Science 90 - Dec 16

Today we started the last unit on the universe.  Students picked up handouts for the notes as well as the title page for the unit.  We talked about the assignment that I want students to do over the break. This involves using the star chart that I handed out today in class and observing the stars sometime over the Christmas break.  As well, we were able to complete some of the notes in the new powerpoint on the universe.  Tomorrow students will be studying for their electricity exam which occurs on Thursday.  There is no homework for tomorrow.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 16

Today we started looking at an application of refraction, the science of geometric optics.  We learned about the difference between a converging and diverging lens.  As well we learned some terms that were relevant for studying lenses and optics.  Tomorrow we will start placing objects in front of the lenses and try to determine the image characteristics using a ray diagram.

Physics 30 - Dec 16

Today we started looking at collisions in 2D.  These problems just turn out to be momentum conservation problems with vector analysis.  We went through Examples 24 and 25.  Tomorrow we will go through the last example in the unit.

Science 90 - Dec 15

Today we finished our electricity unit by looking at the last 2 examples on electrical energy cost.  We then looked at how to calculate electrical efficiencies.  This also led into a quick lesson on the ENERGUIDE label and what information that tells us.  This was all covered on slides 78-83 in the powerpoint.  Students then had the rest of class to work on the worksheet for Activity C26 that deals with energy consumption in your home.  This is to be completed for tomorrow along with the vocabulary sheet that includes all the key terms that were introduced in this unit.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 15

Today students handed in Assignment 3.1 on refraction diagrams.  We then learned how to deal with situation when Snell's Law returns an error.  These are special situations called total internal reflection when light doesn't refract and leave the material, but stays inside and refracts around.  This happens when light is moving from a material with a high index of refraction to a material with a lower index of refraction and it tries to leave at an angle greater than a special angle called a critical angle.  The critical angle is a special incident angle where the refracted angle is 90 degrees.  This was all covered on slides 53-59 in the powerpoint.  Part C of the Refraction Practice Problems was assigned today and we will go over this tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will start looking at an application of this stuff.  We are going to look at start looking at geometric optics.

Physics 30 - Dec 15

Today we did our lab quiz for the radiation lab that we did at the university last week.  Afterwards we finished off looking at collisions in one dimension by looking at examples 21, 22 and 23.  Students then spent the remainder of class working on Assignment 4.7.  Tomorrow we will start looking at collisions in two dimensions and how to solve them.

Science 90 - Dec 12

Today we learned how electricity goes from the generating plant and reaches our home.  This is called the electric power grid.  We also learned that when it reaches our home it gets converted into other forms of energy that we can use to do stuff.  This was all covered on slides 69-75.  Students were assigned some questions out of the textbook on slide 75.  We will take these up on Monday. We then looked at how to calculate the cost of running a device that uses electricity.  We went through a couple of examples (slides 76-78) and then students were given a handout to take home and figure out the power ratings of 8 separate devices that they use on a regular basis at home.  We will use this handout to figure out how much their electrical lifestyle costs.  This handout needs to come back on Monday with at least 8 devices on it and their power ratings.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 12

Today we went over the homework fro yesterday on indices of refraction.  We then learned about the laws that govern refraction.  These laws are similar to the laws of reflection with one exception.  The law that talks about the relationship between the angles is different.  It is called Snell's Law.  We looked at an example involving Snell's Law and then the students were given some home to work on. They had to do Assignment 3.1 as well as Part B of the Refraction Problem handout given yesterday.  This is due tomorrow.

Physics 30 - Dec 12

Today we started looking at the law of conservation of momentum.  When no external forces are acting on a system, the system is said to be isolated.  When a system is isolated, the total momentum of the system remains constant.  This is called the law of conservation of momentum.  For our purposes, we will always assume that the system is isolated.  We looked at how this applies to explosions, or when one object becomes multiple objects.  We also looked at how this applies to collisions.  We learned about the different types of collisions.  Elastic collisions are collisions where objects collide and bounce off of each other.  In these types of collisions, momentum will be conserved.  Energy can be conserved as well if it is a perfect elastic collision.  The other type of collision is called an inelastic collision.  Momentum is conserved with these types of collisions but energy is always lost.  We didn't get a chance to work on example 21 today.  We will do that on Monday.  Reminder that on Monday we are having the radiation lab quiz.

Science 90 - Dec 10

Today we talked alot about different ways that we can produce electricity and the pros and cons of some of the methods.  We did slides 64-68 in the notes.  Tomorrow we will continue on with this and learn about electrical costs and efficiencies.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 10

Today we started to look at the property of refraction.  This is the property where light bends as it enters a new substance.  This bending is due the the fact that light will change speeds as it enters a new substance.  This change is speed is due to the optical density of the substance and related by a quantity called an index of refraction.  We covered slides 41-48 on the powerpoint and then students were tasked with doing Part A of the Refraction Practice Worksheet.  We will go over this tomorrow.

Students handed in Assignment 2.3 today as well.  If you didn't hand it in, please do so tomorrow.

Physics 30 - Dec 10

Today we started to look at momentum, what it is and how we measure it.  We also learned about the impulse momentum theorem.  This means that in order to change an object's momentum, one needs to apply a force to an object for an amount of time.  The product of the force and the time is called the impulse.  We went through examples 16, 17, & 18 and I assigned Assignment 4.6 at the end of the class.  Tomorrow we will start looking at the law of conservation of momentum.

Next week we will be having our radiation lab quiz on Monday and our dark matter lab quiz on Thursday.  Remember that today you were given your dark matter labs back.  The corrections need to come in tomorrow if they are going to come in.

Science 90 - Dec 9

Today we went over the homework that I assigned yesterday after I checked it.  We then learned how electricity is generated.  We went through slides 59-63 in the powerpoint.  We watched a video on electrical power generation located on Slide 63.  Students then had the remainder of class to work on Worksheet 2 called Calculating Resistance.  This worksheet had 5 questions on it where students were applying Ohm's Law to solve circuit problems.   I originally said that this would be due tomorrow.  However, it will now be due Thursday.  This handout is located on the backside of your circuit diagram worksheet.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 9

Today in class we went over the answers to Homework 2.6.  After that, we learned how to draw ray diagrams for curved mirrors.  This allows us to discover the image characteristics by use a graphical approach.  Students were given the instructions on how to draw 3 rays of light from an object to a mirror and reflect them off of the mirror to locate the image.  The students then had a chance to work on Assignment 2.3, which was simply a series of ray diagrams that students had to work through to figure out the image characteristics.  I had originally assigned this to be due tomorrow but I am changing that now until Thursday.  This will be handed in however.

Physics 30 - Dec 9

Today students wrote the in class assignment for the first half of unit 4.  Reminder that tomorrow we have our field trip.  Please make sure you are on time tomorrow and those students in Period 5 have cleared their schedules after school.

Science 90 - Dec 8

Today in class we finished our examples on Ohm's Law.  These examples were on slides 54-55.  Students then had the rest of class to work on questions #1-6 on page 264.  I will be checking these questions tomorrow.  We will be looking at how electricity it created tomorrow in class.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 8

Today we finished looking at some examples of finding the image mathematically using the mirror and magnification equations.  These examples were on slides 33 and 34 in the powerpoint and we looked at one for a converging mirror and one for a diverging mirror.  Students then worked on Homework 2.6 for the remainder of the class. Tomorrow we will be learning the graphical approach to finding image characteristics.  Bring a ruler tomorrow.

Physics 30 - Dec 8

Today in class we finished our lesson on the conservation of energy by finishing example 15 about the rollercoaster from the video we watched in class.  Students then had the rest of class to work on Assignment 4.5 which is on the conservation of energy.

Tomorrow students will write their first in class assignment in this unit on energy.  It covers the first 5 assignments in this unit,  Assignments 4.1-4.5.  Make sure you know how to do the concepts covered on those assignments.

Science 90 - Dec 4 & 5

Yesterday students wrote the quiz for the first half of the electricity unit.  We then started talking about formats for the lab report students need to do for the electrical circuits lab that was preformed on Wednesday.  We continued that discussion today and I led the class through the format that needs to be followed to write a formal lab report.  It can be found here and it is labelled Lab Report Format.
The lab report for the circuits lab is due on Monday.  We continued on with our notes on electricity today learning about Ohm's Law and the relationship that governs voltage, current and resistance in an electric circuit.  We talked about the process for solving problems in a physics class and we solved one example together.  This was covered on slides 49-52 in the powerpoint notes.  On Monday we will finish the other 2 examples and then students will get a chance to work on the assignment.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 4 & 5

Yesterday in class students continued learning about image characteristics and what characteristics images have in a plane mirror.  There are 4 characteristics that images can have and each has a different set of values.  We then started to learned about curved mirrors and how they are classified.  We learned about the differences between converging and diverging mirrors as well as some terminology that will be important as we study curved reflecting surfaces.

Today students wrote their heat quizzes and after the quizzes we continued on learning about curved mirrors.  This started by trying to determine the image characteristics for images in curved mirrors. We will learn 2 methods for finding the characteristics.  The first one they learned was a mathematical approach.  We were given a new equation, the mirror equation, as well as an old one, the magnification equation.  With these two equations we should be able to discover all of the characteristics for an image.  We started an example and will finish it on Monday.  These notes are all located on slides 26-33 in the physics notes ppt.

Physics 30 - Dec 4 & 5

Yesterday students learned about potential energy and how to calculate it.  The concept of defining a reference level is important in understanding potential energy.  Students were given Assignment 4.4 to work on but this is to be done at home as we had to move on start looking at conservation of energy.  We continued looking at the law of conservation of energy today by going over a couple of examples.  We did examples 12-15.  We almost finished example 15.  We will finish this on Monday and students will get a chance to work on Assignment 4.5.

On Tuesday next week we will have our first in class assignment for this unit.  It covers Assignments 4.1-4.5.  Even though I didn't assign anything new today in class, students should still be working ahead to get caught up on any assignments that they are behind on.

Science 90 - Dec 3

Today we did the circuit lab that we had prepared for yesterday.  Students are going to have to do a formal lab report for it.  We will discuss what that means tomorrow.  Reminder of your electricity quiz tomorrow.  Study Chapters 6, 7.1 and 7.2.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 3

Today we went over Homework 2.4 on the pinhole camera.  Then we started looking at the laws of reflection.  We learned some vocabulary that will be important as we study light.  We then learned about the 3 laws the govern how light reflects.  This led into a discussion on what reflects light and how that happens.  We the talked about the difference between specular and diffuse reflection.  Students then learned how we see reflections in mirrors and what a line a sight means.  This led into a discussion on image characteristics.  This was covered on slides 16-22 in the Physics Notes powerpoint.  We didn't get to Homework 3.5 today but we will get there tomorrow.

Physics 30 - Dec 3

Today we learned about energy transfer and kinetic energy.  Students also learned about the work energy theorem where work can be calculated simply by calculating the change in kinetic energy.  This was covered on slides 15-23.   We did 3 examples related to this and then students wrote the lab quiz for lab 3.1.  The rest of the class they worked on Assignment 4.3.  Tomorrow we will look at potential energy.

Science 90 - Dec 2

Today we went over the homework assigned yesterday.  We looked at the circuit diagrams that students did on the worksheet.  We then finished up the notes that we missed yesterday.  This was on slides 42-45.  We finished the class by talking about the circuit lab that we will be doing tomorrow.  I described how to use the circuit boards and how to use the multimeters to measure the various things in a circuit.

We are going to have a quiz on electricity on Thursday.  It will cover everything we have done in this unit so far including circuit diagrams.  So far we have covered all of chapter 6 in your text as well as section 7.1 & 7.2 in your text.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 2

Today in class we learned about the rectilinear propagation of light.  This allowed us to discover the magnification equation.  We also learned about how light travels and how to draw light diagrams.  This was covered on slides 8-15.  Students had about 15 min at the end of class to work on Homework 2.4.  We will go over this tomorrow and start looking at reflection.

Physics 30 - Dec 2

Today we looked at the concept of power and how it relates to work.  There are a couple of formulas one can use to calculate power.  We then worked through 3 different examples on how to calculate power.  Students then had the rest of the period to work on Assignment 4.2.  We will go over this tomorrow.

Students also received their exams back today from Unit 3.  Tomorrow we will start looking at energy.  Students will also be writing the quiz for Lab 3.1.

Science 90 - Dec 1

Today in class we continued our notes on circuits and we talked about the two different types of circuits.  We learned the difference between parallel and series circuits as well as how voltage, current and resistance are related in these types of circuits.

We also learned how to do circuit diagrams today.  Circuit diagrams are essential for understanding components in an electric circuit.  We did a couple of examples of circuit diagrams that showed how to draw parallel and series circuits as well as a combination of the 2.  The slides we covered were slides 34-41.  Students then spent the rest of the class working on the circuit diagram worksheet handed on in class.  This is in the Science 90 course notes link.  I will check this tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will finish the notes and then start work on the electric circuits lab.

Here are some videos that can explain how to draw circuit diagrams.  You might want to watch if you had trouble with today's lesson.

Physical Science 20 - Dec 1

We started our unit today on physics and the study of light.  We talked about the different properties of light and started looking at the speed of light in particular.  We learned that light travels very fast in a vacuum (300 million meters per second) and this makes calculating distances of very far objects easy.  These distances are called astronomical distances and we went over the definition of a parsec, a light year, and an astronomical unit.  We then looked at an exam using these and students were assigned Homework 2.2 to be done for tomorrow.

There is a new powerpoint that students can download to get the notes for this unit.  It is found in the Physical Science 20 link on the right and the notes are in the Physics folder called Physics Notes.  We went through slides 1-7 today.  Tomorrow we will be looking at the rectilinear propagation of light.

Physics 30 - Dec 1

Today we started out new unit on energy and momentum.  We began looking at the physical definition of work and what work is.  We did examples 1-3 and looked at some special situations where work is zero.  Students then had the remainder of class to work on Assignment 4.1. We will take this up tomorrow and move onto work on power.

New Star Wars Trailer!!!

Science 90 - Nov 26

Today we had a chance to review our exams from the chemistry unit.  We then went over the homework from yesterday.  Students did some questions from the textbook as well as a worksheet related to static electricity.  I had students hand in the worksheet and it will be marked.  We then started to look at current electricity and the similarities it has with moving water.  The terms of voltage, current and resistance were introduced.  However we were not able to make it to the assignment for today's lesson.  We covered slides 17-23.  Tomorrow we will finish these notes.

Physical Science 20 - Nov 26

Today we finished looking at enthalpy by studying Hess's Law.  This is where we were able to find the change in enthalpy of a reaction by breaking the reaction down into the parts that make it up.  We looked at the example with cellular respiration.  We then did 2 more examples from Assignment H4.  Tomorrow we will do another example and then have the rest of the class to work on Assignment H4.

Science 90 - Nov 25

Today we went over the assignment from yesterday.  We then learned about electrical conductors and insulators as well as what an electric discharge is.  These notes were covered on slides 12-16 of the electricity powerpoint.  Students were assigned the homework on slide 16.  This includes a handout that I gave today in class.  Make sure to complete that as I will be taking it in for marks.

Tomorrow we will start to look at current electricity.

Physical Science 20 - Nov 25

Today we spent a lot of time going over Assignment H3 on combined heat problems.  This was in preparation for the take home assignment on calculating quantities of heat.  I handed this out in class today.  We began to learn about enthalpy today.  We learned how they measure the energy that is available in foods.  One can simply use that food to heat up water and determine the heat change in water or one can break done the food into its parts (fat, carbs, protein, etc) and know the energy in the parts, one can figure out the energy of the whole.  This will apply when we are finding the energy present in chemical reactions.

This was all covered in the powerpoint called Enthalpy.  We covered slides 1-11.  Students were given a notes handout that they used to follow along with the presentation.  This allowed students to just listen the presentation.  Tomorrow we will finish the notes on Enthalpy.

Physics 30 - Nov 25

Today we had a work period to prepare for the various things that are happening this week in class.  Students took the time to prepare for the unit 3 exam which is on Thursday.  They also worked on getting Lab 3.2 done, which they will be handing in on Friday this week.  As well, some students worked at correcting their lab 3.1 reports.

Tomorrow we will be having another work period.

Science 90 - Nov 24

Today we started our new unit on electricity.  We learned what causes electricity as well as how objects can become charged.  This was all covered in the new powerpoint in the Electricity folder in the Science 90 course notes link.  The powerpoint is labelled Characteristics of Electricity.  We covered slides 1-10 and students spent the remainder of class working on slide 11.  This will be checked tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will look at conductors and insulators as well as electric discharges.

Physical Science 20 - Nov 21

Today we learned how to solve heat problems that involve multiple steps.  These are called combined heat problems that change temperature and change phase.  This was covered on slides 20-27 in the notes powerpoint.  We went through a couple of examples and then had the remainder of the period to work on Assignment HT3.  We will go over this on Monday.  Have a great weekend everyone.

Physics 30 - Nov 21

We didnt do anything new today.  Period 1 watched the video that Period 5 watched yesterday.  Check the post for yesterday to see the video if you missed it.  They spent the remainder of the class working on the lab report as well as getting ready for the in class assignment.   In period 5 today, students were required to complete the Tell Them From Me survey.  After the survey, we discussed the lab and students spent the rest of the class working.

The due date for the dark matter lab report has not been given yet.  We will discuss it more next week.  Have a great weekend everyone.

Science 90 - Nov 20

Today students had the class period to study for their exam in chemistry tomorrow.  Remember that students can hand in their reviews tomorrow for an extra 5% on their exam.  Good luck tomorrow everyone.

Physical Science 20 - Nov 20

Today we went over Assignment HT1 and then learned what happens to heat during when phase changes.  What students need to remember is that phase changes occur without a change in temperature.  This means to calculate the heat required to change a phase of matter, we need to use a different relationship than we used for temperature changes.  Two new formulas were introduced on the heats of fusion and the heats of vaporization.  This was covered on slides 12-19.  We then had the rest of class to work on Assignment HT2.  We will go over this tomorrow.

Physics 30 - Nov 20

Today in class we watched a video called The Mystery of Dark Matter.  This was a supplementary video that went along with the concepts we looked at in the lab yesterday.  It is linked below.  There are a couple of worksheets that go along with this video and the concepts that were introduced by the video.  Worksheet 1 is a sheet of questions about information related to the video.  Worksheet 3 is about some calculations you have to do related to the concepts brought forth by the video.  The worksheets are linked here.  There are 5 worksheets in total but you only need to do worksheet 1 and 3.

I haven't assigned a due date yet for this lab.  It will be due sometime after the exam next week.

Here is the video:  Enjoy!!

Science 90 - Nov 19

Today we went over the homework from yesterday on metric conversion.  The answers to that homework is located here.  We learned about scientific notation and significant figures.  Scientific notation is a method that scientists use to write really large or small numbers in a compact from.  It involves 2 parts: a number between 1 and 10 and then a power of ten.

Significant figures are important because we need to concern ourselves with accuracy and precision in a scientific setting.  Accuracy is how close a measurement is to the accepted value.  Precision is how close repeated measurements are to each other.  We learned rules on how to count significant figures and were just about to do some examples when the bell went.  We will finish this tomorrow in class and then have the rest of the period to study for your exam on Friday.

Physical Science 20 - Nov 19

Today students handed in Assignment 1.1 associated with solving word problems.  After that we went through a couple of examples involving specific heats.  We didn't go through all the examples in the notes.  We only did examples 1, 2, 5 and 8.  Students then spend the rest of the class working on Assignment HT1.  We will go over this tomorrow and start to look at phase changes tomorrow.

Physics 30 - Nov 19

Today in class we did a lab that looked at the relationship between the velocity of an object undergoing circular motion and the force that causes that motion.  We will then extrapolate this to look at the motion of the stars in galaxies and how they are moving much faster than the forces visible suggest they should.  This is the proof of the existence of dark matter.  Students spent the class today gathering data and began analyzing it.   I have developed some notes that should help students analyze this data.  I will explain it in class.  It is linked here.

Students who were absent can use data gathered from friends in class.  Or you can use the sample data set that I have linked here.  Just choose 1 set of data.  This lab report will not be due until next week.  We will talk about this in class.

Science 90 - Nov 18

Today in class we looked at the metric system and how to do metric conversions.  Students learned a method called dimensional analysis.   This method is tricky to figure out but when students master it, it makes converting units really easy.   Students took notes on slides 1-10 in the powerpoint labelled Math Notes.  This is located in the Science 90 Course Notes link.

Students were then assigned the even questions to this assignment -  a metric conversion piece of homework.  This is due tomorrow.

Physical Science 20 - Nov 18

Today in class we finished our notes on solving word problems.  I then started the notes on measuring quantities of heat.  We learned about what specific heat is as well as how to calculate changes in heat.  This was covered on slides 1-8 in the powerpoint labelled Measuring Quantities of Heat.  This is found in the folder for heat in the Physical Science 20 Course Notes Link.

At the end of class, students worked on an assignment for solving word problems.  This was called Assignment 1.1 and it is due tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will be working on solving some problems involving specific heat and changes in heat.

Physics 30 - Nov 18

Today in class we finished up our notes on planetary motion by doing example 27.  Students then had the rest of the period to work on Assignment 3.8.  Tomorrow we will be doing Lab 3.2.  Make sure you have the handouts for the lab.

In Period 1, we just started our notes on planetary motion which will we finish tomorrow.  To see exactly what we did, check the blog post for last Friday.

Science 90 - Nov 13 & 14

On Thursday, we learned about periodic trends in terms of electron configuration and how valence electrons,valence levels and ionic charge are easily determined using the periodic table.  We also learned how to draw Bohr models for each of the first 20 elements as well as ions associated with those elements.  Students did the homework on Slide 78 and this was checked on Friday.

We went over the homework on Friday.  Students then had the rest of the class to work on the vocabulary chart, which is due on Tuesday.  This will conclude the unit on Chemistry.   Students also began studying for their exam in this unit, which is scheduled for next Friday.  Their is a review at the end of their notes.  Students can complete that for an extra 5% on their exam.  Take advantage of this opportunity.  It is an easy 5% plus the marks you gain from studying for the exam.

Physical Science 20 - Nov 13 & 14

On Thursday, we went over any questions students had about the exam that was on Friday.  We then finished our notes on kinetic molecular theory and started to learn about solving word problems and manipulating formulas.  These are essential skills to have in a course in physics, which we will be heading towards here very soon.  However, some parts in this next unit on heat will require us to know how to solve word problems and work with formulas.

The notes for this are in a powerpoint called Equations and Manipulations in the Physical Science 20 notes link.  We will finish these notes on Tuesday and move on from there.

Your exams are marked and you will get the marks on Tuesday.  However you will not be getting the exams back as 4 students were absent from the exam and we have to wait until they have written them.  Have a great weekend everyone.

Physics 30 - Nov 13 & 14

On Thursday, we finished up our notes on uniform circular motion with examples 22 and 23.  Students then had the rest of the class to work on Assignment 3.7.  On Friday, we started looking at planetary motion and Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation.  This law states that there is a force that exists between any two objects that have mass.  This force is proportional to their mass and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between the masses.  We did examples 24 and 25 which used this law.  We then looked at how gravity causes uniform circular motion, particularly with objects in orbit around planets and stars.  This is called gravitational motion.  It is born from the fact that the centripetal force that causes the motion is supplied by gravity.  We derived some interesting relationships with this fact.  We then did example 26 but ran out of time to get to Assignment 3.8.  We will get there on Tuesday after we finish example 27.

We are one class behind in Period 1.  We just began looking at uniform circular motion on Thursday and finished the notes on Friday.  On Tuesday we will begin looking at planetary motion.  I hope everyone has another good long weekend.

Physical Science 20 - Chemistry Unit Review

I apologize for not being in class today everyone but I had a couple of students come and ask me later today about the unit review.  I wasn't able to put one together but I did upload a whole bunch of worksheets to the course notes link for those of you that want extra practice.  There are worksheets on stoich, the mole, reactions, naming.  Do was much as you like to prepare for the exam.  We can talk about it more tomorrow in class.  I will hand back your in class assignments for stoichiometry tomorrow.

Science 90 - Nov 12

Today in class we learned about chemical equations and the purpose of them.  As well we learned about how the periodic table is structured as well as some common groups in the periodic table.  This was covered on slides 66-74.  Students were then given the rest of class to work on the homework on slide 75.  This will be checked tomorrow.

We are also getting to the end of the unit.  That means that we will soon have a unit exam.  It is scheduled for next Friday, Nov 21.  Students that want to get a jump on the studying for it can start working on the review found at the end of the notes handouts.

Physics 30 - Nov 12

I had to be away from school today in the morning but in the afternoon in Period 5 we started to learn about uniform circular motion.  This is motion that travels along a circular path at a very constant rate.  Even though the motion is uniform, the direction is constantly changing and this is caused by a centripetal acceleration.  These accelerations are caused by centripetal forces.  The key thing to know about centripetal forces is that they are caused by other forces, they do not exist on their own.  We went through slides 60 - 66 and did examples 19, 20 and 21.  Tomorrow we will finish the lesson with examples 22 and 23 and get a chance to work on Assignment 3.7.  Period 1 will be doing what we learned today in Period 5.

Reminder that the lab report for Lab 3.1 is due tomorrow.  Good luck with question #9.

Physical Science 20 - Nov 9

I am going to have to change the date of the exam Thursday, Nov 13 to Friday, Nov 14.  There were some issues with the schedule that have forced me to move it back.  Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.  However I am sure most of you are fine with it being pushed back a day.  Please pass on the information to other students in the class.  As well, I want to get a review prepared for you to help you study for the exam.  Check back later (possibly tomorrow or Tuesday).  I will post the review on the blog.

Have a great rest of your long weekend everyone.

Science 90 - Nov 7

We did our quiz on the first half of our chemistry unit today.  However we were missing many students today for some reason or another.  Students who were absent today will be writing the quiz on Wednesday at lunch.  Make sure you come at the start of lunch.  After students finished writing their quizzes today, then they worked on Activity B15, which will be due on Wed after the long weekend as well.  Have a great weekend everyone.

Physics 30 - Nov 7

Today we did Lab 3.1 - The mu of your shoe.  Students measured the coefficients of kinetic and static friction of their shoes using some very simple lab equipment.  The report for this lab is due on Thursday, Nov 13.  For students who were absent today, there is a sample set of data in the course notes link under Unit 3 folder.  Have a great long weekend everyone!!

Science 90 - Nov 6

Today in class I checked the homework that was assigned on Tuesday.  We didn't have time to go over it today.  We did Activity B15 today in class.  This activity involved students making 3D models of different compounds.  Most students were able to finish making all the different models.  This activity is due tomorrow.  If you were absent today, you need to come in at lunch to complete this activity.

Reminder that tomorrow you have your quiz on chemistry.  Check the previous blog posts to see what to study.

Physical Science 20 - Nov 6

Today in class we almost finished our notes on kinetic molecular theory.  We covered slides 10-18.  There are just a couple more slides to finish next week.  Remember tomorrow we are going to the theatre to sign up for the PSE day.

Physics 30 - Nov 6

Today we finished example 18 and then the students had the rest of the class to work on Assignment 3.6.  Students we also made aware of the lab we are doing tomorrow where we will measure the coefficient of static and kinetic friction of our shoes.  We will also have a contest tomorrow for the student who brings in the most unique shoe.  The most unique shoe, as determined by me, will win a prize!!

Science 90 - Nov 4

Today students finished their notes on molecular compounds.  We then looked at chemical formulas and how to count atoms in a chemical formula.  During the last 30 minutes of class, students were assigned a worksheet on counting atoms in formulas as well as some questions from the textbook.  Student are to read pages 167-172 in the textbook and answer questions #1-4 on pg 171 as well as questions #1-5,9 on pg 173.  These questions will be checked on Thursday.  Tomorrow students have a day off from class and an experience in the workforce.  Have fun with the real world.

Physical Science - Nov 4

Today we began looking at our unit on heat.  This involved watching a short crash course video linked below on energy and how that affects heat.  We then started looking at Kinetic Molecular Theory and how that can explain the concepts of temperature and heat.  Students took notes on slides 1-9 from the powerpoint called kinetic molecular theory.  On Thursday we will finish these notes.

Reminder that tomorrow students have their in-class assignment on stoichiometry.

Physics 30 - Nov 4

Today in class we started looking at how to some problems involving friction on an incline.  This involved changing our direction systems so that the x-axis is parallel to the incline.  This made solving these problems much easier.  The technique to cover this is on slide 54 and then we solved two examples on slides 55 and 56.

On Thursday, we will have a chance to work on Assignment 3.6.  Tomorrow you have your in class assignment on the first half of this unit.  Students should know how to do assignments 3.1 to 3.4.

Science 90 - Oct 31 & Nov 3

On Friday in class we learned about the structure of an atom and how to determine the amount of various subatomic particles.  This was accomplished by going through the notes on slides 45-52 in the notes powerpoint.  We also learned the difference between an atom and an ion.  Students were then given the rest of class to work on Worksheet 1.  This was a table that students needed to complete by filling in various amounts of information based on atomic structure.

I checked that work today.  We then went over the answers and I assigned the backside of the worksheet.  This is due tomorrow.  I am taking this assignment in for marks.  We also learned how elements come together to form compounds.  There are two types of compounds and we learned about.  The first type are called ionic compounds.  These types of compounds form between metals and non-metals.  This was covered on slides 55-58.  I ended the lesson early so that students could work on the atomic structure assignment that is due tomorrow.

I have also set the date for the quiz in the unit.  It will occur on Friday, Nov 7.  The following information will be on the quiz

•Lab Safety and WHMIS

•Mixtures and Pure Substances

•Chemical and Physical Properties

•Atomic Models

•Atomic Structure

Physical Science 20 - Nov 3

Today students were given the period to work on Assignment C26.  We will go over this tomorrow.  This concludes the unit on chemistry.  Tomorrow we will start looking at heat.  A reminder to students that you have an in class assignment on stoichiometry on Wednesday, Nov 5.  It will be on everything we have done in stoichiometry.

Physics 30 - Oct 31 & Nov 3

On Friday, we finished our notes on friction by finishing examples 15 and 16.  This left us with about 30 minutes to work on Assignment 3.5.  Today in class students wrote the quiz for Lab 2.1 and then had the remainder of the class to work on Assignment 3.5.

Tomorrow we will learn how to deal with friction when the surface the object isn't level but actually on an angle.  Reminder that the in class assignment that was suppose to be for tomorrow was moved to Wednesday, Nov 5.  It is on Assignments 3.1-3.4.

Science 90 - Oct 30

Today we examined some of the common elements in nature and the properties they have.  Elements such as hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, sodium, chlorine.  This was covered on slides 37-42 in the notes powerpoint. Students were then given a periodic table as well as a worksheet labelled worksheet 3.  This will be due tomorrow along with the questions on slide 43.  See you all tomorrow for a very spooky Friday!!!

Physical Science 20 - Oct 30

Today students wrote their stoichiometry quiz.  They then followed it up with some more work with limiting reactants.  The handout that the sub gave today was just for more practice.  It is not due.  Tomorrow we will go over Assignment C25.  We will also look at percent yield tomorrow.

Physics 30 - Oct 30

Today we started looking at the force of friction and how it works.  We learned that friction only depends on the material that the surfaces in contact are made of as well as the normal force that the surface supplies to the object.  We learned about the difference between kinetic friction and static friction as well as how to calculate each value.  This was covered on slides 43-50.  We did a couple of examples as well but didn't quite get to assignment 3.5.  We will get there tomorrow.  On Halloween.  BWUhahahahaha (that sounded creepier in my head)

Science 90 - Oct 29

Today in class we went over the homework from yesterday after I checked it.  We then started to learn about the elements and how they are categorized.  This was covered on slides 33-36.  Tomorrow we will continue with a look at some of the common elements in nature.  There was no assignment with today's lesson.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 29

Today in class we learned some real world stoichiometry.  So far we have learned how to do stoichiometry under ideal situations.  Today we learned what a limiting reactant is.  A limiting reactant is a reactant in a chemical reaction that limits how much product you can make.  Problems that ask you to find the limiting reactant are no different than other stoichiometry problems but you usually have to do stoichiometry twice.  You are given a certain amount of each reactant, and you have to determine how much product will form.  To do that, you must to stoichiometry with each reactant and whichever yields the lower amount of product will be the limiting reactant.

The notes that we took today were on slides 16-24.  Students then had the rest of class to work on Assignment C25.  You will get more time tomorrow to work on this assignment, but you will also be writing a quiz on stoichiometry tomorrow.  This quiz is just going to cover ideal stoichiometry, or Assignment C24.

Physics 30 - Oct 29

Today we started to look at specific types of forces.  We began with an examination of the force of gravity.  This is also called an object's weight, although not to be confused with an object's mass.  The one lesson I wanted students to learn today is that mass and weight do not mean the same thing.  Mass is a measure of the amount of matter an object has whereas weight is the force of gravity on that object.  One is measured in kilograms, the other in newtons.

We learned about the differences between weight and the normal force and also learned what exactly a bathroom scale is measuring.  The concept of apparent weight is really important for students to understand.  This was all covered on slides 36 to 42.  Students were given some time to work on Assignment 3.4 at the end of class, which we will take up tomorrow.

The dates are also set for the first in class assignment in this unit as well as the quiz for Lab 2.1.  The in class assigned, which covers Assignments 3.1 to 3.4, will happen next Tuesday, Nov 4.  The quiz for Lab 2.1 will happen next Monday, Nov 3.

Science 90 - Oct 28

We got settled into our new classroom today and students learned about atomic theory and how it developed over time.  We also learned about the significance of scientific models and the difference between scientific theories and scientific laws.  These notes were covered on slides 23-31 in the chemistry notes powerpoint and then students had a chance to work on the homework given on slide 32.  It is quite a large assignment and will be checked tomorrow.  Make sure you have it done.

Tomorrow we will start looking at the elements and how they are categorized.  After going over the homework of course.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 28

Today students had another period to work on Assignment C24.  We will go over this one tomorrow.  As well, tomorrow we are moving on to look at real stoichiometry.  This will start with an examination of the limiting reactant and then a look at percent yield.  Students wanting to check their answers for Assignment C24 can look in the course notes link.

Reminder to bring a non-perishable item for the food back.  There was a list of desirable food items in student notices today.  Check the school website for the notices and the list.

Physics 30 - Oct 28

Today we started our physics adventure anew in a new classroom.  Just so everyone is aware, we have been moved to room 354 probably for the duration of the semester due to the fact that our old classroom is being renovated.

We also learned about Newton's third law of motion today, or that every force has an equal and opposite reactionary force.  It is a fascinating revelation that has many applications.  We looked at some examples of it in our everyday lives (it is the reason we can walk forward) and then we did one example.  Assignment 3.3 was given at the end of class and we will take it up tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will begin to look at certain types of forces with a lesson on gravity and the normal force.

Science 90 - Oct 20 & Oct 21

Yesterday in science we learned about the difference between a chemical and physical property.  This also led into a discussion on the difference between a physical and chemical change.  This was covered on slides 13-16 in the Chemistry Notes powerpoint.  The students were then given the rest of the class to work on the assignment on slide 17.  We went over that homework today and then did an activity where we made crystals out of a supersaturated solution of borax and water.  Students then answered some questions associated with the activity and I did some demonstrations at the end of class.

Tomorrow we will look at the history of the models of the atom and how atomic theory has changed over time.  We will also look at our crystals and see how they have grown overnight.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 21

With the in class assignment that we did yesterday, that concludes the 2nd outcome in the chemistry unit.  Today we moved onto the 3rd outcome which is stoichiometry.  The powerpoint for this unit is linked in the course notes folder.  Today we learned about molar ratios that we are given in a balanced chemical equation.  We also learned how to use these molar ratios to figure some things out about reactants and products.

I assigned Assignment C23 at the end of class.  We will go over this tomorrow.

Science 90 - Oct 16

Today in class I went over the homework that was given on Wednesday after I checked it and then we watched a video on the states of matter.  Students were given a sheet of questions to answer.  We didn't quite get done the video so we will finish it on Monday.  Have a great weekend everyone.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 16

Today students got a chance to work on Assignment C22 which was a review of everything we have done so far with moles.  It was a review to all the molar conversions we have done.  Students worked on this for the whole class.  The answers are in the course notes link.

On Monday we are going to have a class period to work on an assignment that we serve as a review to the mole as well as reactions.  Students will have to work through some questions where they are given the reactants to a chemical reaction and they will have to predict the products based on their knowledge of the different types of reactions.  As well, students will be given some questions where they have to preform molar conversions similar to what they saw in Assignment C22.  These questions will be due at the end of the class period.  These questions will be assessed and given a numerical grade.  You will not be allowed to redo this assignment.  Make sure you are ready for it.

Physics 30 - Oct 16

We had a shortened period today due to interviews.  However that didn't stop the fun.  We learned about Newton's First Law of Motion today, or the Law of Inertia.   After students took a couple of slides of notes (slides 16-17) we then looked at many different examples of inertia as well as a couple of interesting demonstrations of the first law.  There was no assignment that went along with this lesson.

Reminder of your exam on Monday.  Make sure to bring a pencil, eraser, calculator, ruler and protractor.  For those students in Period 1, if you want to get started early on the exam, I will be at school around 8 am.  For the students in Period 5, if you require more time for the exam, I will remain after school until 4 pm.

Science 90 - Oct 15

Students were given their Reproduction Exams back today to go over.  We then finished the notes that we started yesterday.  This was all covered on slides 2-12 in the Chemistry Notes powerpoint, which can be found in the Science 90 Notes link on the right hand side of the webpage here.  Students spent the rest of class working on the assignment given on slide 12.  Along with questions from the textbook to answer, this also involved defining some the terms that were introduced in this lesson.  This is to be done on a separate handout called Chemistry Key Terms that students received today.  It contains a lot of terms, but students only have to define the ones listed in the homework for today.  This will be checked tomorrow.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 15

Today in class we went over the examples that students copied down yesterday as well as one extra example.  Students then spent the rest of the class working on Assignment C21 as well as finishing their lab reports for Lab C3, both of which are due tomorrow.  The examples that we went over are on slides 39, 40 and 59 of the Mole powerpoint.

Tomorrow we are going to get a chance to work on Assignment C22, which will serve as a review for everything we have done thus far with the mole.

Physics 30 - Oct 15

Welcome to the ides of October everyone!  On this day, we started the new unit on dynamics.  We learned what forces are, general types of forces as well as some of the specific forces that we will be studying.  We also learned what a net force is as well as how to determine the net force.  A new type of diagram was introduced which was the free body diagram.  The FBD for short, will be a vital component to solving problems involving forces.  Assignment 3.1 was assigned and we will take up this assignment on Tuesday.  This was all covered on slides 1-15 on the new powerpoint in the Unit 3 folder.

Tomorrow we will start learning about Newton's Laws of Motion with an examination of the first law of motion.

Science 90 - Oct 14

Today students handed their behaviour self-assessments and we went over the lab safety worksheet.  After that we did a simple activity where we classified different substances based on criteria we defined ourselves.  There was 20 different substances at different stations throughout the classroom and students went from station to station classifying these substances based on their own made criteria.  We then started into the notes on this unit.  I handed out a sent of notes for students to use to follow along with the powerpoint which will be used in this unit.  We will continue with the notes tomorrow.  Make sure to bring your textbooks to class tomorrow.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 14

Today we spent most of the class going over Assignment C20.  We then started looking at solving problems that involved volumes of gases at STP (which means Standard Temperature and Pressure).  This involves using a conversion factor called the molar volume (22.4 L of gas/1 mol  of gas).  Students copied down a couple of examples and then the bell went.  We will solve these problems tomorrow and then work on Assignment C21.

Physics 30 - Oct 14

Today students did the in class assignment for unit 2.  Students who were absent today will make this up tomorrow in class.  Remember that the lab report for Lab 2.1 is due tomorrow.  As well we are starting Unit 3 tomorrow so students might want to print off the notes or the notes handouts.  They are located in the unit 3 folder in the Physics 30 notes link.

Science 90 - Oct 10

Today we started off class by looking at WHMIS and what it is used for.  This ties in with the section on lab safety as well as the first part of the unit on classification.  We watched a video which students used to make notes from.  It is linked below.  We then talked about lab equipment.  Students used the handout they got in class yesterday to make notes from the powerpoint (found here) about different lab equipment and what it is used for.  I then gave a handout on lab safety and WHMIS that students need to complete by Tuesday.  On Tuesday, we will begin looking at how we can classify chemicals.

Students were also given a form that will allow them to assess their learning behaviour skills thus far in the class.  Students are to answer the questions honestly and discuss their assessment with their parents.  Their parents need to sign the form and it needs to come back to class on Tuesday.  Students who were absent on Friday can find the form here.  Please print off, fill in and have your parents sign it.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 10

Students wrote the Mole quiz today to start class.  When they finished that, they then finished their measurements for Lab C3.  Students spent the rest of the class working on Assignment C20, which is due on Tuesday, as well as they lab report for Lab C3.  This report is due on Thursday next week and students need to do a formal lab report for this lab.  The format for this type of report is found here if students are unsure what goes on a formal lab report.

Physics 30 - Oct 10

Today we did lab 2.1, where students examined horizontal projectile motion.  They made a couple of measurements of initial parameters and then did a calculation to find a range and then launched a projectile to see if they could hit their target that they calculated.  Students who were absent can find a set of sample data here with which to do the lab with.  The lab report is due on Wednesday next week.  Reminder of your in class assignment on Tuesday.  Know how to do Assignments 2.1 to 2.4.

Have a great long weekend everyone!!

Science 90 - Oct 9

Today we learned about lab safety and the procedures we will be following to ensure the safety of everyone involved.  There was a handout that students received that we went over in some detail.  Tomorrow we will continue this with a look at WHMIS or Workplace Household Material Information System.  As well we will learn about lab equipment and then start into some classifying of some chemicals.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 9

We didn't have much time today due to the shortened day but we learned how to work with questions that involve molarity.  This was covered on slides 23-28 in the Mole Powerpoint.  We didn't quite get to Assignment C20, but students will have time to work on this tomorrow.  Remember that we have the Mole quiz tomorrow.  Students need to know how to do Assignments C17-C19.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 7 & 8

Yesterday in class I gave the students time to work on Assignments C18 and C19.  These assignments are quite long and involve working with moles, something most students are unfamiliar with.  I felt it was to their advantage to have some more class time to work on this.  We will take these assignments up tomorrow.  Today we started working on Lab C3, which we will finish tomorrow.

We are going to have our first quiz in this outcome on the mole on Friday.  Students should know how to do Assignments C17-C19 in order to study for this quiz.

Physics 30 - Oct 8

Today we did a particularly difficult example with Example 9 - or as I call it the Evel Knievel example.  It was a tricky problem to solve as it involved many substitutions and a tough equation in the end to solve.  However we were able to solve it using some tricks from algebra.  Students then used the rest of the class to work on Assignment 2.4.  We will take this assignment up tomorrow.

Physics 30 - Oct 7

Today in class we finished doing example 7 and 8 and began looking at example 9.  Tomorrow we will finish example 9 and get some time to work on Assignment 2.4.  In the meantime, check out the video links to get some inspiration for example 9.

Science 90 - Oct 6

Today we wrapped up our Reproduction Unit by going over the assignment given on Friday.  I also gave a study guide today to help with organizing your studying going into the exam on Wednesday.
Know the following for the exam

1. The Cell - Plant and Animal
2. Types of Reproduction
• Asexual - methods for plants and animals
• cell division (mitosis)
• Sexual
• Flowering plants
3. Genetics
• genes, traits, characteristics, dominance
• DNA - know the base pairs and how it works!!
4. Human Reproduction
• male/female reproductive systems
• menstrual cycle - know the 4 hormones involved
• pregnancy and conception
• contraception and reproductive technologies

The exam will include a section on matching, fill in the blank, diagrams as well as short answer.  The exam is out of 84 marks.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 3 and Oct 6

On Friday, we started looking at the concept of the mole and what we use it in chemistry for.  We also learned what molar mass is and how to calculate it.  This was covered on slides 1-11 on the powerpoint called The Mole.  It is found in the chemistry folder of the Physical Science 20 notes. Students then spent the rest of the class working on Assignment C17, which was on calculating molar masses for various elements and compounds.

Today we started to learn how to use the mole to convert between masses of substances and number of particles of substances.  This is called molar conversions and was covered on slides 15-19 of the same powerpoint.  Assignments C18 and C19 were given at the end of the class, however you will be given more time tomorrow to work on them.

Physics 30 - Oct 6

Today we started looking at projectile motion.  The key to solving projectile motion is to break the motion up into 2 parts - one horizontal part and one vertical part.  We need to treat each part separately and solve them individually.  The nice thing about this method is it allows us to deal with two 1D problems.  The horizontal motion, because there is no acceleration, doesn't change and therefore is uniform motion.  The vertical motion is influenced by gravity and therefore we are dealing with a constant motion problem.

I did a couple of demonstrations to show this concept.  As well, I discussed a thought experiment called the hunter-monkey demonstration.  I showed a video that demonstrated the experiment.  It is linked right here.  Crazy Hunter-Monkey Demo

We started solving Example 7 but didn't quite finish it.  We will finish it tomorrow as well as examples 8 and hopefully get started on Example 9.

Science 90 - Oct 2 & 3

Today we did Activity A28 on page 92 in the textbook.  This activity allowed us to look at the four hormones that are responsible for the female menstrual cycle.  We learned how these hormones work in tandem to signal different changes in the cycle, including ovulation and menstruation.  Students handed in Activity A28 at the end of the class.  Tomorrow we will learn about pregnancy and about contraception and artificial fertilization technologies.  This will be covered on slides 109-112.  We will conclude the unit with a small assignment on slide 113.  I will be checking this assignment on Monday.

Physical Science 20 - Oct 2

Today students were able to collect the rest of their data for Lab C2.  I also showed students how to make some of the conversions at the end of the lab.  The one where you had to convert the volume into Lake Superiors was a particularly tricky conversion.  Tomorrow we will begin to look at the concept of the mole and what it is.

Physics 30 - Oct 2 & 3

Today we finished looking at example 6 and began working on Assignment 2.3.  Example 6 was another example to show how to work with vector resolution.  This time though we were adding 3 vectors together instead of 2.  Students then spent the rest of the class working on Assignment 2.3, which we will continue with tomorrow.  Many students will be missing tomorrow due to the U of S Open House.  We will start looking at projectile motion on Monday.

Science 90 - Sept 30

Today in class we spent time going over homework that I had assigned last week.  We also spent time talking about the exam that I scheduled for next week on Wed, Oct 8.  I gave a review today in class that students can work on and help them study for.  Students who complete the review and hand it in on the day of the exam can get an extra 5% bonus on the exam itself.  Here is the review.

•Questions pg 38

–#1-5,7,9-12,15,16,18,19,24-26,29

•Questions pg 74

–#1-3,5,6,9,12,22,23

•Questions pg 110

–#2-5,7,9-12,15,18,20,23,24

•Know all diagrams

–Plant/animal cells

–Mitosis

–Flower parts

–Male/female reproductive systems

Physical Science 20 - Sept 30

Today we had an abbreviated class due to the lockdown drill.  After the drill, we jumped into learning how to do unit conversions.  The method that I used to teach this was called dimensional analysis.  It works for any type of unit conversion, from the metric to the imperial system.  I gave a worksheet for students to work on for the remainder of the class.  I strongly urge students to use the method taught in class rather than something that they learned in earlier science classes.  This will make your understanding of stoichiometry much easier.

Physics 30 - Sept 30

Today we learned how to add non-collinear vectors together.  We did an example before where we added two vectors together but we learned that this approach (a graphical approach) is inaccurate.  Today we did an example where we added vectors together using the mathematical approach that we learned yesterday.   The vector resolution method led us to an answer that was more accurate than a scale diagram.  It involved breaking each vector into its x and y components then adding all x components together and adding all y components together.  The results from this give you the components of your resultant vector, and then we just use Pythagoras Theorem and the tan identity to figure out the resultant vector.

We did Example 5 today.  On Thursday we will do example 6 and students will then have some time to work on Assignment 2.3.  Reminder of your exam tomorrow.

Science 90 - Sept 29

Today we went to the library to do a little research on some current genetic technologies.  Students were directed to the website learn.genetics.utah.edu and needed to learn information on each of these four technologies - stem cells, cloning, genetic therapy, and transgenic mice.  They had to answer the following questions about each technology:

1.What is the technology?
2.How is being used?
3.What are 3 cool things that we might be able to do with this technology in the future?
4.What is your ethical opinion about this technology?

This is all due tomorrow.  Tomorrow we are going to go through all this homework that I have given you over the past couple of days.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 29

Today we started the new outcome on the mole.  The concept of the mole relies heavily on math so we need to spend some time looking at significant figures and scientific notation as well as metric conversion.  Today we learned how to work with measurements and round off to the correct number of significant figures.  I assigned a worksheet to practice all of this.  Students picked this up today in class.  Tomorrow we will learn about metric conversion.

I also assigned a take home assignment to conclude our section on chemical reactions.  Assignment C16 is due on Thursday, Oct 2.  Students will hand this in for marks.

Physics 30 - Sept 29

Today we learned how to break a vector into its components.  This method is called vector resolution and involves resolving a vector into a horizontal and vertical component - or what we call an x and y component.  This method involved using trig identities and Pythagoras's Theorem.  Examples 2,3, and 4 were covered.  Students were given the last 15 minutes to work on Assignment 2.2.  Tomorrow we will be moving on and looking at non-collinear vectors and how to work with them.

Science 90 - Sept 25 & 26

Yesterday I checked the homework that students worked on from Wednesday.  We also did a little activity where we extracted DNA from strawberry plants.  The activity is located in the course notes link.  Students handed in that activity today.  As well today, we had a discussion panel on ethical problems that arise from genetic technology.  Students were broken into 3 separate groups and given a list of scenarios related to genetic technologies and decided what to do in each case.  At the end of class we came together and went over our decisions and discussed the issues that came up in our groups.  I gave the students some homework to do after this and they are to complete it and have it done for Tuesday.  Students are to read pages 58-70 in the textbook and define the following terms:

• Selective Breeding
• Artificial Reproductive Technology
• Genetic Engineering

As well, they need to answer questions #3,6,7,9,10 on page 70.  On Monday, we will be heading to the library to do some a small research project on genetic technologies.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 26

Today we looked at the lab and went over our results from the lab on Tuesday.  I explained the rationale for developing one of the net ionic equations and figuring out the precipitate.  We then spent the rest of the class finishing the lab reports.  On Monday we will begin looking at the mole.  Have a great weekend everyone.

Physics 30 - Sept 25 & 26

Yesterday, we did our quiz on Lab 1.2.  After the quiz, we started our 2nd unit on vectors.  We finished the first lesson on scale diagrams and direction systems today and Assignment 2.1 was assigned.  We will take this up on Monday.  Have a great weekend everyone.

Science 90 - Sept 22

We started looking at the science of genetics today.  Students handed in their labs from Friday and I checked the homework that was assigned last Thursday.  After we went over it, we started learning about traits and heredity. This was covered on slides 81-83.  We also did Activity A8 on page 28, where looked at comes common traits in the student body, and tried to determine which were dominant and which were recessive.

We finished off the class with the assignment on slide 83.  Students are to read pages 41-45 tonight and answer questions #2,3,5,6,7 on page 45.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 22

Today in class we finished our notes on double replacement reactions.  We learned how to make the overall ionic equation and then move from there to the net ionic equation.  I assigned Assignment C15 at the end of class and students will have to have that completed for Wednesday.

This concludes our work with Outcome FC1.  Tomorrow we will do a lab that looks at double replacement reactions and forming precipitates.  We will begin looking at outcome FC2 soon.

Science 90 - Sept 18 & 19

On Thursday, we finished looking at methods for how plants sexually reproduce.  This involved looking at the flower particularly and how it has evolved to allow for multiple means of pollination.  We then watched a video on the different tricks flowers have developed to aid pollination.  The video is linked in the course videos folder.  Students then spent the rest of class working on the assignment on slide 79.  We will take this assignment up on Monday.

On Friday, we did our first lab where students had a chance to look at the parts of a flower close up.  This involved dissecting a flower and examining the key structures under a microscope.  There was a small handout that students had to do.  This is also due on Monday.  We will being to look at the science of genetics on Monday and how that has played a role in who we are today.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 18 & 19

On Thursday, we began looking at how we can use our knowledge on reaction types to predict the products of a chemical reaction.  Knowing what the reactants are, we can then identify what type of reaction will occur and use that to predict the likely products.  Sometimes however, reactions don't occur.  This only happens in specific situations with single replacement and double replacement reactions.

In a single replacement reaction, in order for a reaction to occur, the element doing the replacing has to be more active than the element that is being replaced.  Activity is determined by looking at where the element is located on an activity series.  We finished the lesson on Thursday by working on Assignments C13 and C14.

On Friday, we started looking at double replacement reactions and determining whether or not a reaction will occur.  This involved using another table called a solubility table to determine whether or not a compound was soluble in water.  We went through how to use this table and did a couple of examples to determining solubility.  We didn't quite get to assignment C15, but we will on Monday.

Physics 30 - Sept 18 & 19

On Thursday and Friday we started looking at how to solve problems that involve constant acceleration.  The kinematics equations were introduced on Thursday and we looked at a couple of examples on how to use the equations.  On Friday, we looked at a particular tricky example called a twin object problem.  This type of problem involved looking at the motion of two separate objects that are linked somehow.  We ended up developing new equations based on kinematics and would have to employ the quadratic formula to solve these new equations.  Assignments 1.5 and 1.6 were assigned but students will be given some time on Monday to work on them.

We are also approaching the end of the unit.  This means that some things will be happening.  The first In Class Assignment is set for Wed, Sept 24.  The first unit exam is set for a week after that on Wed, Oct 1.  As well, we are going to have our first lab quiz for Lab 1.2 on Thurs, Sept 25.  If you are going to be away on any of these dates, please come and talk to me.

Science 90 - Sept 17

Today we went over the assignments from yesterday. We then started to look at how plants reproduce sexually.  We looked at the structure that plants have developed to increase genetic diversity - the flower.  Slides 70-77 were covered in the powerpoint.  We started learning the difference between self-pollination and cross-pollination.  However the class ended before we got to the assignment.  This will happen tomorrow.  

Science 90 - Sept 16

Today we learned about the different methods for asexual reproduction in plants and animals.  This was covered on slides 64-69 in the powerpoint.  Students should know the different processes by which plants and animals asexually reproduce.  The end of class was spent on working on a couple of assignments.  Student are to read pages 11-14 in their textbooks and answer questions #5-7, 9 and 10 on page 15.  As well, students need to read pages 18-23 and answer questions #1,2,5,6 and 12 on page 23

Tomorrow we will begin to look at sexual reproduction in plants.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 16

Today we learned about the different types of reactions.  There were six different types of reactions: synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, double replacement, combustion and neutralization.  This was covered on slides 32-40 in the powerpoint.  As well, I went over the difference between and complete and incomplete combustion reaction.  In complete combustion, the products will always be carbon dioxide and water.  This happens when there is excess oxygen present to react with.  In incomplete combustion, the products are always carbon monoxide and water.  This happens when there is insufficient oxygen to react with.

Students spent the end of class working on Assignment C12.  Tomorrow our class will be cut short due to mass, but we are going to have a quiz tomorrow on nomenclature when we get back from mass.  Make sure you know how to name compounds and write formulas for them.  Study Assignments C1-C8, with the exception of C7.  There will not be organic nomenclature on this quiz.  Focus on Assignment C8

Physics 30 - Sept 16

Today we finished going over example 7 in the notes.  It was a rather long example where we figured out a bunch of stuff from a velocity time graph.  We also did example 8.  In this example, we learned how to translate a position time graph into a velocity time graph.  For the rest of class we worked on Assignment 1.4.  We will have more time to do this tomorrow.

Science 90 - Sept 15

Today we watched a video on mitosis from the series called Crash Course.  It is linked in the course videos link.  Make sure you watch it if you missed class today.  As well, if you didn't catch some things then watch it again.  We also started learning about what causes cancer today.  Some notes were taken.  We went over slides 55-58 on the powerpoint.  Tomorrow we are going to learn about asexual reproduction in plants and animals.  There was no homework assigned for today.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 15

In class today we talked about some homeroom things that took a little while. We then went over Assignments C9 and C10 on balancing.  As well, I reviewed the lesson from Friday that the sub taught you.  We will go over the answers to Assignment C11 tomorrow.  As well, there are 5 videos in the course link that I want you to watch in preparation for class tomorrow.  We will be learning about the types of reactions.  Those videos will help refresh your mind about types of reactions.

Physics 30 - Sept 15

We started looking at accelerated motion today in class.  The definition for acceleration was given and we also looked at a new type of graph called a velocity time graph.  We learned another way of getting information from a graph as well.  By calculating the area under a graph, we can get a whole bunch of information from a graph, most importantly the displacement of an object from a velocity time graph.  Tomorrow we will look at example 7 and example 8 and hopefully get a chance to work on Assignment 1.4.

Science 90 - Sept 11 & 12

On Thursday, I checked your homework from the previous day on parts of the cell.  We also went through the stages in the cell cycle and learned the importance of them.  On Friday, the sub played a short video on genetic diversity from a series called the Eyes of Nye.  Afterwards, students spent the rest of the class filling out a handout on the parts of the cell as well as filling out a handout on mitosis.  We will take those up on Monday.

Physics 30 - Sept 11 & 12

On Thursday, we did our first lab that looked at how accelerated motion compared to uniform motion when graphed.  It was a pretty simple lab to do.  Every student will need to write up a formal lab report for this lab which is due Monday.  If you missed class on Thursday and do not have the data for the lab, there is a class set available in the course notes link.  As well, the guide on how to write a formal lab report is there as well.  You might require that.

On Friday, the sub let students watch a video while they worked on their lab reports.  Monday we will go over the lab results and start looking at accelerated motion.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 11 &12

On Thursday, we started looking at how chemicals react and how to determine if a chemical reaction took place.  I showed some demonstrations of the signs of a chemical reaction.  We finished by reviewing how to balance chemical equations using coefficients and what changing coefficients does to an equation.  I assigned Assignment C9 at the end of the class.  On Friday, the sub should have taught you about how to change word equations into chemical equations with formulas.  This is a simple extension from nomenclature, which we spent some time learning.  The sub should have assigned Assignments C10 and C11 for students to work on this weekend.

On Monday we are going to look at the different types of chemical reactions.  If students want to get a head start on this stuff, you can watch some videos in the course videos link.  There are 6 videos in total all discussing the next concept.

Science 90 - Sept 10

Today in class we went over the types of structures found in cells and what functions they serve.  We also began looking at the process of cell division and what purpose it serves in living organisms.  Students copied down notes from slides 12-44 in the reproduction notes powerpoint.  The rest of class was spent working on questions from the textbook.  Tomorrow I will be checking the following questions:

• #4-7 on page 6
• #1-5 on page 11

Make sure to bring your textbooks for class tomorrow as we will be using them.  

Physical Science 20 - Sept 10

Today we reviewed nomenclature.  We looked at every type of compound in a mixed review fashion.  At the end of class I assigned Assignment C8.  This assignment will be due tomorrow and I am taking it in to mark.  As well we will begin chemical reactions tomorrow.  Students who wish to bring the notes for tomorrows class, please print them off.

Physics 30 - Sept 10

Today in class we went over Example 5 in your notes.  The example was all about getting information from a position time graph.  We spent a long time going through the example but you need to be able to work through a problem like that in very little time.  Practice makes perfect.  Students spent the end of the class working on Assignment 1.3, which we will go over tomorrow.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 9

Yesterday we learned how to name hydrated compounds as well as the rules for naming acids.  I assigned Assignment C5 and Assignment C6 which we went over today.  Today we got an introductory lesson into the naming conventions for organic chemistry.  There is quite a complicated set of rules that are involved with naming organic molecules.  However, similar to the other nomenclature that we have covered already, it just takes lost of practice to get used to these different rules.  We finished class with Assignment C7.  We will go over this tomorrow.

Science 90 - Sept 9

Yesterday I checked your homework on variables and the different types of observations.  We also did a little group activity where we developed a definition of science based on some common ideas that we determined in class.  Our discussion about the definition went a little long so we weren't able to go over the homework.  We did that today however and we began our biology unit on Reproduction.  Please check the Science 90 Course Notes link for the powerpoint with the notes on reproduction.

Physics 30 - Sept 9

We began looking at motion yesterday by exploring some of the concepts related to kinematics.  We looked at the definitions of distance, displacement and position as well as the difference between vector and scalar quantities.  We finished those notes today with a look at different representations of motion.  We went through an example of translating a position time graph into a motion diagram.  Assignment 1.2 was assigned and we will go over that tomorrow.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 5

Today we went over the answers to Assignment C1 and C2.  We then learned how to name and write formulas for compounds involving polyatomic ions as well as compounds involving ions with multiple charges.  We finished up by looking at Assignment C3 and C4.  These will be taken up on Monday.  Have a good weekend everyone.

Physics 30 - Sept 5

Today we finished our notes on the review of math skills for physics.  We got our textbooks and spent the end of the class working on Assignment 1.1  We will take this up on Monday.  Have a great weekend everyone.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 4

Today we reviewed the rules for naming molecular compounds and simple ionic compounds.  This was covered on slides 9-34 of the nomenclature powerpoint.  Assignments C1 and C2 were also assigned today.  We will go over these tomorrow.  Please have them completed for tomorrow.

Science 90 - Sept 4

I was mistaken today as to which day we were going to the theatre for the Grade 9 Orientation.  This will occur tomorrow during Period 4.  A reminder to students to come to class tomorrow so I can take attendance and then we will all head to the theatre together.

Today we learned about variables and what they mean in a science context and then we had a little activity that taught us about the different types of variables that we will deal with in a science experiment.  We also learned about the different types of observations that are made when performing a science experiment.  These notes are found on slides 12-15 in the Science 90 Intro Notes powerpoint.  Make sure you have a copy of these notes.

We finished class by working on two pieces of homework that allow us to apply our knowledge of variables and observations.  The first one is called the Variable Worksheet and the second one is called Observation Worksheet.  These are found in the Science 90 course notes link on the right.  These 2 worksheets along with the activity we started yesterday (scientific article summary) is now due on Monday. We will go over everything on Monday and I will be checking these things.

Physics 30 - Sept 4

Today in class we started with some review of skills that you should have learned in Physics 20.  We looked at units and measurements, unit conversion, significant figures, scientific notation and problem solving skills.  In period 1, we only reviewed up to significant figures.  Tomorrow we will finish this with a look at graphing and I will assign your first of many assignments.

Physical Science 20 - Sept 3

Today we finished looking at the course outline and we talked about classroom expectations and procedures.  After all that, we got started on some chemistry.  I reviewed some stuff that you should be able to recall from previous science classes.  How to use the periodic table, what information we can get from the periodic table, how to count protons, neutrons, and electrons, etc.  Then we got into nomenclature.  Nomenclature is a fancy word for naming compounds and elements.  This once again should be review for you from Science 10.  We didn't get too far though through this.  We stopped on slide 9 of the Nomenclature Powerpoint.  Tomorrow we will continue on with this through to the end of multiple cationic charges.  We will be going pretty fast through this stuff as it should just be a review.  Please let me know if you have any questions.

We also watched a video at the start of this section that introduces naming to you.  The video can be found in the Physical Science 20 Video link on the right hand side, but I have also embedded it here.  Enjoy.

Science 90 - Sept 3

We finished looking at the course outline today in class.  A reminder for students if they have any questions about the course outline they can ask me when they get the chance.  We also looked at classroom expectations and procedures.  These procedures and expectations were developed following policies and procedures of our school.  If you are unfamiliar with these, please read your student handbook.  We finished the class by exploring what science is.  I left you with the task of finding an article that you believed was scientific.  You needed to read the article and write a 1 paragraph summary of the article, letting me know what it was about.  As well, you need to explain why you think the article was scientific.  This task will be taken up on Friday.  I believe tomorrow we have a meeting in the theatre that will take all of the class.  Please meet in the classroom tomorrow.

As well, I want to remind students to sign up for Remind 101.  The instructions to do that were posted in yesterday blog post.  If you are unable to do that for whatever reason, please come and talk to me.  There are other ways of signing up rather than through text.

Physics 30 - Sept 3

Today we didn't do much in class but finish the course outline and talk about classroom expectations.  Most students signed up for Remind 101.  If you didn't sign up in class, please do so at home.  The instructions to do so are here.  Make sure you sign up for the correct period.  If you do not want to sign up through text, you can also sign up through email.  Once again, go to the link and the instructions are there.  In period 5, we started a simple activity to get our minds thinking about motion.  We will do this tomorrow in Period 1 and then start looking at the mathematics of physics.

Science 90 - Welcome to Holy Cross High School!!!

Welcome to Holy Cross High School.  I hope your summer went well.  As well, welcome to Science 90!!  This website is put in place as a central location for all the things that go on in the class.  Visit it to find out what you might have missed, if you are missing a handout or just to see the class notes. The links along the right hand side will take you to the files that are important in this class.  As well I will be using Remind 101 to keep you up to date with important items upcoming in our class.  Here is the link on how to sign up for Remind 101.

Physics 20 Final Exam Outline

Here is the exam outline for the final exam in Physics 20

1. Multiple Choice & True/False
• 25 MC and 15 T/F - 40 Marks Total
2. Written
• Mixture of problem solving, graphing, terminology and diagrams
• Some question offer choice (ie: choose to solve 2 out of 3 questions)
• MAKE SURE TO READ THE INSTRUCTIONS IN EACH SECTION

Make sure to bring a pencil, eraser, calculator, ruler and protractor to the final exam.  I will provide you with a formula sheet for the final.  If you want to have a look at the formula sheet, the link is here.

Physics 30 Final Exam Outline

Here is the outline for the final exam in Physics 30

1. Multiple Choice & True/False
• 20 MC and 10 TF - 30 Marks Total
2. Section 2 - Short Problem Solving
• Choose 8 of 10 - 4 Marks Each (32 Marks Total) 
3. Section 3 - Long Problem Solving
• Choose 5 of 7 - 8 Marks Each (40 Marks Total)

Make sure to bring your TEXTBOOK, pencil, eraser, and calculator.  

Physics 30 - Jan 16

Today in class we continued on with the last unit on electricity.  We learned about electrical power and the cost of electrical energy.  Assignment 5.4 was assigned and then we had time to move on so we learned about Kirchoff's laws and how they apply to series circuits.  Examples 16 and 17 were taken up and Assignment 5.5 was assigned.  Tomorrow we will finish up the class by looking at parallel circuits and then doing Assignment 5.6.

Reminder for students in Period 1 who have not handed in their student response forms for the bulletin board project to please do so tomorrow.  Tomorrow is the deadline for those to be handed in.  Students in Period 5 have until next Wednesday, Jan 22 to do so.

Physics 20 - Jan 14

Today in class we wrapped up the course.  We looked at the wave properties of diffraction and interference and what they look like with a 2D wave.  We then compared them to light and noticed that light displays these properties as well.

We then wrapped up the course by looking at light's true nature.  We came up with an interesting conclusion about this.  Look at the powerpoint called Double Slit in the course notes to see the conclusion to the course and find an answer to the question we have been trying to figure out all semester.

Tomorrow in class we are going to take up Homework 5.6 and then you should get the rest of the class to work on the review for the exam on Thursday.

Physics 30 - Jan 14

Today in class we looked at electric circuits, current and resistance.  We learned how to draw schematic diagrams and how to use Ohm's Law.  Examples 10-14 were covered and we ended the class with some time to work on Assignment 5.3.  We will take that up on Thursday.

Remember tomorrow about the unit exam on unit 4.  For students in period 1, if you want to get started early on the exam, I should be at school around 8 am.  You can begin your exam then if you want.

Study hard tonight and good luck tomorrow everyone.