Standard: Physical Science

Students demonstrate an understanding of the composition of physical systems and the concepts and principles that describe and predict physical interactions and events in the natural world. This includes demonstrating an understanding of the structure and properties of matter, the properties of materials and objects, chemical reactions and the conservation of matter. In addition, it includes understanding the nature, transfer and conservation of energy; motion and the forces affecting motion; and the nature of waves and interactions of matter and energy. Students demonstrate an understanding of the historical perspectives, scientific approaches and emerging scientific issues associated with the physical sciences.

• Benchmark A: [11-12]
  Explain how variations in the arrangement and motion of atoms and molecules form the basis of a variety of biological, chemical and physical phenomena.
  

• Benchmark B: [11-12]
  Recognize that some atomic nuclei are unstable and will spontaneously break down.
  

• Benchmark C: [11-12]
  Describe how atoms and molecules can gain or lose energy only in discrete amounts.
  

• Benchmark D: [11-12]
  Apply principals of forces and motion to mathematically analyze, describe and predict the net effects on objects or systems.
  

• Benchmark E: [11-12]
  Summarize the historical development of scientific theories and ideas within the study of physical sciences.