GaVS Physical Science
February 2013 Newsletter
Course Update Information
This is a reminder that grades have been updated in Physical Science B. At your earliest convenience, please log in to the course and review the student's progress at www.gavirtualschool.org. Please contact me if you have questions.
If you have seen a drop in the grade or the grade is below a 75, the low grade is more than likely a result of assignments not being completed. If you see a zero in the gradebook this indicates an assignment that needs to be completed as soon as possible so that the late penalty will not effect the grade too negatively. Printing out the schedule and using it as a physical checklist can be a useful tool if your student is having a hard time with this. Another reason for low grades could be due to poor quiz and test grades. Encourage your student to attend or listen to the synchronous chat sessions each week. We review important concepts, answer multiple choice questions, and preview specific questions on assignments.
If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know. Thank you for supporting your student in this course.
If you have seen a drop in the grade or the grade is below a 75, the low grade is more than likely a result of assignments not being completed. If you see a zero in the gradebook this indicates an assignment that needs to be completed as soon as possible so that the late penalty will not effect the grade too negatively. Printing out the schedule and using it as a physical checklist can be a useful tool if your student is having a hard time with this. Another reason for low grades could be due to poor quiz and test grades. Encourage your student to attend or listen to the synchronous chat sessions each week. We review important concepts, answer multiple choice questions, and preview specific questions on assignments.
If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know. Thank you for supporting your student in this course.
Upcoming Concepts within the Course
In Physical Science this month, we are exploring the properties of the Periodic Table. Students should print out a copy of the Periodic Table that I have provided for them to use on their assignments, quizzes, and tests. This Periodic Table is similar to the one they will be using on the End of Course Test. If this has not been done or there are any questions, please contact me.
In addition to using the Periodic Table, we are looking at how atoms bond to form compounds. Students will learn the different types of bonds that occur as well as how to name and write chemical formulas for these compounds. This can be a very challenging module. I highly recommend students attend or listen to the upcoming chats in order to gain extra help and hints for being able to do this successfully. We will also be looking at specific questions from the assignments so it will be well worth their time. The chats are Tuesdays at 4:30 pm.
In addition to using the Periodic Table, we are looking at how atoms bond to form compounds. Students will learn the different types of bonds that occur as well as how to name and write chemical formulas for these compounds. This can be a very challenging module. I highly recommend students attend or listen to the upcoming chats in order to gain extra help and hints for being able to do this successfully. We will also be looking at specific questions from the assignments so it will be well worth their time. The chats are Tuesdays at 4:30 pm.
Upcoming Dates
Helpful News Announcements to Look for This Month
Winter Break Policy
Information on what to do if your face-to-face school has a winter break and GaVS does not.
Types of Bonds Graphic Organizer Extra Learning Opportunity
A chance to earn extra points on a quiz.
USAtestPREP Information
An opportunity to review for Bonding and Chemical Reactions Test as well as earn bonus points too.
Helpful Resources
There are many extra resources that I will be providing students to help them study for module tests and study for the End of Course Test in May. Each month, I will add more resources to this list.
- Understanding and Using the Periodic Table:
- Studying for Unit Tests as well as for Cumulative End of Course Test: www.usatestprep.com
- Naming Compounds: http://www.chem4kids.com/files/atom_naming.html
- Writing Chemical Formulas: http://www.kentchemistry.com/links/naming/formulawriting.htm
Contact Me
Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns as the semester progresses.
Email: kelly.walker@gavirtualschool.org
Website: Skype:gavs.kelly.walker
Phone: 706)389-0144