GRADE: 9th   SUBJECT: Physical Science   COURSE DESCRIPTION: Physical Science is the study of matter and energy. Students will learn what matter is and how it is related to energy.   COURSE BENCHMARKS: 1. Understand and use the SI system of measurement and analyze scientific graphs and charts. 2. Understand motion and forces and the principles that explain them. 3. Understand the nature and classification of matter. 4. Understand the theory, principles, and mechanics of sound and light waves. 5. Understand the theory and principles of electricity and magnetism.   UNITS: A. Physical Science Introduction B. SI Measurement and Graphing C. Motion and Forces D. Simple Machines E. States of Matter F. Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table G. Chemical Reactions H. Sound and Light Waves I. Electricity and Magnetism   BENCHMARK 1: Understand and use the SI system of measurement and analyze scientific graphs and charts. Indicators: A. Know the basic units of length, mass, volume, and temperature of the SI system. B. Use the SI system of measurement. C. Construct and use various forms of graphs and charts. BENCHMARK 2: Understand motion and forces and the principles that explain them. Indicators: A. Recognize, understand, and interpret Newton's three laws of motion. B. Understand the principles of speed, velocity, acceleration, and momentum. C. Identify and analyze the various forms of energy. D. Identify the six simple machines and understand their uses in everyday life. BENCHMARK 3: Understand the nature and classification of matter. Indicators: A. Identify the four states of matter and their characteristics. B. Model the structure of the atom. C. Understand the organization and use of the periodic table. D. Understand the chemical bonding of elements and compounds. E. Demonstrate the ability to write and balance chemical formulas and compounds. BENCHMARK 4: Understand the theory, principles, and mechanics of sound and light waves. Indicators: A. Compare and contrast the characteristics of light and sound waves. B. Identify the characteristics of the electromagnetic spectrum. C. Perform experiments on the optics of mirrors and lenses. D. Examine the role and application of lasers and optical fibers in our society. BENCH MARK 5: Understand the theory and principles of electricity and magnetism. Indicators: A. Recognize and explain the presence of static electricity. B. Compare and contrast static and current electricity. C. Construct electrical circuits and measure voltage, amperage , and resistance. D. Discover and analyze the relationship between electricity and magnetism.