Dr.

Muhammad’s Course Syllabus

2023/2024 School Year

Course: Physical Science

Course Description: Physical Science is the science concerned with the study of inanimate natural
objects, including physics, chemistry, astronomy, and related subjects.

Physical Science has three components: science, mathematics, and technology. Students will receive
intensive math and science integration in a laboratory setting.

Overall Goal: My goal is to encourage high-level thinking about the physical world around us and the
science that runs it. It is also my goal to teach you targeted skills such as lab inquiry skills, including
experimental design, graphical analysis of data, use of the periodic table and other science and
mathematical tables, manipulation of algebraic expressions, and activities involving simple ratios.

Course Credit: 1 Credit (Carnegie Unit)

Instructor’s Emphasis: My emphasis is for each student to have a working understanding of or

conceptual knowledge of how Physical Science works every day. This is achieved by having a
conceptual knowledge of the basic concepts of how inanimate natural objects work according to the
laws of physics, chemistry, astronomy, and related subjects.

Prerequisites: Completion of Chemistry and Algebra II or higher-level math

Instructor: Dr. Ga’Brielle Muhammad

Office: Room 211 A
Phone: (225) 800-6926 (please text or leave a voice message)
E-mail Address: [email protected]
Website: drgabriellemuhammad.com
Office Hours: By Appointment

Information and experiences for the course will be provided by:

A. Study of text and other references
B. Instructor’s lectures
C. Laboratory Demonstrations
D. Peer teaching
General Goal(s):
1. Be engaged and active participants in class discussions and activities.
2. Complete assigned readings and homework on time.
3. Collaborate with your peers on group projects and experiments.
4. Come prepared with questions and a willingness to explore new ideas.

Relevant Concepts and Vocabulary: Topics will include matter, mass, volume, density, states of
matter (solid, liquid, gas), motion, velocity, acceleration, force, newton's laws of motion, energy, kinetic
energy, potential energy, thermal energy, electrical energy, energy transformation, waves, frequency,
wavelength, amplitude, sound waves, light, reflection, refraction, optics, electricity, electric circuits,
voltage, current, resistance, magnetism, scientific method, hypothesis, experiment, data, conclusion,
safety protocols, laboratory equipment, engineering, technology, environmental science, data analysis,

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scientific communication, critical thinking, inquiry, real-world applications, curiosity, experimentation,
conservation of energy, electromagnetism

Student Learning Outcomes

By the end of the 9th grade physical science class, students should be able to:
1. Understand and explain the properties of matter, including mass, volume, and states of matter
(solid, liquid, gas).
2. Analyze and describe the principles of motion, velocity, acceleration, and the effects of forces
on objects using laws of motion.
3. Identify and differentiate various forms of energy, including kinetic, potential, thermal, and
electrical energy, and understand energy transformations.
4. Explain the properties of waves and sound, including wavelength, frequency, amplitude, and
how sound waves travel through different media.
5. Describe the behavior of light, including reflection, refraction, and the interaction of light with
lenses and mirrors.
6. Understand the basics of electricity, including electric circuits, voltage, current, and resistance,
and recognize the principles of magnetism.
7. Apply the scientific method to formulate hypotheses, design and conduct experiments, collect
and analyze data, and draw conclusions.
8. Demonstrate safety awareness and proper use of laboratory equipment during experiments.
9. Identify real-life applications of physical science concepts in fields such as engineering,
technology, and environmental science.
10. Communicate scientific findings effectively through writing, presentations, and data analysis.
11. Foster a curiosity-driven approach to science and develop critical thinking skills for future
scientific exploration.

Technology and Web-based Learning:

● Access to the internet
● Online Learning platform (Moodle @ dr.gabriellemuhammad.com)
● Videos
● Science websites
● Research
● Laptop/Notepad
● Google
● Google Drive

Required Textbook and Materials:

Textbook
1. Online Textbook (TBA)
2. Syllabus (Must keep in notebook pocket or in binder throughout the year. This is
part of your grade.)
Materials List for High School Physical Science Class:
1. Scientific Calculator: A basic scientific calculator capable of performing
calculations involving trigonometry, logarithms, and other advanced functions.
2. Graphing Calculator (optional): A graphing calculator is not mandatory, but it can
be helpful for visualizing and analyzing complex data and equations.
3. 5-Subject Notebook or Binder with 5 Dividers: A dedicated notebook or binder to
take notes and organize class materials.
4. Pens, Pencils, and Erasers: Essential writing utensils for classwork, homework,

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 and exams.
5. Ruler and Protractor: For precise measurements and drawing accurate
diagrams.
6. Graph Paper: Useful for graphing data and plotting mathematical functions.
7. Safety Goggles: Required for lab experiments to ensure eye protection.
8. Lab Coat or Apron: For lab sessions to protect clothing from spills or splashes.
9. USB Drive: To store digital files and presentations related to class assignments.
10. Sticky Notes or Flags: Handy for marking important pages or sections in
textbooks or notes.
Secondary items:
11. Whiteboard Markers and Eraser (if applicable): For interactive whiteboard
activities and presentations.
12. Headphones (optional): Useful for watching educational videos or online
resources during class.
13. Internet-Enabled Device (if applicable): For accessing online resources and
educational websites related to Physical Science.

Note: The teacher will let you know when you will need to bring the secondary items
to class.

Course Expectations and Supplements: Students are expected to attend class every day. Students
may receive supplemental course material to augment overall learning.

Description of Instructional Procedures:

The objectives for this course will be met through the following methods of presentation:
A. Class Lecture 35%
B. Glass Discussion 20%
C. Group Interaction 10%
D. Audio/Visual 35%

Course Requirements:
Academic
1. Laboratory Report
2. Research Assignments
3. Individual/Groups Projects
4. Pop Quizzes / Scheduled Quizzes /Unit Test / Mid-Term / Final

Administrative:
Class Attendance and Make-up Policy:
1. Class attendance is according to School Policy.
2. Late Class Attendance Class will start promptly as scheduled.
3. Class participation is required (discussions, group assignments, etc.).
4. Examination/quizzes: All assignments are due on or before the designated date and at
the designated time. If submitted after the due date 10% of the grade will be deducted.
Assignments are given with not less than 1 class period to complete.
Assessment:
Your understanding of the material will be assessed through quizzes, tests, lab reports, and projects.
These assessments will give you the opportunity to showcase your knowledge and apply Physical
Science principles to real-life scenarios.

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Grade Distribution:
Final grade will be determined and assigned based on:
●Class Discussion (10 points each) 400 Points
●Attendance (100 points each term) 200 Points
●30 Assignments (50 points each) 1500 Points
●14 Labs (20 points each) 280 Points
●16 Quizzes (50 points each) 800 Points
●7 Unit Assessments (100 points each) 700 Points
●Mid-Term and Final 400 Points
___________________________________________________
Total Point 4280 Points
*This is a tentative grade distribution. Refer the website for updates. Dr.Ga’BrielleMuhammad.com

Grading Scale: % (points) is required to pass the class.

Let 's embark on this exciting journey together, exploring the wonders
of Physical Science and discovering the underlying principles that
govern our universe. Get ready for a rewarding and enriching
experience that will equip you with valuable skills for your future
endeavors!
Dr. Muhammad

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 Physical Science Class Course Schedule
Week 1: Welcome to Physical Science
Week of August 7, 2023
● Introductory Week
● Policy, Procedures, Surveys, Contracts

Week 2: Introduction to Physical Science

Week of August 14, 2023
Lecture Class
● Overview of the course and its objectives
● Introduction to scientific method and inquiry
● Definitions and Concepts

Quiz: Vocabulary on Introductory Terms in Physical Science

Week 3: Introduction to Physical Science

Week of August 21, 2023
Lecture Class
● Basic concepts of matter, mass, and volume
● States of matter: solids, liquids, and gases

Laboratory Class

Week 4: Introduction to Physical Science

Week of August 28, 2023
Lecture Class
● Physical and chemical properties of matter
● Introduction to Physical Science Unit Review

Unit Assessment: Introduction to Physical Science

Week 5: Earth Science and Environmental Science

Week of September 4, 2023
Lecture Class
● Earth's structure and composition
● Definitions and Concepts

Quiz: Vocabulary on Earth Science and Environmental Science

Labor Day September 4, 2023

Week 6: Earth Science and Environmental Science

Week of September 11, 2023
Lecture Class
● Plate tectonics and geological processes
Laboratory Class
● Investigating geological and environmental phenomena

Week 7: Earth Science and Environmental Science

Week of September 18, 2023
Lecture Class

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 ● Weather and climate

Laboratory Class
● Investigating geological and environmental phenomena

Week 8: Earth Science and Environmental Science

Week of September 25, 2023
Lecture
● Human impact on the environment and sustainability
● Earth Sciene and Environmental Science Unit Review

Unit Assessment: Earth Science

Week 9: Motion and Forces

Week of October 2, 2023
Lecture Class
● Understanding motion and its measurements
● Velocity, speed, and acceleration
● Definitions and Concepts

Quiz: Vocabulary on Motion and Forces

Week 10: Motion and Forces

Week of October 9, 2023
Lecture Class
● Laws of motion
● Force and types of forces (gravity, friction, etc.)

Laboratory Class

Week 11: Motion and Forces

Week of October 16, 2023
Lecture Class
● Applying Laws of Motion to real-life situations
● Motion and Forces Unit Review

Unit Assessment Motion and Forces

Week 12: Energy and Energy Transformations

Week of October 23, 2023
Lecture Class
● Definition and types of energy (kinetic, potential, thermal, etc.)
● Conservation of energy
● Definitions and Concepts

Quiz: Vocabulary on Energy and Energy Transformation

Week 13: Energy and Energy Transformations

Week of October 30, 2023
Lecture Class
● Energy transformations and their applications

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Laboratory Class
● Lab activities on energy transformations

Week 14: Energy and Energy Transformations

Week of November 6, 2023
Lecture Class
● Renewable and non-renewable energy sources
● Energy and Energy Transformations Unit Review

Unit Assessment: Energy and Energy Transformation

Week 15: Waves and Sound

Week of November 13, 2023
Lecture Class
● Properties of waves (wavelength, frequency, amplitude, etc.)
● Definitions and Concepts

Quiz: Vocabulary on Waves and Sound

Thanksgiving Break November 20 - 24, 2023

Week 16: Waves and Sound

Week of November 27, 2023
Lecture Class
● Understanding sound waves and how they travel

Laboratory Class
● Hands-on demonstrations on wave properties

Week 17: Waves and Sound

Week of December 4, 2023
Lecture Class
● Reflection and refraction of waves
Laboratory Class
● Hands-on demonstrations on wave properties

Week 18: Waves and Sound

Week of December 11, 2023
Lecture Class
● Applications of waves in communication and technology
● Waves and Sound Unit Review

Unit Assessment: Waves and Sounds

Week 19: Light and Optics

Week of December 18, 2023
Lecture Class
● Properties of light and its behavior
● Definitions and Concepts

Quiz: Vocabulary on Light and Optics

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 Christmas / Winter Break December 18, 2023 - January 2, 2024

Week 20: Light and Optics

Week of January 1, 2024
Lecture Class
● Reflection and refraction of light

Laboratory Class
● Investigating light through practical experiments

Week 21: Light and Optics

Week of January 8, 2024
Lecture Class
● Understanding lenses and mirrors

Laboratory Class
● Investigating light through practical experiments

Winter Break January 1-2, 2024

Week 22: Light and Optics

Week of January 15, 2024
Lecture Class
● Review
● Light and Optic Unit Review

Unit Assessment Light and Optics

M. L. King Day January 15, 2024

Week 23: Electricity and Magnetism

Week of January 22, 2024
Lecture Class
● Fundamentals of electricity (charge, voltage, current, resistance)
● Definitions and Concepts

Quiz: Vocabulary on Electricity and Magnetism

Week 24: Electricity and Magnetism

Week of January 29, 2024
Lecture Class
● Electric circuits and their components

Laboratory Class
● Hands-on projects on building electric circuits and exploring magnetism

Week 25: Electricity and Magnetism

Week of February 5, 2024
Lecture Class
● Magnetic fields and properties of magnets

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Laboratory Class
● Hands-on projects on building electric circuits and exploring magnetism

Week 26: Electricity and Magnetism

Week of February 12, 2024
Lecture Class
● Magnetic fields and properties of magnets
● Electricity and Magnetism Unit Review

Physics Unit Assessment

Mardi Gras February 12-13, 2024

Week 27: Chemistry Fundamentals

Week of February 19, 2024
Lecture Class
● Introduction to atoms and elements
● Definitions and Concepts

Quiz: Vocabulary on Chemistry Fundamentals

Week 28: Chemistry Fundamentals

Week of February 26, 2024
Lecture Class
● The periodic table and chemical symbols

Laboratory Class
● Lab experiments on chemical reactions and properties of elements

Week 29: Chemistry Fundamentals

Week of March 4, 2024
Lecture Class
● Chemical bonds and compounds

Laboratory Class

Week 30: Chemistry Fundamentals

Week of March 11, 2024
Lecture Class
● Chemical reactions and balancing equations
● Chemistry Fundamentals Unit Review

Unit Assessment: Chemistry Fundamentals

Week 31: Review and Test Preparation

Week of March 18, 2024
Lecture Class
● Comprehensive review of all topics covered

Week 32: Review and Test Preparation

Week of March 25, 2024
Lecture

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 ● Practice exams and test preparation strategies

Week 33: Review and Test Preparation

Week of April 7, 2024
Lecture Class
● Individual and group review sessions

Spring Break March 29, 2024, April 1 – 5, 2024

Week 34: Review and Test Preparation

Week of April 14, 2024
Lecture Class
● Addressing any areas of confusion or difficulty

Week 35: Culminating Projects and Presentations

Week of April 21, 2024
Lecture Class
● Students work on individual or group projects related to a specific physical science topic of interest

Week 36: Culminating Projects and Presentations

Week of April 29, 2024
Lecture Class
● Presenting projects to the class with explanations and demonstrations

Week 37: Culminating Projects and Presentations

Week of May 6, 2024
Lecture Class
● Reviewing and celebrating the knowledge gained throughout the course

Week 38: Review for Final

Week of May 13, 2024
Lecture Class
● Introduction to Physical Science
● Earth Science and Environmental Science
● Motion and Forces
● Energy and Energy Transformations
● Waves and Sound
● Light and Optics
● Electricity and Magnetism
● Chemistry Fundamentals

Week 39 Final Examination

Week of May 20, 2024

Early Dismissal May 20-22, 2024

*Syllabus is subject to updates

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 Dr. Muhammad's Online Instructions for Assignment Submission

Dear Students,

To ensure a smooth and organized submission process for your science assignments, please follow
these instructions carefully:

1. Format:
• All assignments must be typed using a standard font (e.g., Times New Roman or Arial) with
12-point font size.
• Maintain 1-inch margins on all sides of the page.
• Use double-spacing for the content.

2. Heading:
• Include a heading on the top-left corner of the first page with the following information:
• Your full name
• Class period
• Name of assignment
• Date of submission

3. File Naming:
• Save your assignment file with a clear and descriptive name, including your name and the
assignment title (e.g., "JohnSmith_ExploringMagnetism.docx").

4. Assignment Title:
• Include a clear and informative title at the beginning of your assignment.

5. Organization:
• Begin your assignment with an introduction that provides context and a thesis statement (if
applicable).
• Use appropriate headings and subheadings to structure your work logically.
• Ensure a coherent flow of ideas throughout the assignment.

6. Citations and References:

• Whenever you use external sources (textbooks, articles, websites, etc.), provide proper citations
following a recognized citation style (e.g., APA or MLA).
• Include a separate "References" or "Works Cited" page at the end of your assignment.

7. Plagiarism:
• Be mindful of academic integrity and avoid plagiarism by properly attributing all sources used in
your assignment.
• Any form of plagiarism will result in serious consequences.

8. Proofreading:
• Carefully proofread your work for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors before submission.
• Seek assistance from peers, parents, or the teacher if needed.

9. Submission Method:
• Assignments will be submitted as instructed by the teacher (manually or electronically).
• Make sure the document is in a compatible format (e.g., .docx or .pdf).

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10. Submission Deadline:
• Assignments must be submitted by [specify the date and time].
• Late submissions will be subject to the school's late work policy.

11. Backup Copy:

• Always keep a backup copy of your assignment on your personal device or cloud storage.

If you have any questions or need clarification regarding the assignment or submission process, do not
hesitate to ask. I am here to support you and help you succeed in your science studies.

Best regards,
Dr. Muhammad
[email protected]

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 Dr. Muhammad's Policy for Organizing Science Notebook/Binder

Purpose:
The purpose of this policy is to guide high school students on how to effectively organize their
notebooks or binders for the science class. A well-organized notebook will enhance the learning
experience, facilitate review, and promote academic success.

1. Separate Sections:
• Divide your notebook/binder into distinct sections for each unit or topic covered in the science
class. Use dividers or labeled tabs to clearly mark each section.

2. Title Page:
• Begin each section with a title page that includes the name of the unit/topic and the date range
during which it was covered.

3. Class Notes:
• Take detailed and organized class notes during lectures, discussions, and demonstrations.
• Use bullet points, numbering, or headings to structure your notes logically.
• Date each set of notes and include the title of the lesson.

4. Handouts and Worksheets:

• Place any handouts or worksheets received during class in their respective sections.
• If possible, hole-punch and secure loose papers directly into the appropriate section.

5. Assignments and Homework:

• Keep all completed assignments and homework in the corresponding unit section.
• File them in chronological order or based on the date they were assigned.

6. Lab Reports and Experiments:

• Dedicate a separate section for lab reports and experiments.
• Include data, observations, procedures, conclusions, and any related analysis for each lab.

7. Graded Assessments:
• Preserve graded quizzes, tests, and exams in their own designated section.
• Review your graded work regularly to learn from mistakes and track progress.

8. Vocabulary and Key Concepts:

• Maintain a section specifically for vocabulary words and key concepts introduced throughout the
course.
• Include definitions and relevant examples to aid in understanding.

9. Graphic Organizers and Diagrams:

• Include any diagrams, graphs, charts, or graphic organizers used during class in their
appropriate sections.
• Label and caption them for easy reference.

10. Personal Reflections:

• Reserve a section for personal reflections on topics covered, class discussions, and
connections to real-life experiences.
• Use this space to deepen your understanding and engage in critical thinking.

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11. Color Coding:
• Consider color-coding your notes and sections to help visually organize different topics or units.

12. Maintenance:
• Regularly review and update your notebook/binder to ensure it remains organized and easy to
navigate.
• Avoid the accumulation of unnecessary papers or materials.

By following this notebook/binder organization policy, students will have a comprehensive and
well-structured reference tool that supports their learning journey in the high school science class.
Organized notebooks promote efficient study habits and contribute to academic success.

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 Procedure for Studying Physical Science

Step 1: Defining the Chapter Terms

Define ALL terms for the whole chapter using the definitions in the glossary. These must be completed
by the second day of the unit. You will write the definition (by hand) in the last section of your
5-subject notebook. Each section must be headed. (See the sample below.) Your notebooks will be
graded on organization and completeness.

Assignment Heading Example

Your Name
Chapter No. Section No.
Vocabulary
Date

Step 2: Understanding Key Concepts

Read the chapter section assigned by the teacher on the first day that the chapter is introduced.
Answer questions under the Key Concepts section. (See the first page of each section.) The first
section of your 5-subject notebook will be designated for Key Concept. You will write the answers to
the Key Concepts in the first Be prepared for quiz on terms and key concepts on the next class period.

Assignment Heading Example

Your Name
Chapter No. Section No.
Key Concepts
Date

Step 3: Identifying and Understanding Laws and Theories

Taking notes in class. The third section in your 5-subject notebook will be dedicated to class
note-taking. During the class lecture, write down any laws and theorems (theories) that your teacher
points out during the lecture.

Assignment Heading Example

Chapter No. Section No.

Date

Step 4: Thinking About the Overall Concept

Relate what you have learned to the physical world around you.

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