Physical Science of Matter

Grades 9-12 - 2007-2008

Mr. Matthew J. Moeller

Course Purpose  Physical Science of Matter is a course in which students will explore the elements, compounds, and mixtures in the physical world around us.

Course GoalPhysical Science of Matter is designed to teach the basic skills necessary to enable students to utilize the steps of the scientific method to solve real-world problems.   Students will study the matter found in the universe of God’s creation and apply that knowledge throughout their lives to make God-pleasing decisions in service to the Savior.

KMLHS Science Department Outcomes

It is the goal of KMLHS Science Department that the students of Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School are faithful servants of God who know and believe:

1.      That God created all things out of nothing in six natural days as is recorded in Genesis ch. 1.

2.      That God, as the Preserver, cares and provides for each of His creatures.

Graduates of the KMLHS Science Department will be:

1.   Perceptive thinkers who distinguish between the changing nature of science and the unchanging nature of God.

2.   Quality producers who use experimental procedures and problem-solving skills.

3.   Knowledgeable and responsible stewards who incorporate scientific concepts and theories as they make wise decisions about the use of the gifts of God’s creation.

4.   Life-long learners who evaluate scientific discoveries in the light of God’s Word.

5.   Collaborative contributors who can integrate scientific knowledge and skills into their occupations and personal lives.

Course Textbook -  Active Physical Science, 2005

Course Outcomes - The students will be able to:

1.    Establish, revise, evaluate and complete goals for themselves and their cooperative learning groups in the area of physical science with respect to problem-solving skills, critical- thinking skills, communication skills, making scientific connections, cooperative skills, and use of technology.

2.      Apply the themes of science to develop realistic visions of the future (A.12.1)

3.      Re-examine the evidence and reasoning that led to conclusions drawn from investigations using science themes (A.12.7).

4.      When studying science content, ask questions suggested by current social issues, scientific literature, and observations of phenomena; build hypotheses that might answer some of these questions; design possible investigations; and describe results that might emerge from such investigations (C.12.1).

5.      Identify issues from an area of science study, write questions that could be investigated, review previous research on these questions, and design and conduct responsible and safe investigations to help answer the questions (C.12.2 ).

6.      Evaluate the data collected during an investigation, critique the data-collection procedures and results, and suggest ways to make any needed improvements (C.12.3).

7.      During investigations, choose the best data-collection procedures and materials available, use them competently, and calculate the degree of precision of the resulting data (C.12.4).

8.      Use the explanations and models found in physical science to develop likely explanations for the results of their investigations (C.12.5).

9.      Present the results of investigations to groups concerned with the issues, explaining the meaning and implications of the results, and answering questions in terms the audience can understand (C.12.6).

10.    Describe atomic structure and the properties of atoms, molecules, and matter during physical and chemical interactions (D.12.1).

11.    Using the science themes, explain common occurrences in the physical world (D.12.12).

12.    Design, build, evaluate, and revise models and explanations related to physical science that are also in agreement with Scripture (G.12.2).

Unit Outcomes

The Nature of Science  - Chemistry in the News and in My Life

The students will be able to:

1.      Analyze their learning styles and select study methods that are most effective for them.

2.      Organize notes and course materials with a method that meets my learning style and is effective.

3.      Establish, adjust, and complete individual and group goals.

4.      Define physical science as the study of the matter and energy created by God.

5.      Utilize the scientific method to solve problems.

6.      Describe the relationship between changing science and unchanging Scripture (B.12.6).

7.      Differentiate between safe, effective laboratory procedures and those that are unsafe and ineffective.

8.      Perform measurements and conversions using SI units.

9.      Convert numbers from scientific to standard notations. 

10.  Gather data and create graphs, charts, diagrams, and outlines to organize the data.

11.  Analyze scientific information.

12.  Summarize, analyze, and evaluate main ideas of an article that deals with chemistry.

13.  Apply the themes of science to develop realistic visions of the future (A.12.1).

14.  Choose items to be used in a physical science of matter portfolio.

15.  Establish an effective plan to successfully prepare for the physical science of matter exam.

16.  During investigations, choose the best data-collection procedures and materials available, use them competently, and calculate the degree of precision of the resulting data (C.12.4).

Movie Special Effects – Chapter 10 (pgs. 623-690) – I will be able to:

1.      Define and apply the following physical science concepts: mass, weight, length, width, height, volume, states of matter, solids, liquids, gases, change of state, heat, temperature, Boyle’s Law, Charles’ Law, density, physical properties, chemical properties, physical changes, chemical changes, metals, nonmetals, solutions, suspensions, colloids, metals, nonmetals, metalloids, alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, and transition metals.

2.      Give examples that show how partial systems, models, and explanations are used to give quick and reasonable solutions that are accurate enough for basic needs (A.12.3).

3.      Construct arguments that show how conflicting models and explanations of events can start with similar evidence (A.12.4).

4.      Identify and use evidence learned or discovered to replace inaccurate personal models and explanations of science-related themes (A.12.6).

5.      Re-examine the evidence and reasoning that led to conclusions drawn from investigations using science themes (A.12.7).

6.      Relate the major themes of science to human progress in understanding science and the world (B.12.3).

7.      Explain how science is based on assumptions about the natural world and themes that describe the natural world (B.12.5).

8.      Identify issues from an area of science study, write questions that could be investigated, review previous research on these questions, and design and conduct responsible and safe investigations to help answer the questions (C.12.2 ).

9.      Evaluate the data collected during an investigation, critique the data-collection procedures and results, and suggest ways to make any needed improvements (C.12.3).

10.    During investigations, choose the best data-collection procedures and materials available, use them competently, and calculate the degree of precision of the resulting data (C.12.4).

11.    Use the explanations and models found in physical science to develop likely explanations for the results of their investigations (C.12.5).

12.    Present the results of investigations to groups concerned with the issues, explaining the meaning and implications of the results, and answering questions in terms the audience can understand (C.12.6).

13.    Have an understanding of the changing nature of science exhibited by the changing atomic theories (D.12.2).

14.    Explain how substances both simple and complex, interact with one another to produce new substances (D.12.5).

15.    Identify patterns in chemical and physical properties and use them to predict likely chemical and physical changes and interactions (D.12.6).

16.    Using the science themes, explain common occurrences in the physical world (D.12.12).

17.    Design, build, evaluate, and revise models and explanations related to physical science that are also in agreement with Scripture (G.12.2).

18.    Advocate a solution or combination of solutions to a problem in science or technology (H.12.4).

19.    Investigate how current plans or proposals concerning resource management, scientific knowledge or technological development will have an impact on the environment, ecology, and quality of life in a community or region (H.12.5).

20.    Evaluate data and sources of information when using scientific information to make decisions (H.12.6).

21.    When making decisions, construct a plan that includes the use of current scientific knowledge, scientific reasoning, and Biblical principles (H.12.7)

Milk Jug Raft Project – I will be able to:

1.      Define and apply the following physical science concepts: mass, weight, length, width, height, volume, solids, liquids, gases, buoyancy, Archimedes’ Principle, and Bernoulli’s Principle.

2.      Re-examine the evidence and reasoning that led to conclusions drawn from investigations using science themes (A.12.7).

3.      Use the explanations and models found in physical science to develop likely explanations for the results of their investigations (C.12.5).

4.      Using the science themes, explain common occurrences in the physical world (D.12.12).

5.      Design, build, evaluate, and revise models and explanations related to physical science that are also in agreement with Scripture (G.12.2).

The Periodic Table – Chapter 11 (pgs. 692-768) – I will be able to:

1.      Define and apply the following physical science concepts: mass, weight, parts of the atom, periodic table of elements, atomic number, atomic mass, molecules, compounds, element symbols, radioactive elements, ionic bond, covalent bond, isotopes, metals, nonmetals, metalloids, alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, electron configuration, periodic law.

2.      Give examples that show how partial systems, models, and explanations are used to give quick and reasonable solutions that are accurate enough for basic needs (A.12.3).

3.      Construct arguments that show how conflicting models and explanations of events can start with similar evidence (A.12.4).

4.      Identify and use evidence learned or discovered to replace inaccurate personal models and explanations of science-related themes (A.12.6).

5.      Re-examine the evidence and reasoning that led to conclusions drawn from investigations using science themes (A.12.7).

6.      Show how cultures and individuals have contributed to the development of major ideas in the physical sciences (B.12.1).

7.      Identify the cultural conditions that are usually present during great periods of discovery, scientific development, and intervention (B.12.2).

8.      Relate the major themes of science to human progress in understanding science and the world (B.12.3).

9.      Show how basic research and applied research contribute to new discoveries, inventions, and applications (B.12.4).

10.  Explain how science is based on assumptions about the natural world and themes that describe the natural world (B.12.5).

11.  Describe the relationship between changing science and unchanging Scripture (B.12.6).

12.  Identify issues from an area of science study, write questions that could be investigated, review previous research on these questions, and design and conduct responsible and safe investigations to help answer the questions (C.12.2 ).

13.  Evaluate the data collected during an investigation, critique the data-collection procedures and results, and suggest ways to make any needed improvements (C.12.3).

14.  During investigations, choose the best data-collection procedures and materials available, use them competently, and calculate the degree of precision of the resulting data (C.12.4).

15.  Use the explanations and models found in physical science to develop likely explanations for the results of their investigations (C.12.5).

16.  Present the results of investigations to groups concerned with the issues, explaining the meaning and implications of the results, and answering questions in terms the audience can understand (C.12.6).

17.  Have an understanding of the changing nature of science exhibited by the changing atomic theories (D.12.2).

18.  Explain the forces that hold the atom together and illustrate how nuclear interactions change the atom (D.12.3).

19.  Explain the exchanges of energy in chemical interactions and exchange of mass and energy in atomic/nuclear reactions (D.12.4).

20.  Using the science themes, explain common occurrences in the physical world (D.12.12).

21.  Design, build, evaluate, and revise models and explanations related to physical science that are also in agreement with Scripture (G.12.2).

22.  Choose a specific problem in our society, identify alternative scientific or technological solutions to that problem, and argue its merits (G.12.5).

Cool Chemistry Show – Chapter 12 (pgs. 770-832) – I will be able to:

1.      Define and apply the following physical science concepts: physical properties, chemical properties, physical changes, chemical changes, molecules, compounds, element symbols, chemical formulas, chemical reactions, chemical equations, synthesis reaction, decomposition reaction, single replacement reaction, double displacement reaction, acids, bases, ph scale, law of conservation of mass, electron configuration

2.      Show how the ideas and themes of science can be used to make real-life decisions about careers, work places, life-styles, and use of resources (A.12.5 ).

3.      Identify and use evidence learned or discovered to replace inaccurate personal models and explanations of science-related themes (A.12.6).

4.      Re-examine the evidence and reasoning that led to conclusions drawn from investigations using science themes (A.12.7).

5.      Show how basic research and applied research contribute to new discoveries, inventions, and applications (B.12.4).

6.      Explain how science is based on assumptions about the natural world and themes that describe the natural world (B.12.5).

7.      When studying science content, ask questions suggested by current social issues, scientific literature, and observations of phenomena; build hypotheses that might answer some of these questions; design possible investigations; and describe results that might emerge from such investigations (C.12.1).

8.      Evaluate the data collected during an investigation, critique the data-collection procedures and results, and suggest ways to make any needed improvements (C.12.3).

9.      During investigations, choose the best data-collection procedures and materials available, use them competently, and calculate the degree of precision of the resulting data (C.12.4).

10.  Use the explanations and models found in physical science to develop likely explanations for the results of their investigations (C.12.5).

11.  Present the results of investigations to groups concerned with the issues, explaining the meaning and implications of the results, and answering questions in terms the audience can understand (C.12.6).

12.  Describe atomic structure and the properties of atoms, molecules, and matter during physical and chemical interactions (D.12.1).

13.  Have an understanding of the changing nature of science exhibited by the changing atomic theories (D.12.2).

14.  Explain the exchanges of energy in chemical interactions and exchange of mass and energy in atomic/nuclear reactions (D.12.4).

15.  Explain how substances both simple and complex, interact with one another to produce new substances (D.12.5).

16.  Through investigations, identify the types of chemical interactions, including endothermic, exothermic, oxidation, photosynthesis, and acid/base reactions (D.12.7).

17.  Using the science themes, illustrate the law of conservation of energy during chemical and nuclear reactions (D.12.11).

18.  Using the science themes, explain common occurrences in the physical world (D.12.12).

19.  Using the science themes and knowledge of chemical, physical, atomic, and nuclear interactions, explain changes in materials, living things, earth’s features, and stars (D.12.13).

20.  Identify personal interests in science and technology; account for implications that these interests might have for future education and decisions to be considered (G.12.1).

21.  Design, build, evaluate, and revise models and explanations related to physical science that are also in agreement with Scripture (G.12.2).

Instructional Strategies

Establishing Individual and Group Goals - 5%

Lecture/Discussion - 20%

Guided Research and Study - 10%

Laboratory Experiments – 30%

Individual Work on Projects – 10%

Cooperative Work on Projects – 20%

Student Presentations – 5%

Grading

Students will be graded on their ability to master the goals of the course.    Projects, tests, quizzes, lab assignments, and daily assignments will be evaluated to determine each student’s progress in meeting the goals. I will select assignments to grade that give an accurate picture of the student’s progress.    The students will also be made aware of many diverse opportunities to obtain extra credit to improve their grades.   A maximum of three extra credit points can be earned each quarter.

Assignments are to be completed by the assigned day (usually the next school day).  All daily assignments that are turned in late will be scored as 50%.   If a project or lab assignment is not completed on time, the assignment will be lowered one grade for each school day that it is late.  For example, if an assignment is due on Monday, but not turned in until Wednesday, an “A” score will be lowered to a “C” because it is two days late.  The lowest score a student can receive on a completed assignment is a 50%.   A maximum of one assignment (test, quiz, project, daily assignment, etc.) can be redone each quarter.  

 If a student is absent on the day an assignment is collected or assigned, the student is required to turn in the assignment within three school days of his/her return to class.  If a parent feels that there is a good reason why his/her child was not able to complete an assignment on time, that parent is asked to write a note explaining that reason, and if the excuse is valid the grade will not be lowered. 

All assignments that are collected for evaluation will be graded and posted on the Internet on the Parent Connect web site as soon as possible.   I often use the weekends to keep up with the correcting.   In order to help ensure that all are aware of the student’s progress, I will also e-mail grade reports on the first day of the school week.   If e-mailing the reports isn’t possible and/or effective, parents will be given an opportunity to request that grade reports be printed and distributed to the student.  Lists of missing assignments will be posted in classroom as well.

If a student’s assignment is not completed at the time the grades are entered, a score of zero will be entered.    As soon as the assignment is completed, the new grade will be entered.   If a student fails to complete an assignment by the end of the semester, a score of 0% will be given for that assignment.  Failing to complete any assignments will severely lower the student’s semester grade.  Failing to complete major assignments will result in failure of the course.

Each student’s final grade will be based on the following estimated percent scale:

Lab Activities –  20%  -  The students will be graded on their ability to practice cooperative and laboratory skills during the lab activities.  In addition, students will be evaluated on their ability to complete a lab successfully and critically examine the data collected.   The student will be required to complete two lab reports and two lab sheets during the course. 

Projects – 35% - The students will be assigned various projects to demonstrate their ability to use their scientific knowledge, be creative and responsible, and to work with others.  Projects are considered to be major assignments.   This means that a student will not receive credit for the course if he/she fails to complete a project.   If a major project is not completed on time and does not have a legitimate excuse, I will alert the student, parent(s), guidance office, and the activities director so that they may encourage the student to complete the assignment.   If a student has not completed the major assignment within three days of this notification, the student will be placed on incomplete status which will exclude him/her from practicing or performing in any extra-curricular groups until the assignment is completed.

Daily Assignments - 15% - At various times the students’ daily assignments and class notes will be collected, reviewed, and graded.  This portion of the student’s grade will also reflect the student’s preparation for class. 

Quizzes 10% – Periodically, the students will be given quizzes on information that was covered in class or that was to be read.

Tests – 20% - Tests will be given for each chapter to evaluate the student’s progress.

Student Materials

The students will be expected to bring the following materials for each class period:

2 pencils, 2 pens, TI-83 or 84 calculator, four extra AAA batteries, flash drive for saving computer files, loose-leaf paper, binder with five inserted tabs, textbook, and student planner.

Classroom Procedures

Our Lord has commanded us in his Holy Word to fear, love, and trust in him above all things, to honor those he has placed in authority over us, and to love our neighbor as ourselves.  With these commands in mind, the constant guidance of all parts of Scripture in everything we do, and the following rules, which have been established for the organization, productivity and safety of the students, the students will grow spiritually, intellectually, and socially throughout the school year.  The love of our Lord Jesus who suffered all things for us will motivate us to serve our Savior in everything we do to the best of our ability.  The students will be required to: