Physical Science Spring 2000

Physical Science Instructors – Mr. Shastal and Mr. Potter Office – Rm. 111 Phone # - 668-3111 4th Block Conference [email protected]

Welcome to Physical Science. This course is designed to cover the district’s high school science objectives in physical science and astronomy. The course is aligned with the Michigan Curriculum Framework, upon which the MEAP test is based. Successful completion of this course will prepare the student to take further course work in chemistry, physics, and earth science.

Throughout this semester we are going to share in many experiences and learning opportunities as we explore a variety of topics related to physical science and astronomy. The discipline of science is very large and we could never cover everything in one semester or school year, but we will study many of the key concepts of physical science. We will try and cover the following topics:

First 9 Weeks (Topics in Physics) Second 9 Weeks (Topics in Chemistry & Astronomy)

Motion Atomic Structure of Matter Forces Periodic Table Work & Power Bonding of Atoms Waves & Vibrations Chemical Reactions Electric Circuits Astronomy Electromagnetism Electromagnetic Radiation Energy

METHODS OF INSTRUCTION:

You will be offered a variety of opportunities to learn concepts related to the topics listed above throughout this course. It is your responsibility to take advantage of those opportunities. Instruction will be mostly student-centered. You will be using scientific process throughout the semester to answer questions and make connections. Opportunities to learn will be provided through laboratory experiences, hands-on activities, demonstrations, research projects, guest speakers, reading and writing assignments, audio-visual media, computer technology and classroom discussion. Increasingly, all students must learn to reason, communicate, problem-solve, and work collaboratively. PREREQUITES:

The student must have successfully past algebra or be currently enrolled in algebra to take physical science.

SUGGESTED MATERIALS:

The following materials are highly recommended for this course.

 One –3 ring notebook (at least 1” width)  #2 pencils, blue or black pen  Standard lined paper and graph paper  Calculators (There will days when calculators will be helpful. However, I expect you to do arithmetic calculations involving three or fewer digits without a calculator.)  Ruler

EXPECTATIONS:

Students are expected everyday:

To come to class prepared to study science for the entire class period. To bring the above stated materials and assigned book. To leave food and drink in the locker (with the exception of water). To hand assignments in on the given due date. To make up missed tests, quizzes, and laboratory work outside of class time. To respect the property of the school, teacher and other students.

Do Not Hesitate To Ask For Extra Help:

The best time for make-up work and special help time is after school (2:30 to 3:30) or during P.R.I.D.E. since mornings are often a busy time for teachers as they prepare for that days lessons. If after school time does not work for you just let me know and I will be happy to work with you in finding a time that matches your schedule.

Study Groups Are A Good Idea: If you have friends taking Physical Science, you might want to consider forming a once a week study group to review notes and talk through concepts. A half-hour study group once a week can make a significant difference in your understanding and is an excellent study habit to get into. I will be happy to meet with your study group to answer questions. Absences:

On days when the student is absent, he (she) will be expected to make up the work promptly. If the student knows ahead of time that he (she) will be absent, then I expect the student to get the work and activities ahead of time and turn it in with the rest of the class. On the day before an exam we may review material to be covered, if the student is absent on this day, I expect the student to take the exam on the regularly scheduled time.

Policy on Academic Integrity:

In the academic community the high value placed on truth implies a corresponding intolerance of scholastic dishonesty. Written or other work which the student submits must be the product of their own efforts and must be consistent with the appropriate standards listed below:

Academic dishonesty includes any or all of the following

Cheating on Examinations Plagiarism Fabrication, or Forgery Computer Misuse Misuse of Intellectual Property

GRADES:

Grades will be based on a variety of student works – weekly assignments, laboratory reports, writing assignments, quizzes, tests, and projects. All work will be graded on a point basis with all points being of equal weight toward the marking period grade. A student acquiring the following percentage of the total possible points will receive the corresponding letter grade.

A 100 – 93% A- 92 – 90% B+ 89 – 87%

B 86 – 83% B- 82 – 80% C+ 79 – 77%

C 76 – 73% C- 72 – 70% D+ 69 – 67%

D 66 – 63% D- 62 – 60% E 59% and below

Physical Science ______Student’s Signature Parent/Guardian Signature