Physical Science - Physics Syllabus

Saint Peter Middle and Senior High School

Course Syllabus

Name of Course: Physical Science – Physics Quarter

Grade Level(s): 9

Instructor: Mr. McClintock

Course Description:

Physical Science is an initial look at the physical aspects of nature and our society. It is an introductory course encompassing Chemistry (the study of matter) and Physics (the study of energy). This section of the course will study the process of physics (energy) in our world. The student will be introduced to the history, tools and methods used in science. An emphasis will be given to laboratory exercises, techniques, and safety.

Physical science is actually a composite of many different learning skills. Competency in reading, writing, and mathematics is required. The mathematics level recommended is first semester Algebra I. Passing Physical Science, both Chemistry and Physics quarters, is mandatory for all ninth grade students.

Course Objectives:

1. To introduce the basic principles of physics.

2. To reinforce lab skills and lab safety.

Units covered in the course and major topics:

1. Mechanics (motion, forces, pressure, work and energy).

2. Heat Energy.

3. Waves (sound and wave properties).

4. Electromagnetic Radiation (magnetism, electricity and light).

5. Nuclear Energy

Text(s) and Supplemental Materials: Physical Science, Prentice Hall, 1999.

Formal Evaluation (final test/assessment description): Quarter final exam.

Unit assessments: Chapter tests, lab write-ups, lecture notes, worksheets, and class assignments

Grading Policies:

Grades will be computed, approximately, on the following divisions of work:

Approximate Grading Weights Grading Scale

Experiments 25-35% A+ = 98 - 100% C+ = 78 - 79%

Daily work 25-35% A = 92 - 97% C = 72 - 77%

Tests & Quizzes 35-45% A- = 90 - 91% C- = 70 - 71%

B+ = 88 - 89% D+ = 68 - 69%

B = 82 - 87% D = 62 - 67%

B- = 80 - 81% D- = 60 - 61%

F = 0 - 59%

Note: The Final Exam counts as two tests in the quarter (9 wks).

Student/Classroom Requirements:

1. Students are expected to be prepared and ready for work each class. Books, pencils, and paper are the student's responsibility. If a student is unexcused tardy, that student will owe an equal amount of time to this classroom before or after school the next day. Failure to make time up promptly will result in detention plus the requirement of making time up in the classroom as stated above.

3. All students are to read the "Laboratory Safety Contract". The student and their parent/guardian are to both sign and return one copy of the contract to the instructor. All students must show mastery of these safety rules by passing a "Safety Quiz" with an 80%. If the student does not pass they will be allowed to retest on the next school day; unlimited attempts, but only one per day. The student will NOT be permitted to participate in lab work until all requirements are met. Work missed will not receive credit.

2. Conduct will follow the four "Self-Discipline Rules" posted in the classroom and the "Laboratory Safety Contract" issued to each student.

4. Students are required to keep a science notebook. This is to be a loose-leaf, 3-ring binder! (Other types of notebooks are acceptable, but do not work as well.) This notebook is to contain notes, lab reports, daily work and any other class papers.

5. All work is to be done neatly in pencil. Work not done in pencil or illegible may be returned to be redone with a probable loss of credit.

6. Work is due when assigned. Late work will be severely down-graded and after one week, not accepted.

7. The use of all electronic devices for any purpose other than those specificaly assigned by the instructor is strictly forbidden. Failure to comply with this policy will result in the immediate confiscation of the electronic device and additional consequences according to school policy.

8. If a student is absent, the student will be required to make-up lab work as well daily work. At times, this may mean outside of the normal school day. It is the student's responsibility to obtain notes and complete assignments missed due to absence. (A "study" friend is a good idea!)

9. If a student needs help or additional lab time, the lab will be open each Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday after school. The student is asked to contact the instructor before coming in after school.

10. Questions are strongly encouraged! If a student needs help, they should feel free to contact the instructor for assistance. Additional aid, work or study time can be arranged. Remember, this is your education!! Take part in it!