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Physical Science: Intro to Physics

Physical Science: Intro to Physics

From: $90.00 / month for 5 months

Prerequisite:  Completion or concurrent enrollment of Algebra 1

Grades:  9th–10th (or advanced 8th graders)

Class:  Wed 2:00–3:00 p.m. ET

Asynchronous option available

Dates (2nd Sem):  Jan 12–May 8, 2026

Prepaid:  $399

Instructor:  Shelley Wright

Note: Intro to Chemistry is not a prerequisite.

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Description

View Course Syllabus

Asynchronous Option

Not able to attend the live classes? An asynchronous option is available for this course. In the comments section of your order, type Asynchronous option requested.

Course Description

Have you wanted to give your student a solid introduction to the high school sciences? That’s the purpose of a physical science course. In this one-semester course, we will be learning the basics of physics, “the fundamental science”. The two priorities of this course are to prepare the student to successfully complete a future high school Physics course and to expand the student’s appreciation for the amazing complexity and wonder of our physical world.

We will begin our study of physics by examining motion and forces, and then explore energy, electricity, and magnetism. Physics is a quantitative science, so we will be learning to do simple calculations all along the way. During the semester, we will perform three labs and one more involved project. The experiments can be completed at home (adult supervision is advised) using simple household materials. A complete list of materials will be provided prior to the start of classes.

Course Structure

Each week begins with class, followed by students receiving guided notes, videos, textbooks, and web-based reading assignments. Students then complete electronic homework assignments for each lesson in the textbook to assess their understanding of the material they have learned. The live class time is used to answer questions, preview new concepts, observe demonstrations, and reinforce concepts learned during the week, with ample student interaction via the microphone.

Attendance is expected, but the live class is recorded and posted for approximately a month for students who occasionally need to miss class. There is one creative project and several labs during each semester. Occasional worksheets are assigned for students to do by hand, scan, and submit, and a comprehensive test is given for every 2-3 textbook chapters.

Who should enroll?

Students should be in grades 9 or 10. Advanced 8th graders are welcome.

Prerequisite: Completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 1. Intro to Chemistry is not a prerequisite.

Technology Requirements

  • Scientific calculator
  • High-speed, broadband Internet
  • Sound card and microphone (for live sessions)
  • Streaming video capabilities to watch recorded lectures

Evaluation and Feedback

Students will be graded on the following: notes, homework, labs, participation, and unit exams (which are a combination of multiple choice and short answer questions). In addition, any class handouts should be completed, scanned, and uploaded. All student work will be graded and returned within one week of the due date.

Communication

Grades are available for students and parents to view at all times. Parents may contact me throughout the course via the Canvas website.

 

Required Texts

The following text is required:

  • Physical Science: Concepts in Action by Wysession, Frank, and Yancopoulos, Pearson Prentice Hall (2011), ISBN: 978-1418341213 (2011) or ISBN 978-0133628173 (2007)

Additional Materials:

  • scientific calculator
  • kitchen scale
  • various household materials
  • scanner or smartphone to submit some written work
  • A complete list of required lab materials will be sent about 1 month before the course begins. This list will include some specialized equipment and various household materials.

1 review for Physical Science: Intro to Physics

  1. Linsey P. –

    This course introduces chemistry and physics in an interesting and engaging way- leading one into the sciences and leaving them thirsting for more knowledge. Alongside the book, there are in depth lectures, labs, data analises, lectures and extra resources provided for a maximized learning experience. The structure of the lesson plan each week proved different than I’m used to, but all in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this course.

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Instructor Bio

Shelley Wright

Science education is not just a job for me. It is my passion and my hobby. I’ve had this passion since childhood. I am a lifelong learner. My daily goal is to see a love of science ignited in the students and people in my life! After receiving my bachelor’s and master’s degree in microbiology and biochemistry, I went to work in research then quickly realized I missed being a student. . . . So, I became a teacher! Contact: swright [at]aimacademy.online
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All classes taught by Shelley Wright