Physical Science Course Syllabus

Course Name: Physical Science                                             
I Course Information
Course Number: 4032
Level: Academic Core
Department: Science

II Course Description
Prerequisite: Biology
Open to: Sophomores
Length: Year
Credit: 1
Summary: Physical Science is a laboratory based class taught with a “hands-on” approach.  In this course, labs are done on a daily basis and students are expected to participate daily.  During the first semester, the focus is chemistry; during second semester, the class focus is physics. 

III Course Goals
1.  Use inquiry, reasoning and critical thinking skills to assess and analyze chemical and physical phenomena.
2.  Understand and apply the scientific process skills to answer questions and solve problems within a chemical and physical context.
3.  Use collaborative groups to conduct scientific investigations and share ideas.
4.  Identify, understand, and appreciate the connection between chemical and physical concepts and applications within the everyday world.
5.  Provide opportunities for students to utilize educational institutions, programs, and technologies. 

IV Textbooks and Materials
Science Explorer: Physical Science, by: Padilla, Miaoulis, Cyr, Ph.D’s  

V  Course Outline
First Semester
Units of Instruction:
I.              Dimensional Analysis
II.            Density
III.           Periodic Table
IV.           Nomenclature and Ions
V.            Acids and Bases
VI.           Chemical Equations
            Major Assessments: unit tests and quizzes

Second Semester Units of Instruction and Assessments:
Units of Instruction:
I.            Bridge Building
II.            Electricity
III.           Simple Machines
IV.           Motion
          Major Assessments:  unit tests and quizzes

 

(Parents and students: please consult individual teachers for grading policies, extra credit info, class procedures, etc.)