Welcome!

9TH GRADE PHYSICS Syllabus

Overview:
The focus of this class is on developing critical thinking skills. Much of your work will involve
researching and analyzing information, and in applying, communicating, and presenting your
understanding. We want you to be able to look at something, make careful observations, ask questions,
and know how to answer your questions. We want you to be able to share your ideas and questions. We
want you to be able to see and apply what you learn to the world around you.
We want you to see science as both interesting and important to your lives. We want you to be curious
about your world, to know where and how to look for answers and questions, and we look forward to
getting to know each of you as well as your interests. : )
Our first unit will cover some of the history of science - how we began to figure out the world around us.
Further units will include the following topics: the Universe, space exploration, sound, music, air, and
airplanes.
Policies & Procedures:
1. No food, no drinks. Only water and seltzer are allowed.
2. Be respectful. Of our classroom and of each other.
3. Be a student. Come prepared, work hard, learn.
Grading:
Assessments of your learning are based in the Key Cognitive Standards (KCS): Problem Formulation,
Research, Interpretation, Communication, and Precision/Accuracy. Your achievement towards these
standards is assessed on a 4-point scale (4 - mastery, 3 - meets standards, 2 - approaches, 1 - below).
You can monitor your progress using Jupitergrades.
Projects
Classwork
Roundtables Project/Presentation
Do Nows/Exit Tickets
Homework
Assessments

30%
20%
20%
10%
10%
10%

You are expected to revise your work. Assignment final drafts should represent your best effort and
should reflect feedback received from your teachers and classmates.
Missing Work:
You are expected to make up all missing work and you are responsible for knowing what work you are
missing.
Mr. Balan

Ms. Steele

Ms. Sutjiawan

bbalan@originshighschool.org

csteele@originshighschool.org

gsutjiawan@originshighschool.or
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