Physical Science Syllabus 2013-14

Overall, the purpose of this course is to enable you to understand:

· Metric and English measuring systems and how they are related, and to use both confidently

· The current model of the structure of the atom, including quantized electron energy levels

· Measurement and analysis of sources and uses of energy in the world economy

· The differences in the structure and characteristics of the different states of matter

The skills you will work on throughout the year include:

· Proper use of various measuring tools

· Unit conversion

· Data analysis

· Graph creation & interpretation

· Technical reading & writing

· Problem solving techniques

The course is organized around units, each covering a general topic area with specific learning goals as shown below.   A major component of each unit is a hands-on project that will allow you to apply and demonstrate your understanding of the key learning goals.

Unit	Topics / Outcomes
1	Measurement, Graphing and Unit Conversion An understanding of  ‘scientific language’ is necessary in order to learn from the work of scientists throughout the world.  The ability to properly use standard measuring tools, to convert units from one measurement system to another, and to express the level of accuracy of data and calculations through the use of significant figures are prerequisite to appreciation of this ever-expanding field. Take precise measurements using meter sticks, protractors, graduated cylinders, and scales/balances Estimate the metric mass, length, volume, area, or duration of a given object/event Include correct units with all measured and/or calculated values Use measured values to determine metric/metric and metric/English conversion factors Convert length, mass, temperature, volume, and area values within the metric or English measurement systems Characterize the relationship between equivalent metric and English measurements, through data collection and analysis, in order to determine relevant conversion factors Convert length, mass, temperature, and volume values between the metric and English measurement systems Recognize the need to convert units in order to solve a given problem Properly select and construct a graph (scatter, bar, line) to represent measured data and utilize these graphs to describe the relationships represented and draw reasonable conclusions Convert scale drawings to real measurements and vice versa Apply newly gained knowledge and skills to the creation of house plans and scale models. L1:  Perform unit conversions of complex units (miles per hour, etc.) L1:  Use significant digits in calculations correctly
2	Atomic Structure and Chemical Reactions The structure of the atom, specifically the distribution of electrons, determines the properties of each element as well as their tendency to react or interact with others.  Through the study of atomic structure, scientists can analyze the composition of materials throughout our galaxy and have made advances in constructing materials to perform specific functions in the technologies we rely on today.  Describe the development of modern atomic theory, including the evidence upon which improvements to the atomic model were made Produce atomic models/diagrams that demonstrate the charge and location of protons, neutrons, and electrons Define the term photon Relate flame test results to the structure of the atom. Utilize flame test results to differentiate and identify specific elements Use dot diagrams to signify the number of valence electrons for a given atom. Define ionic and covalent bonding Use dot diagrams to model the formation of bonds between two stated elements. Recognize the relationship among an atom’s position on the periodic table, the number of valence electrons it contains, and its chemical behavior and physical properties. Predict whether an interaction between two given elements will result in the formation of an ionic or covalent bond. Predict the formula for the products in a simple chemical synthesis reaction involving only two elements Differentiate among synthesis, replacement, and decomposition reactions. Name simple ionic and covalent compounds Describe the correspondence between emission spectra and electron energy level transitions Apply newly gained knowledge and skills to the solution of a forensic mystery. L1: Describe electron orbitals and use the periodic table to identify electron orbital configurations L1: Name compounds and describe reactions involving transition metals and polyatomic ions
3	Sources and Uses of Energy Where does our energy come from?  How efficiently can we convert energy from one form to another?  How do we move energy to where it’s really needed?  Can we store energy for future use?  Thoughtful consideration of these questions will enable critical analysis surrounding local, national, and global energy issues. Measure the rate of energy consumption in Watts and convert to other units Distinguish power from energy Categorize types of energy informally – thermal, chemical, mechanical, electrical, radiant and nuclear Describe conversions between types of energy Describe ways of storing energy Describe ways of transmitting and transporting energy from one place to another Recognize significant losses in energy conversion and transmission Compare and contrast sources of power – fossil (coal, oil, gas), wind, solar, biomass, water, nuclear, geothermal Categorize and analyze usage of energy using models – transportation, heating/cooling, light, food/farming, gadgets, manufacturing Distinguish conservation from efficiency improvements Apply newly gained knowledge and skills to the construction of an operational model generator that utilizes an assigned sustainable energy source L1: Apply newly gained knowledge and skills to the development of a plan to power Massachusetts with that single sustainable power source L1: Explain and analyze embodied energy L1: Explain Energy Return on Energy Invested and its implications L1: Model costs of power generation including fixed, variable, and external costs
4	States of Matter and Matter/Energy Interactions A change in the state of matter is reflective of a change in the energy stored within.  As matter goes from one state to another, its structure changes, as does the manner in which it interacts with its surroundings.   Describe the characteristics of solids, liquids, and gases Differentiate between mixtures and pure substances Detail the changes that occur when energy is added to or removed from a substance Describe the relationship between molecular kinetic energy and temperature Describe the relationship between molecular potential energy and phase Describe the relationship among mass, volume, and density Describe the relationship between phase and density Define the term buoyancy Solve problems relating density and buoyancy Apply newly gained knowledge and skills to the construction of a functioning submarine, built to meet specific criteria L1: Solve problems using specific heat, heat of fusion and heat of vaporization L1: Solve multi-step problems relating buoyancy to displacement