Introduction to Physics 2007-2008

Miss Kach

Mission Statement: At Sutton High School, we are committed to providing a foundation on which all students have the opportunity to pursue academic excellence and personal development in a safe, supportive, and challenging learning environment. 

Science Department Mission Statement: The Science Department encourages students to understand the process as well as the product of science. Through problem solving, critical thinking and the effective use technology, students are expected to develop an awareness of the inquiry approach as a tool to gather information. The ultimate goal of science and technology is to apply knowledge of both the living and non-living world to develop solutions and methods that enhance the world in which we live.

 Science Department Learning Expectations: The Sutton High School student…

                                                                        …is a problem solver.

                                                                        …is a critical thinker

                                                                        …effectively uses technology

 Course Description: In this course students will investigate the principles of matter and energy as outlined in the Massachusetts Science and Technology grade 9 and 10 Introduction to Physics Frameworks. Unit studies focus on motion, heat transfer, waves, and the electromagnetic spectrum. All students will be involved in lab exercises, journal reflections, projects and interactive lessons to illustrate and reinforce basic physics concepts. Cooperative learning activities will emphasize physics concepts, while encouraging the student to verbalize and discuss science terms and ideas. Laboratory exercises, both traditional and inquiry, will challenge students to use their critical thinking and problem solving abilities. Homework will be textbook and project centered.

Textbok: Physical Science. New York: Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, 1999.

Content: The following topics will be discussed in throughout the school year: motion, forces, Conservation of Energy and Momentum, heat, heat transfer, waves, electromagnetism, and electromagnetic radiation

 Objectives: Students will…

                   …develop problem solving and analytical skills in safe lab situations.

                   …use technology and the Internet to research project and lab problem

                       statements while developing inquiry, analysis, and decision-making skills.

                   …apply the scientific method to inquiry and traditional laboratory situations.

                   …work in teams and individually to solve scientific problems.

 Student Expectations:

1.      All students are expected to have a 3-ring binder.

2.      All students are required to have a covered textbook.

3.      All students are expected to be courteous and respectful towards their classmates at all times.

4.      All students are expected to turn in all assignments on time. Late work will not be accepted.

5.      Homework will be reviewed daily, collected and graded occasionally, but expected always.

6.      All make-ups will be expected within one week of return to class.

 Grading: Quarter grades will be calculated using the following distributions:

            25% Exams

            20% Quizzes

            20% Homework

            20% Projects/Labs/Classwork

            15% Class Participation (includes taking notes, all materials in class, working 

                     cooperatively/independently)

 Final Average:

            90% Quarter Averages: Average of 4 quarter grades

            10% Final Exam Grade: The final exam will be given the last week of the school

        year and will include material from the entire school year.

*Students may be exempt from the final if they receive an average of 90+ for all 4 quarters

Extra Help: Extra help sessions are available for students to make up work or clarify information. Sessions are available Tuesday and Thursdays. Please speak with me in advance so I know when you are planning to see me or if you would like to schedule at an alternate time.

 Contact information: e-mail: KachK@suttonschools.net

                                   Phone: 508-581-1640 x 4459

                                   Room: C7

Student Signature:__________________________                Date:_____________

Parent/Guardian Signature:___________________                  Date:_____________

Parent Contact Information

If for any reason, throughout the school year, I should feel the need to contact you please let me know which would be the best way.

e-mail _______                      e-mail address _____________________________

Phone _______                      Phone #           _____________________________

Either _______