Year 9 Physics (core) Course Overview

Course Objectives iGCSE Physics is a two-year course that is both interesting and comprehensive. My Year 9 programme builds on the content and skills acquired in Year 8 Science and is designed to provide students with the knowledge, ability and precision to achieve their full potential in the external iGSCE examinations at the end of Year 10.

Specific Teaching Objectives: As an experienced teacher, I recognize the importance of setting clear and high expectations for my students. Before I outline these expectations, I believe it is equally as important to clarify what you can expect from me. Along with presenting relevant, interesting and concept-based content focused on the Cambridge International Curriculum (CIC), I also aim to fulfill the following specific teaching objectives: Familiarize students with command terms and key science vocabulary Mentor and guide students whilst encouraging independent learning and self-responsibility Inspire and develop critical thinking and problem solving skills Show students how to prepare and present high-quality assignments Improve students laboratory and report writing skills Engage students high order thinking skills through the use of technology Provide opportunities for collaboration with peers both inside the classroom and via the world-wide web Initiate and promote discussion on topical issues and current events in science Teach students how to study science, accompanied with good examination technique

Student Expectations: Further to my specific teaching objectives, the following are expected from all students in my class: Arrive ready to learn with a positive attitude and the correct equipment Be on time to class and with homework and assignments Listen and follow instructions carefully Behave and speak appropriately Be in correct uniform Complete all class work and homework Work cooperatively with others Check www.sciencewithstacey.weebly.com every day Always try your best

Every member of my class has the ability to achieve success, regardless of ability and English level.

Course content: Each unit is based around a key science concept, which follows the Complete Physics for IGCSE textbook. Below is a summary of all the topics covered, the first five of which will be covered this year: Unit
1

Name
Measurement and Experimental Physics Forces and Motion

Brief description
This introductory unit deals with the SI system of units, measuring length, time, mass, volume and density as well as revising key laboratory skills. Forces are investigated by their effects on motion, including speed and acceleration. Mass and weight, the turning effect, and centre of mass are also considered. Energy forms the basis of this unit and includes the key principles of energy transfer, conservation and transformation, resources of energy, work, power and pressure. This topic studies the molecular model of matter, thermal properties of matter, measuring temperature and thermal capacity, and the transfer of thermal energy. Its hard to imagine our lives without electricity! This unit looks in detail at electric charge, current, series and parallel circuits, resistance, electrical power and the dangers of electricity and associated safety precautions. This unit looks at the unique properties of waves using the electromagnetic spectrum, light (reflection and refraction) and sound as distinct examples. Magnetic fields and currents, electric motors, generators, coils and transformers are studied in this topic. In this unit the basic components of electronics are covered including transistors, logic gates and oscilloscopes. The final unit deals with the three types of radioactivity, radioactive decay, the nuclear atom, isotopes and their functions.

Duration
6 weeks

6 weeks

Energy and Pressure

6 weeks

Thermal Effects

8 weeks

Electricity

6 weeks

6 7 8 9

Waves, Sound and Rays Magnets and Currents Electrons and Electronics Atoms and Radioactivity

8 weeks 6 weeks 5 weeks 4 weeks

Assessment Each unit will be assessed at least three times throughout the course of the year. The form of assessment can be any of the following: a practical experiment, whereby a written laboratory report will be submitted a research assignment an interactive presentation a written end-of-topic test

All class work and homework grades will be recorded on www.engrade.com, where each student will be given a username and password so they can access their grades at any time. All work throughout the year is known as continuous assessment and will account for 20% of the final grade. The end-of-year examination is worth 80% of the final grade. More information regarding the external IGCSE examinations will come at a later date. Contact I encourage all students and their parents/caregivers to communicate openly with me. I have my own website, www.sciencewithstacey.weebly.com, where I post details regarding lessons, homework and upcoming assessments. Please use the contact form on the homepage if you would like to correspond with me. Alternatively, you may email me at stacey.dawson@mns-r.com. I very much look forward to working with you this year. Warm regards,

Mrs Stacey Dawson

High School Biology & Physics