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Course Goals Students in this course are usually in the 9th grade. They commonly have some of the basic facts of science. But Physical science is meant to prepare them for understanding the underlying principles and theories operation of life in biology, chemistry, and how all matter and energy work in the physical universe. These students are in one of the ending phases of the Classical Trivium: The Analytical and Rhetorical Stages. So at this time, rather than simple discovery-based science and the fact-memorizing that was sufficient for the Grammar Stage, we formally enter the world of theories and the critical analysis of these theories based on scientific observation and logic. This course is also a moderately rigorous coverage of the Concepts of Physical Science. It is an important basis on which to build the study of Chemistry, and Physics in high school. The program develops an understanding of the physical principles that govern all matter and energy, problem solving skills that boost mathematical ability and apply the algebra being learned, and an understanding the universe at large. The scientific principles are introduced through student reading of the text, class discussion, working problems and calculations, laboratory exercises, and working out exercises and examples in live class. Teacher Expectation: This course can be a rough transition into upper level high school science but not if good daily study habits are enforced and practiced as they are in this course. Lecture, discussion, and direct instruction using interesting stills and multimedia make classes interesting and fun. We have interactions with students in problem solving and discussions to liven up class and illustrate difficult material. Students will have access to daily lesson plans, self-checking quizzes, online multimedia supplements, virtual lab videos, live and internet help from the instructor, instructor graded tests and exams. Students will be expected to complete chapter tests. There will be weekly live classes to discuss course material, current events if indicated, and controversial issues indicated by the material. Thus, class attendance is mandatory with 5 excused absences for the year allowed. Lively but unfinished discussions can be continued in the class forum. There will be an additional study session weekly to review and study material with fellow students. This gives students an opportunity to bond, socialize a bit, get to know home schooled students about the country, and exchange ideas, as well as help each other learn the material. Many things including live class, puzzling “next-time” questions to think about and post on weekly, self-checking quizzes, multimedia interactive tutorials all help the student in acquiring conceptual understanding of physical science the basis of all future study in science. Explore this course description and email me if you have questions. God Bless, Mrs. Harrison Department Head Dept. of Math and Science Regina Coeli Academy |
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“Science is the organized knowledge of God’s creation.” Sr. Mary Matthew RSM ~a beloved science teacher from my grade school and high school years. |
