HS Science Update
By Justesen, Nichole on October 27, 2014
The science department has been really busy this year, and I can hardly believe we are almost done with 1st quarter. This year I have included a science current event day every Friday. This allows students to do research and see who science impacts our lives every day, as well as keeping up on how science is ever changing. All classes are in full swing with the SSEP space project. The dead line for the project is November 1st. All students will display their project during school the week of November 10 – 15th.
Gen Science
The General Science classes have just started studying the periodic table and study of atoms. The holidays are fast approaching, but we will be jumping right into “motion and momentum” series. We will also be periodically including food science so students can see how chemistry impacts our everyday life and importance of making smart food choices.
Chemistry
The Chemistry class is just starting the periodic table, ionic and covalent bonds and basic balancing equations. The students will get an opportunity to practice balancing equations and applying the knowledge to virtual games and creating power point. The video is a great opportunity for students to incorporate their chemistry knowledge with technology. Our next section will include balancing complex equations and converting equations into “moles”.
Physics
The Physics class just finished a large project this year. The students had to create a lab that demonstrated kinematics formulas and apply them to texting and driving scenarios. The students also created a public service announcement demonstrating the dangers of using media and motorized vehicle at the same time.
The Physics class has just started working with Newton’s three laws of motion in one dimension. They will then apply Newton's three laws in two dimensions. Students will utilize previous knowledge in trigonometry and calculus to tackle these problems. The Physics class will also take a slight detour to discuss the “physics of food”. I hope the students will enjoy learning how science and food go hand and hand.