Physical Science (Apex)

Physical Science offers a focused curriculum designed around the understanding of foundational physical science concepts, including the nature of matter, energy, and forces, as well as the application of scientific and engineering practices. 

Course topics include energy, forces, electromagnetism, waves, matter, chemical reactions, and nuclear reactions. Teacher-scored labs encourage students to apply the scientific method. 

Students discover new concepts through guided instruction and confirm their understanding in an interactive, feedback-rich environment. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. 

A variety of activities encourage students to think scientifically. Labs and projects reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science and engineering. Virtual labs allow students to engage in investigations that would otherwise require long periods of observation at remote locations and to explore simulations that scientists use to test predictions. In discussion activities, students compare their lab results and exchange ideas about their investigations. Practice and explore activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing and scientific reasoning skills. 

This course is built to state standards.

This updated course was originally created for Apex Courses and is now available in Courseware.