Physical Science is a course deigned to introduce
you to the sciences of Physics and Chemistry.
You will be working in lab groups to conduct
many hands-on experiments that are
designed to help you understand the
science principles, laws, and theories that
we will discuss in class. Many of these labs
involve using lab burners, beakers, ring
stands, test tubes, and other lab equipment.
I truly believe that Science is a hands-on subject. Yes there are some great online / virtual simulations that do a fine job, but nothing can compare to or replace the experience and knowledge gained from working in the physical lab area. Rest assured, that it is my intention to give you as many hands-on lab opportunities as I safely can this year.
Below are some of the topics that we will cover this year.
Physical Science Topics of Study
-
The SI system of measurement (The Scientific Standard System)
-
Engineering Design Process and Problem Solving.
-
Experimental Design and Valid Experiments
-
Types of Energy (Thermal, Potential, Nuclear, etc.)
-
Understanding Density
-
States of Matter
-
Principles of Fluids
-
Classification of Matter
-
Atomic structure
-
The Periodic Table
-
Chemical vs Physical
-
Chemical Reactions and Bonds
-
Acids, Bases, and Salts
-
Waves: Sound, Light, & Electromagnetic
-
Forces
-
Laws of Motion
-
Simple Machines
Student Resources
Student Resources
There are many resources to help you through your journey of Physical Science found on the STUDENT RESOUCES Page of my website. Click the blue button at the top the website to go that page.
Resources include: Individual Unit resource pages, PDF version of our Physical Science Book, the complete Disney Imagineering video series, Science World monthly magazine, PSSA review, WebQuest, Individual lab resources, and much more. The one that students will often use the most is the Unit Resource Pages. Clicking on the GREEN button will take you to the Unit Resource Pages.
A lot of the lessons are also recorded. (Those that are not are currently being working on and will be added soon) This is the best way to get the missed information or review a topic. The Study Guides all have posted Answer keys. It is best to treat the study guide like a Practice Test. Try it and then check your answers. Since this class will test you more on the APPLICATION of your new knowledge rather than pure memorization, coping the answers or "studying" the study guide will do you little good since you will not see those exact questions on the test.
Unit Resource pages include: ALL of the PowerPoint Notes that will be used in class, Blank Note-Taking Guides, completed note taking guides (Available upon Parent Request), Helpful video links, Prelab videos, Other resources, The Unit STUDY GUIDE!