9th Grade Physical Science Curriculum

Physical Science is an introductory laboratory course to the study of chemistry and physics. Chemistry is the study of the properties, classes, and structure of matter and its changes. It includes such topics as the periodic table of elements, atomic structure, molecules, solutions, and chemical reactions. Physics is the study of the interrelationships of matter and energy. It includes topical studies in motion, electricity, sound, and heat.

• Quarterly Assessments Topic List
• Course Objectives - Printable Summary (Adobe PDF; 292 kB)
  
  1. Methods of Science and Measurement
  1. Scientific Method
  2. SI & Graphing
  2. Laboratory Safety
  3. Structure and Properties of Matter
  1. Atoms
  2. Elements
  3. Characteristic Properties
  4. Composition of Matter
  4. Chemical Reactions
  5. Motions and Forces
  1. Laws of Motion
  2. Gravity
  6. Interactions of Energy and Matter
  1. Energy Types
  2. Waves
  3. Electromagnetic Waves
  4. Electricity
  5. Thermal Energy
• Core Labs - Summary (Adobe PDF; 52 kB)  |   Process Skills (Web; 275 kB)
  
  1. Investigations & Experiments (CPO 1.2)
  2. Using a Scientific Model to Predict Speed (CPO 2.1)
  3. Force, Mass, and Acceleration (CPO 3.1)
  4. Energy Conservation (CPO 5.2)
  5. Resistance (CPO 7.3)
  6. Introduction to Electric Circuits (CPO 9.1)
  7. Harmonic Motion (Pendulum Lab)
  8. Introduction to Waves (CPO 12.1)
  9. Introduction to Sound (CPO 13.1)
  10. Introduction to Light (CPO 14.1)
  11. Laboratory Techniques Performance
  12. Separation of Mixtures
  13. Properties of Solids (CPO 17.1)
  14. Flame Test
  15. Comparing Molecules (CPO 19.3: Nuts & Bolts)
  16. Pecan Lab
• Textbook