Ms. Swinter's Home Page

SWINTER’S SCIENCE MISSION:
To help students understand scientific concepts in a way
that they can actually use them in the real world
and apply them to everyday situations. We will accomplish this
through a variety of techniques:

hands-on labs and other activities
weekly quizzes as opposed to tests
open ended response questions (i.e. How does one achieve mechanical advantage in a pulley system?, Explain the difference between positive and negative buoyancy., What are the effects of glaciers on Illinois?)
grading based on understanding rather than exactness
students will use their basal knowledge to create projects that demonstrate their complete understanding of a concept

TOPICS OF STUDY IN SEVENTH GRADE SCIENCE:

1. Scientific Inquiry
2. Water Systems
3. Fluids
4. Mechanical Advantage and Efficiency
5. Classification/Kingdoms
6. Cells/Genetics
7. Biodiversity
8. Weather
9. Civil War Technology

USEFUL TIPS FOR SUCCESS IN SCIENCE:

Keep all papers as resources
Participate in class (get that hand up and get involved!)
Ask questions (I’m here early and late and I’m available during study hall)
Review material continually
- Read your notes to yourself in front of your mirror!
- Explain a concept to your parents, siblings, or even your dog!
- Draw pictures or diagrams!
- Be creative and disciplined!

CHECK YOUR CHILD’S GRADE ONLINE
Science grades will be updated periodically. To access your child’s grade, you need their I.D. number and PIN number

GRADING POLICY
1. I will give full credit to assignments
turned in on time.
2. I give no credit to assignments turned in late.
3. I accept assignments that are neatly and completely done.

EVENTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO:

New American Theater – Oct. 24

MEET MISS SWINTER:

I am the science teacher for the Trailblazer team. I am a true ‘Belviderian.’ Born and raised in Belvidere, I attended the old Lincoln Elementary School, the Belvidere Jr. High, and the Belvidere High School. While in Belvidere High School, I played French Horn in band, played piano in jazz band, participated in Track & Field, and attended Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

I attended Winona State University to obtain my education degree and am going back to school to learn even more about education. This is my sixth year teaching. While at BCMS, I have taught science, coached track and cross country, and can often be seen chaperoning the school dances.

I enjoy life and most things in it! Some of my favorites include hiking, camping, walking, running, kayaking, playing piano, being in nature, coaching, science, hanging with friends, movies, and ice cream. I have one sister who is 24 years old. She recently got married and now lives in Indianapolis where she is teaching P.E. at a K-4 school there. My mom is a retired Rock Valley College teacher and is currently working in a law office doing what she used to teach. My dad is an industrial salesman and a real handyman everywhere else. I have a kitten named Montana who will turn 3 years old in September.

My motto is R2D2: Respect, Responsibility, Determination, and Discipline. Practice these four skills and your dreams will know no bounds.

I hope you’ll enjoy the Belvidere experience and succeed at all you put your mind to this year. I’ll do my best to aide you in your trail towards success!