Course Summary
In M/J Physical Science, students will discover the world of physical science through scientific inquiry and gain an understanding of the foundational concepts in chemistry and physics. Throughout this two- Segment course, students will explore topics including the properties of matter, changes in matter, motion, forces, energy, and waves. This course provides opportunities to build scientific models, perform research, and complete lab investigations, each of which supports the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through virtual simulations, hands-on investigations, and collaborative opportunities, students will build an understanding of physical and chemical principles that can be applied in their everyday lives.
MAJOR TOPICS AND CONCEPTS
Segment One
Module 01: Properties
of Matter
- The scientific method and
natural phenomena
- Common units and prefixes for
the systems of measurement
- The density formula and
applications
- Physical properties of matter
- Substance classification and
comparison
Module 02: Microscopic
Matter
- Changes to atomic theory over
time
- Elements and compounds in
living and non-living things
- Models of the structure of
atoms and their particles
- The organization of the
periodic table
- Properties of elements based on
the periodic table
Module 03: Chemical
Changes
- Physical versus chemical
changes
- The law of conservation of mass
in chemical and physical changes
- The influence of temperature on
chemical changes
- Acids, bases, and salts
- The comparisons of the
properties of compounds
Segment Two
Module 04: Objects
in Motion
- Understanding of motion, speed,
and velocity
- Calculation of average speed
- Measurement and graphing of
motion data
- Identification and
classification of the types of forces
- The relationships between
distance, mass, and gravitational force
- Forces and their effects on
motion
Module 05: Energy
Transformations
- The types and forms of energy
- The transformation between
potential and kinetic energy
- The law of conservation of
energy
- Temperature and thermal energy
- Heat flow and states of matter
Module 06: Waves
- Parts and measurements of waves
- Characteristics of the
electromagnetic spectrum
- Reflection, refraction, and
absorption of light waves
- Speed of waves in different
media
- Investigation of properties of
waves