Unit 1- Fundamentals of Physical Science

In this unit we begin our study of Physical Science by taking a look at the various branches or scientific disciplines that make up the field of Physical Science. As we learn about different aspects of physical science, we may be required to make observations, take measurements, make calculations, and even conduct experiments. Therefore, we need to become familiar with the metric system, measuring instruments, lab safety procedures, and the basic steps of the scientific method. We will use this knowledge to conduct a scientific inquiry (experiment), analyze the results, and learn to write a lab report.

SCSh8f. Science disciplines and traditions differ from one another in what is studied, techniques used, and outcomes sought.

Assignment 1: Examine the table describing areas of study within the field of Physical Science (click here to see table). Make flash cards for each discipline by placing the name of the discipline on one side of an index card and the description of the discipline on the reverse side. With a partner (of your choosing), use the flash cards to study for a quiz in which you must match each discipline with its proper description. Study your flashcards tonight. The quiz will be given tomorrow.

Quiz: A (paper) quiz on scientific disciplines.

SCSh2. Students will use standard safety practices for all classroom laboratory and field investigations.
SCSh4. Students will use tools and instruments for observing, measuring, and manipulating scientific equipment and materials.

SCSh5. Students will demonstrate the computation and estimation skills necessary for analyzing data and developing reasonable scientific explanations.

SCSh2a. Calculate density when given the means to determine a substances mass and volume.

(Obtain help sheet on metrics from your instructor. Click here to see help sheet) Listen to mini-lecture on Measurements and and Metric Conversions. Take notes. Then,complete the Metric Conversions worksheet. (click here to view worksheet) Note: the video above does a good job of summarizing what you have learned about measurement and metrics and can help you complete the worksheet. You may want to view it again

Assignment 3: Density Lab (we will complete this activity together as a class).

Assignment 4: Mini-lecture on Accuracy vs. Precision. Participate in class discussion during the lecture and write down everything that is written on the board.

Assignment 5: Mini-lecture on Significant Figures and Scientific Notation. Listen carefully, take notes, and complete practice problems as we go.

Quiz: Measurements and the Metric System. Quiz on what we learned about metrics and scientific measurements including: measuring devices, how to do metric to metric conversions, temperature conversions, and universal conversions. Also know how to read and write numbers in scientific notation, recognize significant figures and be able to explain the difference between precision and accuracy.

SCSh3a-f. Students will identify and investigate problems scientifically.

SCSh6a. Students will write clear, coherent laboratory reports related to scientific investigations.

Assignment 6: Listen to a mini-lecture on the Scientific Method, take notes, and participate in the class discussion that follows.

Click here to view video version of the lecture.

Assignment 7: Conduct a scientific inquiry (experiment). We will do this together in small groups of 4-5 students.

Assignment 8: Obtain a copy of "How to Write a Lab Report" from your instructor. Use these guidelines to type a lab report based on the experiment conducted above for Assignment 7. Place the finished report in your instructors Drop Box for grading.

Quiz: Paper quiz on the Acquisition of Knowledge and the Scientific Method.