Course Syllabus

Physical Science

Syllabus

Teacher: Mrs. Shoshannah Brasher
E-Mail: sbrasher@kpbsd.org
Phone: (907) 224-9057

Seward High School Room 106

• Course Overview

Physical Science is a yearlong laboratory science course focused on the study of matter and energy in the physical world.  This course includes the study of introductory chemistry and physics.   Students will learn about and utilize the scientific method, scientific inquiry, essential laboratory skills, and develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of physical science.  This course is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards and the Alaska state standards for content area literacy. 

• Assessment

• Methods of assessment include tests, projects, assignments, daily journals, and laboratory activities.  
• Late assignments will be accepted up to the chapter test, but will be penalized 30%.  
• Grades will be assigned as follows

• A: 90%-100%
• B: 80%-89%
• C: 70%-79%
• D: 60%-69%
• F: Below 60%

• Policies and Expectations

• Students are expected to follow all outlined KPBSD and Seward High School policies outlined in Seward High School’s parent/student handbook.  This includes proper behavioral conduct and academic integrity.  Students must participate in safe laboratory practices at all times.  
• Attendance – When students are absent, they are responsible for getting all work that was missed and any alternative assignments.  Students who reach an excess of 15 absences in a semester will be referred to the Seward High School intervention team and may lose course credit at the discretion of the team.
• Personal Electronic Devices – Students may use personal electronic devices in the classroom for instructional purposes only.  This includes use as a calculator, daily planner, canvas/powerschool access, and as an Internet research tool related to course relevant information. Listening to music with one headphone is only permitted during quiet independent work once class instruction has been completed.  
• Food and Drink – Students may not bring food into the classroom unless specifically permitted by the teacher.  Drinks are allowed

• Required Materials

• Notebook (to keep in class for daily journals)
• Writing utensil
• Binder / notebook with paper (for assignments and note-taking)
• Textbook (Science Spectrum - A Physical Approach, 2001)

• Additional Resources
• Canvas – Canvas is a district based learning management system that contains class content, instructional resources, prospective timelines, and other course information.  The address for this website is http://kpbsd.instructure.com.  It can also be accessed through the KPBSD website or Seward High School’s home page.  Students are expected to use canvas to access course content and get make up work.  
• PowerSchool – Parents and students will have access to Power School.  Grades will be primarily communicated through this medium and will be updated each Monday by 8 am.  The online version of the textbook can also be accessed through Power School.