Physical science is designed to integrate three different introductory courses on a grand and detail scale. The course includes the study of the Earth including geology and earth systems. A foundation is established in minerals and rocks, the rock cycle, how each contributes to the formation of soil and the solid Earth and moves into the study of weather and the solar system. The course also includes the study of chemistry. The introductory chemistry unit includes the discovery of the atom, its parts, as well as the periodic table, chemical formulas and names, chemical reactions and basic stoichiometry. The final component of the course is the study of physics. The introductory physics unit includes exploring optics, magnetism, electrical circuits, single dimension motion, force and elementary mechanics. The material is presented in a variety of ways such as current research data, theories and interest. The information presented is then discussed in context to the student's previous knowledge as well the myths they believe to be true. The second focus is through hands-on exploration. The students will participate in a number of laboratory experiments, demonstrations and projects.
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