Basic Course Information (grading scale, attendance policy, etc) are listed on the home page.
8th Grade Physical Science
Course Description: This course is designed to continue student investigations of the physical sciences that began in grades K-7 and provide students with the necessary skills to have a richer knowledge base in physical science. The curriculum for this course includes the more abstract concepts such as the structure of atoms, motion, and forces, and the conservation of energy and matter, the action/reaction principle, and wave behavior. Students investigate physical science concepts through experiences in laboratories and field work using the process of inquiry.
Textbooks: There are two textbooks for this course
- Physical Science, CPO, 2008 and Investigations, Physical Science, CPO, 2008 (lab manual)—this is the primary lab text for this course. We only have a class set of books; however, there is a CD copy of the textbook which can be checked out for 2 nights to be copied and loaded onto a computer in your home, if desired.
- Physical Science, Holt Science and Technology, 2002. This textbook will be assigned to each student and should be kept at home; a class set is available for use during school.
Homework: Brief homework assignments will be given 2 or 3 days per week. Students should also review their notes and vocabulary on a regular basis.
Portfolio: Students will keep a 3-ring binder in the classroom to serve as a portfolio. This will hold returned and graded papers, quizzes and notes. Dividers should be labeled Notes, Handouts, Quizzes, Classwork, Labs, and if desired a 6th tab may be labeled Paper. Students will use a folder for carrying needed papers out of class such as homework to be finished or notes which need to be studied.
Composition Book (Science Journal): Students will need a composition book which will stay in the classroom and is dedicated to an opening question to begin each class period. Students will write the question and then answer upon entering the room each class period. This will be graded periodically.
Tests: will be given after the completion of each chapter and/or unit. Tests will include notes that are taken in class; however, students are also responsible for any information in the chapter, to include classwork, homework, notes, labs and readings.
Quizzes will be given periodically to determine student progress. These may be announced or unannounced. Quizzes may cover vocabulary terms, reading from the text, sections of your notes, application problems, metric conversions, or anything else that is deemed appropriate for quiz material.
Once again, I hope this is a great school year! Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. I welcome your input. Email is the best way to contact me at [email protected]. If you do not have email, then please call the school at 877-3112. My planning period is from 8:35-9:30. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Ryan
The Holt Physical Science Textbook (hardback) should be left at home. We have a classroom set to use at school.