Syllabus


 * __ Instructor __**** - ** Kimberly Miller

//webpage:// http://www.cec-physicalscience.wikispaces.com
 * __ Contacts __**** - ** //email:// kimberly.miller@craven.k12.nc.us

Quarterly Tests: (4 @10% each) 40% Class Participation/Quizzes: 20% Notebook Quizzes: (4 @ 5% each) 20% Group Projects: (2 @ 10% each) 20%
 * __ Grades Based On __**** : **

A = 93 – 100% B = 85 – 92% C = 78 – 84% D = 70 – 77% F =69% and below
 * __ Grading Scale: __**

Students will learn to investigate, measure, and analyze (mathematically, graphically, and communicatively) physical science topics.
 * __ Course Goals and Objectives __**** : **

This includes specific learning objectives such as the following: 1. Investigate and analyze forces as interactions that can change motion 2. Investigate and analyze transfer of energy by work 3. Investigate and analyze storage of energy 4. Investigate and analyze transfer of energy by both heating and waves 5. Describe and explain radioactivity and its practical application as an alternative energy source 6. Investigate and analyze the nature of static electricity and the conservation of electrical charge 7. Investigate and analyze direct current electrical circuits 8. Investigate and analyze magnetism and the practical applications of the characteristics of magnets 9. Develop an understanding of how scientific processes have led to the current atomic theory 10. Examine the nature of atomic structure 11. Identify substances through the investigation of physical properties 12. Analyze the periodic trends in the physical and chemical properties of elements 13. Investigate and analyze the formation and nomenclature of simple inorganic compounds 14. Identify the reactants and products of chemical reactions and balance simple equations of various types 15. Measure and analyze the indicators of chemical change 16. Investigate and analyze the properties and composition of solutions

This course will cover concepts and theories relating to the scientific field of physical science. Concepts covered will include motion and forces, energy, matter, atomic structure, chemical bonds, organic compounds, solutions, reactions, acids and bases, waves, lights, and sound, and electricity and magnetism. The students will learn through research, group and individual projects, models, interactive assignments, and application of scientific theories through laboratory experiments.
 * __ Course Themes __**** : **

To pass this course you will need to keep a notebook. This notebook should include any handouts or materials you are assigned in class, lab exercises, and other work as assigned. Four notebook tests will be administered throughout the semester. All assessments will be based on handouts and labs performed in class, and you will be able to use your notes during each assessment. As you progress in your education and your careers, the importance of your ability to take good notes cannot be underestimated. While you can use your notes, on the day of the exam or assessment you must come into class prepared. You will not be able to use the computer, print or access notes or any additional materials, or leave the class once the period starts.
 * __ Notebook Requirement __**** : **

You will have four quarterly assessments this semester. These will include written and verbal quizzes and exams, as well as task-oriented activities, all discussed in advance. Grades will also be based on class participation and behavior. All classes require paying attention and taking detailed notes, which you can use on most assessments, quizzes, and tests. Keeping accurate and complete notes is the key to doing well in all of my classes.
 * __ Assessments __**** : **


 * __ Classroom Rules and Procedures __**** : **
 * Basic Rules **
 * 1) Respect each other.
 * 2) Respect the learning environment.
 * 3) Arrive on time and prepared for class.
 * 4) Listen to the instructions given, and follow them closely, especially during a lab class. We will occasionally be dealing with hazardous materials and equipment, and the safety of you and your classmates is important.


 * Classroom Procedures **
 * Each day, please enter the classroom, take your assigned seat, and work on the bell work problem on the board.
 * If you need assistance, wish to answer or ask a question, or for any other reason wish to get my attention, raise your hand and wait to be called on.
 * Do not interrupt another student when they are speaking, unless called upon to contribute.
 * If you need to leave the classroom for any reason, you must get my permission.
 * At the end of class, please put your chairs back, throw your trash away, and replace any equipment used to its proper location.

** Miscellaneous Items ** // Honesty: // Cheating is unethical and unacceptable. Plagiarism is using information in an assignment without giving credit to the source; it is also unacceptable. Truly dreadful things will happen to you if I find you cheating. // Sharing: // I will listen to all comments, complaints, and suggestions regarding our class. If you learn nothing else from me, I want it to be that humans do best when we work together. The best way for you to have a good class is for us to work together. I believe in sharing experiences that relate to the class, and if you participate, the class will be more rewarding.