from my room if the student does not complete the process during the time given. 

Class time allotted:  30 minutes 

6.  Journal & Abstract: 
     Total possible = 40 points 
 

      I look for: 
     **See Journal Section (click here)
      See Abstract Appendix H in Yellow Lab Packet
 

Class time allotted: 1 - 2 minutes per night at home

As you can see, the majority of the lab is completed during class.  Sixty-five percent of the grade (represents a C-) is copying or minimal effort.  The questions (35%) are the only part of the lab that the student is primarily responsible for and there is strong support given to help them accomplish the answering of the questions.  I hope this gives you the information you need to help your student succeed to the level of competence which we all want your student to obtain.