Course title

Physical Science - VIRTUAL

Pre-requisite

None

Course description

Course Syllabus

This course is designed as an interactive introduction to basic physics and chemistry. Topics include forces and motion, energy through waves, electricity and magnetism, the matter around us, chemical bonding and reactions.

This course is designed to serve as a foundation for the study of the physical sciences. Students use scientific inquiry and higher-order problem solving as they explore these topics through interactive simulations, and both virtual and hands-on experiences. In addition, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts are integrated throughout the course. Collaborative projects and real-world assessments aid the student in ultimately demonstrating an understanding of the importance of the physical and chemical properties of the world around them.

Estimated Completion Time: 2 segments / 32–36 weeks.

Major Topics and Concepts:

Segment I:

Module : Motion

  • Motion Pretest
  • The Study of Science
  • Speed, Velocity, and Acceleration
  • Honors Speed, Velocity, and Acceleration
  • The Laws of Motion
  • Momentum
  • Forces in Action
  • Energy
  • Work and Power
  • Motion Discussion-Based Assessment
  • Motion Module Exam

Module : Waves

  • Waves Pretest
  • Waves
  • Sound
  • Honors Sound
  • The Electromagnetic Spectrum—The Visible
  • The Electromagnetic Spectrum—The Non-Visible
  • Science and You
  • Waves Discussion-Based Assessment
  • Waves Module Exam

Module : Electricity

  • Electricity Pretest
  • Electrical Charges
  • Electric Current
  • Circuits
  • Electromagnetism
  • Energy Resources
  • Human Impacts on the Environment
  • Engineering Design I
  • Electricity Discussion-Based Assessment
  • Electricity Module Exam
  • Segment One Exam

Segment II

Module : Classifying Matter

  • Classifying Matter Pretest
  • States of Matter
  • Classifying Matter
  • Properties of Matter
  • Atomic Theory
  • Honors Atomic Theory
  • Properties of Atoms
  • The Periodic Table of Elements
  • Classifying Matter Discussion-Based Assessment
  • Classifying Matter Exam

Module : Chemical Properties

  • Chemical Properties Pretest
  • Electrons and Bonding
  • Ionic and Covalent Bonds
  • Chemical Formulas
  • Hydrogen Hydroxide
  • Acids and Bases
  • Lab Time: Acid and Base Indicators
  • Chemical Properties Discussion-Based Assessment
  • Chemical Properties Module Exam

Module : Reactions

  • Reactions Pretest
  • Chemical Reactions
  • Classifying Chemical Reactions
  • Chemical Reactions and Energy
  • Modeling Chemical Reactions
  • Reaction Rates and Temperature Laboratory
  • Chemical Reaction Systems
  • Radioactivity
  • Nuclear Reactions
  • Honors Regulating Nuclear Power
  • Impact of Biotechnology
  • Engineering Design II
  • Reactions Discussion-Based Assessment
  • Reactions Module Exam
  • Segment Two Exam

Course Assessment and Participation Requirements: 

To achieve success, students are expected to submit work in each course weekly. Students can learn at their own pace; however, “any pace” still means that students must make progress in the course every week. To measure learning, students complete self-checks, practice lessons, multiple choice questions, projects, discussion-based assessments, and discussions. Students are expected to maintain regular contact with instructors; the minimum requirement is monthly. When instructors, students, and parents work together, students are successful.

 

Lab Materials Needed By ModuleModule : MotionActivityMaterials NeededEnergyVarious household items to build a Rube Goldberg machine. Some examples are books, a ruler, cups, toy cars.Module : WavesActivityMaterials NeededN/AN/AModule : ElectricityActivityMaterials NeededN/AN/AModule : Classifying MatterActivityMaterials NeededStates of MatterHot and cold water, foam cups, thermometer, measuring cups.Module : Chemical PropertiesActivityMaterials NeededAcids and BasesHousehold materials including one acid and one base. Examples might be lemon juice, fruit, dish soap, or baking soda.Module : ReactionsActivityMaterials NeededReaction Rates and Temperature Laboratory(Students may complete virtual or hands-on lab) Optional materials: antacid tablets, clear cups, water, timing device

It is important to note that in addition to hands on labs using the materials listed above there are also virtual labs in which students use virtual enviroments and equipment to simulate wet labs. These labs are substituted in cases where a student would not have access to equipment needed for the lab and/or the lab would be to dangerous for the student to do in an unsupervised environment.

School country

United States

School state

Arkansas

School city

Fayetteville

High school

Fayetteville Virtual Academy

School / district Address

300 South Ray Avenue Fayetteville, AR

School zip code

72703

Requested competency code

Lab Science

Date submitted

Approved

Yes

Approved competency code

  • LINT
  • Integrated science

Approved date

Online / Virtual

Yes