Welcome to Physical Science.     I hope this first day letter will better acquaint you with the objectives of this course and allow you to become more comfortable in this new environment as we attempt to investigate the physical sciences.

 

   Physical Science is a composite, a course that attempts to merge together the disciplines of chemistry, physics, mathematics, computers, and extensive use of the laboratory.  For many of you this will be the first time an application of your math skills will be needed in your science classroom.  If the math we encounter is difficult for you please ask for extra help so your grades as well as your confidence will be enhanced.

 

   More than ever before we will stress laboratory investigation and the analysis of the collected information.  Group work and mastery of the techniques and concepts involved, along with safety, will be stressed.  Several competitive events will be scheduled such as balloon races, projectile target practice, and games involving gas laws and balancing equations.

 

   We will begin with a study of safety and lab techniques that will be used throughout the year.  A short math and measurement review comes next.  A quick study of metallurgy and alchemy will cover some of the historical background for the physical sciences.  A thorough study of the structure of matter will follow.  Then as we approach Christmas another tool, the Periodic Table, will be utilized to study the structure of atoms and molecules.

 

  The last topics in chemistry will include naming chemicals, chemical reactions, and a bit of the math in chemistry.   A partial list of chemistry labs include learning to use Bunsen burners, finding the density of mysterious substance and radioactivity.  During the rest of the third nine weeks we will investigate heat and temperature as they relate to the different states of matter.  Labs include identifying crystalline compounds, measuring the specific heat of metals and antifreeze and the heat given off by burning candles.

 

   During the fourth nine weeks we will study kinematics (the study of the moving objects.)  We will look at forces, velocities, accelerations, gravity, and different types of energy.  Labs during this nine weeks include measuring the acceleration of gravity in free fall, using a near frictionless air track system, and projectiles.  We will use our new textbooks to review waves, sound, optics, electricity, and magnetism.

 

    Approximately 55% of your nine week's grade will come from major assignments such as tests and lab reports.  The other half will include homework, projects, and small quizzes.  It is vital that you turn in all assignments.  The use of my website: (www.sciencebyjones.com) will help both the student and parent know upcoming assignments and information to be tested.

 

 I hope we can make these enjoyable challenges.  Please spend 10-15 minutes looking over what we covered in class (each day of class). 

  

You will usually have a handout sheet to read for the next class.  If you don't understand something, write a question or two in the margin of your notes and ask them at the beginning of the next class period.  In the past those students that did well in this class studied at least a few minutes for every class, asked serious questions, did all the homework assignments, were willing to admit when they did not understand, worked with due dates in mind, and started studying for test several days before the actual test.  Exams are very important and new to many ninth graders.  Several new techniques will be introduced to help students prepare for them.

 

   Let's share in the goals of the class; respect for each other, and the desire to gain a better understanding of the interaction of chemistry and physics in our lives.  Future science classes will then be far more meaningful.  If we work together we can make this class enjoyable, worthwhile for YOU, and one you look forward to.  With your effort to develop an interest in your own education you may find it easy to motivate yourself for your own dynamic future.