Physical Science Explorations

Welcome to Lori Martin's Physical Science Explorations page!

Here we will attempt to provide a glimpse into the science classroom with weekly inputs from students and instructor. We communicate quite a bit in the class and lab - this is just one more opportunity to share our experiences with those that can't be in the classroom with us:) The idea is to use visuals, scientific terms, show our understanding of concepts and relate our work in the classroom to everyday life. Enjoy!

Welcome Back!!!

It was a "fishy" sort of day in the physical science classroom. We always start the year with a scientific method ("Fortune Fish") activity which usually produces some of the BEST photos of the year :)

This 8th grade group did not disappoint; they showed up by participating, asking good questions, offering ideas and following directions! NICE WORK everyone!!

Chemistry....

What a great day for an demonstration and discussion about gas particles. Student groups are working on pictorials and descriptions that help us model the tiny particles we simply can't see....this is the essence of chemistry, the ability to utilize models that are meaningful and help us to better understand the world around us....and we are JUST getting started:)

Physics....

Let's just say circles, strings, and meter sticks to start the morning out right:) Busy group today gathering data. We'll figure out the resources available for evaluating data over the next few days, setting the stage for the remainder of the year in terms of data management and analysis.

The physics group is amazing; everyone was willing to assist one another, ask questions, explore the physics cabinets (decorative napkins....were there circles on those???) and it was a focused effort. It will be software programs tomorrow and personally, I'm hoping to learn a little more about "Desmos" while students will learn to utilize "LoggerPro"; a win-win situation!

Physical Science

Blogging begins September - "Cu" then!

Week of September 6, 2022

Chemistry

We're working on a 2-week "fast start" of chemistry basics (key concepts that will be used throughout the year). The class has learned about models in science, classification of matter, physical vs chemical change, safe busen burner operation and a variety of chemical equipment set-ups/processes. Lots of participation in this group and a GREAT way to start my day:)

Exploring Science!

This group had an interesting week: microscope use/fiber analysis, pH, turbidity and conductivity. We also had a fun-filled Friday down at the pond! Met an Eastern Hog-Nose along the shore as well:)

Physics.....

Finished introductory concepts (using LoggerPro, accessing Positive Physics, linearization techniques and dimensional analysis) Ended up the week with a lab to model constant particle motion......think noisy little mechanically driven vehicles, some with horns, lights, etc. Hope we didn't interrupt too many classrooms as we were spread throughout the hallways - oops! 😝 We'll share and discuss our data/graphs on Monday. What a great start to the year:)

Physical Science

Student quote: "THIS is Science!" (~Dylan)

It was a busy week in the physical science classroom: safety in the lab, a very controlled flame demonstration (on the lab station - ha!), qualitative / quantitative observations, using the mass balances, accuracy / precision, averages, percent error and testing the strength of differently shaped components. Best of all, we are introducing more laughter into our lives....joke of the week:

Why does the chemistry teacher have such bad jokes?

....because all the good ones Argon! (get it? Ar = argon on the periodic table)

Week of September 12

Physical Science

Okay....so, we had a LITTLE competition happening in the classroom this week. Students used the scientific method to trial 2 shapes for structural strength (using straws and string). They then were able to improve upon their original builds - WOW! We actually ran out of weights for many groups:) Good job all!

Chem and Physics

Chem students are finishing a distillation lab. Their goal was to separate a homogeneous mixture (that would be Dr. Pepper!). We'll see which group had the most reasonable result next week:)

Physics is finishing up with the Constant Particle Motion unit and moving into Accelerated particles. They are making great use of online resources for practice and keeping up with hectic schedules - nice job everyone!!!

Exploring Science!

Continuing our macroinvertebrate studies....will be comparing/contrasting two, different systems next week.

Week of October 3/10(ish)

PHYSICS

Students are exploring vectors and applications for projectile motion this week. We took advantage of a beautiful sunny day out on the football field for some collection of data for a lab:) Way to go PHYSICS people!!!

We are getting ready to embark on our 2nd quarter project, "Adopt a Physicist" - lots happening in the sciences.

Chem

Chem students are learning how to write formulas and name Ionic compounds properly. We just finished a lab where students observed formation of new compounds, wrote their formulas and named them accordingly.
I've got an amazing group of lab-ready chemistry students this year - nice job everyone!!!

Physical Science

In the lab, in the classroom, everyday, the 8th grade class is working to build their teamwork and leadership qualities. This week, we had the unique opportunity to work with the local National Guard to explore our abilities to communicate effectively and work together, regardless of friend groups:)

AMAZING SKILLS shown by all!!!!

Weeks of October 24 and 31

Started new quarter of Exploring Science!

8th grade group is learning to use 2 different types of microscopes and evaluating natural vs man-made fibers in the process. This week, they will also analyze for chemical properties (this involves fire so they are thoroughly looking forward to it!).

Not the Ideal.....

Physics students are seen here In a not-so-Ideal pose but I'm going to ignore that for now as they were celebrating (prob more like, relieved) to find that physics ACTUALLY works! They were able to successfully predict exactly where the marble would land on the floor based upon their own kinematic calculations. YAY, Physics!

Now, on to the Dynamics units (Newton's Laws, balanced vs unbalanced systems and friction)....fun fun fun!

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