Course Description
Physical Science is an interactive and engaging course that covers the sciences of chemistry and physics. The course begins with a unit on the nature of science and a review of measurement and its importance. The course proceeds with the study of chemical principles, exposing students to topics such as the properties of matter, the structure of the atom, the formation of bonds, and the properties of solutions. The course then moves to the science of physics, describing the topics of motion, force, work, and energy. Students apply their knowledge of these topics through problems, explanations, graphs, and virtual lab activities.

Course Breakdown

The scientific method
Data analysis
Pure substances and mixtures
Chemical and physical properties
Phase changes
Gas laws
Atomic structure
Electron arrangement
Chemical bonding
Chemical reactions
Formation of solutions
Acids and bases
Organic chemicals
Nuclear chemistry Distance and displacement
Speed and velocity
Acceleration
Projectiles
Newton’s three laws of motion
Momentum and collisions
Work and power
Machines and their advantages
Kinetic and potential energy
Thermodynamics
Wave motion
Electrical circuits

Course Goals
Explore the foundations of science, including the scientific methods and data analysis.
Compare and contrast physical and chemical processes, including phase transitions and gas laws.
Describe the structure of atom and how the arrangement of electrons affects the properties of the elements and their combining to make compounds.
Distinguish among chemical reactions, nuclear reactions, and the dissolving of materials to make solutions.
Summarize the nature of organic compounds and fossil fuels.
Apply the terms velocity, acceleration, displacement, and time in linear and curved systems.
Apply and utilize Newton’s laws of motion for a linear system.
Analyze energy and momentum conservation principles.
Describe work and power and the functioning of simple machines.
Summarize how energy is transferred in the form of heat, waves, and electricity.