Welcome back to school everyone. I hope that you had a fantastic Christmas Holiday and are rested and ready to return to your studies. All the best to everyone in the new year!
AP Physics 12 - This week we will finish learning about Simple Harmonic Motion SHM and we will learn about Bouyant Force, which is the upward force exerted by fluids. We will have a SHM test on January 14.
Physics 12 - We will go over the Work, Energy, Power tests from December 17. This week we will get started with chapter 7 Impulse and Momentum.
Physics 11 - We will spend one lesson reviewing forces and force problems (Dynamics). Then we begin our next topic in Chapter 9 Impulse and Momentum.
Science 10 - Reminder of the chapter 4.2 quiz on January 6 (names and formulas for chemical compounds). This week we will do a few chemistry labs and next week we will be starting chapter 4.3 Balancing Equations.
Math 8 - Reminder of the chapter 5 test on January 7. This week we will get started with chapter 6 Fractions.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
December 13, 2010 (week 15)
AP Physics 12 - Reminder of the chapter 6 Quiz on December 16. This week we will continue to study Simple Harmonic Motion of a Pendulum.
Physics 12 - This week we will finish off chapter 6 Work, Energy and Power. Reminder of the chapter 6 Quiz on December 17.
Physics 11 - This week we will go over the activity on Tension and we will spend two lessons learning about gravitational force, specifically Isaac Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation.
Science 10 - This week we will finish chapter 4.2 Naming chemical compounds and writing formulas for compounds. Students should be completing the workbook practice problems.
Math 8 - This week we will complete chapter 5 Surface Area. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too. We will have the chapter 5 test on January 7, 2011.
Physics 12 - This week we will finish off chapter 6 Work, Energy and Power. Reminder of the chapter 6 Quiz on December 17.
Physics 11 - This week we will go over the activity on Tension and we will spend two lessons learning about gravitational force, specifically Isaac Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation.
Science 10 - This week we will finish chapter 4.2 Naming chemical compounds and writing formulas for compounds. Students should be completing the workbook practice problems.
Math 8 - This week we will complete chapter 5 Surface Area. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too. We will have the chapter 5 test on January 7, 2011.
Friday, December 3, 2010
December 6, 2010 (week 14)
AP Physics 12 - We have started chapter 6 Work, Energy and Power. Students should be looking over the example problems in the text and completing the end of chapter review problems.
Physics 12 - Same as above
Physics 11 - This week we will do a few lab activities related to springs (Hooke's Law) and tension. This material is not covered in the textbook so it is important that students pay particular attention to notes and instructions provided by the teacher.
Science 10 - This week we will study chapter 4.2 Naming chemical compounds and writing formulas for compounds. Students should be completing the workbook practice problems.
Math 8 - We have started chapter 5 Surface Area. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too.
Physics 12 - Same as above
Physics 11 - This week we will do a few lab activities related to springs (Hooke's Law) and tension. This material is not covered in the textbook so it is important that students pay particular attention to notes and instructions provided by the teacher.
Science 10 - This week we will study chapter 4.2 Naming chemical compounds and writing formulas for compounds. Students should be completing the workbook practice problems.
Math 8 - We have started chapter 5 Surface Area. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too.
Friday, November 26, 2010
November 29, 2010 (week 13)
AP Physics 12 - Students should be completing the chapter 5 problems in preparation for the chapter 5 test on November 29. We will get started with chapter 6 Work, Energy and Power.
Physics 12 - Students should be completing the chapter 5 problems in preparation for the chapter 5 test on November 29. This week we will get started with chapter 6 Work, Energy and Power.
Physics 11 - Students should be completing their textbook problems and sample tests in preparation for the chapter 5 test on December 2.
Science 10 - This week we will get started with Chemistry Chapter 4 - Atomic Structure.
Math 8 - Reminder of the chapter 4 test on November 29. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too. This week we will start chapter 5 on surface area and volume.
Physics 12 - Students should be completing the chapter 5 problems in preparation for the chapter 5 test on November 29. This week we will get started with chapter 6 Work, Energy and Power.
Physics 11 - Students should be completing their textbook problems and sample tests in preparation for the chapter 5 test on December 2.
Science 10 - This week we will get started with Chemistry Chapter 4 - Atomic Structure.
Math 8 - Reminder of the chapter 4 test on November 29. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too. This week we will start chapter 5 on surface area and volume.
Friday, November 19, 2010
November 23, 2010 (week 12)
AP Physics 12 - Students should be completing the chapter 5 problems in preparation for the chapter 5 test on November 29.
Physics 12 - Students should be completing the chapter 5 problems in preparation for the chapter 5 test on November 29.
Physics 11 - We will do a few more labs related to Newton's 2nd law of motion. Students should be completing their textbook problems in preparation for the chapter 5 test on December 2.
Science 10 - Students must complete workbook chapter 3 in preparation for the chapter 3 test on November 26. Be sure to check out the Flexbook created by Arianne and Charlene to help everyone study for the chapter 3 test. The flexbook is at
http://www.ck12.org/flexr/liveview/1da3c8b7c97e7ffb065c735de6b7c92c/
This week we will get started with Chemistry Chapter 4 - Atomic Structure.
Math 8 - This week we will review chapter 4 in preparation for the chapter 4 test on November 29. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too.
Physics 12 - Students should be completing the chapter 5 problems in preparation for the chapter 5 test on November 29.
Physics 11 - We will do a few more labs related to Newton's 2nd law of motion. Students should be completing their textbook problems in preparation for the chapter 5 test on December 2.
Science 10 - Students must complete workbook chapter 3 in preparation for the chapter 3 test on November 26. Be sure to check out the Flexbook created by Arianne and Charlene to help everyone study for the chapter 3 test. The flexbook is at
http://www.ck12.org/flexr/liveview/1da3c8b7c97e7ffb065c735de6b7c92c/
This week we will get started with Chemistry Chapter 4 - Atomic Structure.
Math 8 - This week we will review chapter 4 in preparation for the chapter 4 test on November 29. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too.
Friday, November 12, 2010
November 15, 2010 (week 11)
AP Physics 12 - Reminder of the quantum physics test on November 15. We have started chapter 5 on centripetal force. Students should be reading chapter 5 and working on the end of chapter problems.
Physics 12 - We have started chapter 5 Centripetal Force and Acceleration. Students should be working on the examples and review problems in their textbook.
Physics 11 - This week we will study Newton's 2nd Law of motion and how to solve problems involving friction. We will do a few labs related to Newton's 2nd Law of Motion. Students should be looking over the examples and completing the practice problems in their text.
Science 10 - We are finishing Chapter 3 Ecosystems Change Continually Over Time. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook or workbook in preparation for the chapter 3 test on November 24.
If students chose to do a project in relation to chapter 3 their projects are due for presentation on November 19.
Math 8 - This week we will learn about percentages, fractions and decimals in chapter 4. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
November 8, 2010 (week 10)
AP Physics 12 - We will conclude our studies of Quantum Physics this week. Reminder of the quantum physics test on November 15. We will also get started with chapter 5 Centripetal Force and Acceleration.
Physics 12 - We have started chapter 5 Centripetal Force and Acceleration. Students should be working on the examples and review problems in their textbook.
Physics 11 - This week we will get started with chapter 5 Dynamics: the study of forces. Students should be looking over the examples and completing the practice problems in their text.
Science 10 - We have started Chapter 3 Ecosystems Change Continually Over Time. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook or workbook. Also, I hope to involve students in a collaborative project using Google Docs or Wikispaces to compile a set of notes for chapter 3. The notes would be designed to support our ESL students and also students with learning disabilities. We need a chief editor and a few contributing writers to make this a success.
Math 8 - Reminder of the chapter 3 test on November 9. This week we will get started with chapter 4 Percents. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too.
Physics 12 - We have started chapter 5 Centripetal Force and Acceleration. Students should be working on the examples and review problems in their textbook.
Physics 11 - This week we will get started with chapter 5 Dynamics: the study of forces. Students should be looking over the examples and completing the practice problems in their text.
Science 10 - We have started Chapter 3 Ecosystems Change Continually Over Time. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook or workbook. Also, I hope to involve students in a collaborative project using Google Docs or Wikispaces to compile a set of notes for chapter 3. The notes would be designed to support our ESL students and also students with learning disabilities. We need a chief editor and a few contributing writers to make this a success.
Math 8 - Reminder of the chapter 3 test on November 9. This week we will get started with chapter 4 Percents. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems too.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
November 1, 2010 (week 9)
AP Physics 12 - Students should be reading their text and completing the odd numbered problems in their textbook in preparation for the chapter 4 test on November 2. We will also learn about the DeBroglie wavelength in quantum physics.
Physics 12 - Students should be reading their text and completing the odd numbered problems in their textbook in preparation for the chapter 4 test on November 2. This week we begin chapter 5 Centripetal Force and Acceleration.
Physics 11 - This week we will get started with chapter 5 Dynamics, the study of forces. Reminder of the chapter 4 test re-write at the end of this week.
Science 10 - This week we finish chapter 2.3 Bioaccumulation. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook or workbook. Reminder of the chapter 2 test on November 4. We will also get started with chapter 3 Ecosystems Change Continually Over Time. I hope to involve students in a collaborative project using Google Docs to compile our research. We need a chief editor, and lots of contributing writers to make this a success.
Math 8 - This week we will continue to use the Pythagorean Relationship to solve problems involving right triangles. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems.
Physics 12 - Students should be reading their text and completing the odd numbered problems in their textbook in preparation for the chapter 4 test on November 2. This week we begin chapter 5 Centripetal Force and Acceleration.
Physics 11 - This week we will get started with chapter 5 Dynamics, the study of forces. Reminder of the chapter 4 test re-write at the end of this week.
Science 10 - This week we finish chapter 2.3 Bioaccumulation. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook or workbook. Reminder of the chapter 2 test on November 4. We will also get started with chapter 3 Ecosystems Change Continually Over Time. I hope to involve students in a collaborative project using Google Docs to compile our research. We need a chief editor, and lots of contributing writers to make this a success.
Math 8 - This week we will continue to use the Pythagorean Relationship to solve problems involving right triangles. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
October 25, 2010 (week 8)
AP Physics 12 - This week we will complete chapter 4 Dynamics. Students should be reading their text and completing the odd numbered problems in their textbook in preparation for the chapter 4 test on November 2. We will also study some more Quantum Physics, specifically DeBroglie wavelength.
Physics 12 - This week we will complete chapter 4 Dynamics. Students should be reading their text and completing the odd numbered problems in their textbook in preparation for the chapter 4 test on November 2.
Physics 11 - Reminder of the chapter 4 test on October 25. This week we will get started with chapter 5 Dynamics, the study of forces.
Science 10 - This week we finish chapter 2.3 Bioaccumulation. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook or workbook. Reminder of the chapter 2 test on November 2.
Math 8 - This week we will complete chapters 3.2 and 3.3 on Pythagorean Theorem. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems.
Physics 12 - This week we will complete chapter 4 Dynamics. Students should be reading their text and completing the odd numbered problems in their textbook in preparation for the chapter 4 test on November 2.
Physics 11 - Reminder of the chapter 4 test on October 25. This week we will get started with chapter 5 Dynamics, the study of forces.
Science 10 - This week we finish chapter 2.3 Bioaccumulation. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook or workbook. Reminder of the chapter 2 test on November 2.
Math 8 - This week we will complete chapters 3.2 and 3.3 on Pythagorean Theorem. Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
October 18, 2010 (week 7)
AP Physics 12 - This week we will work on chapter 4 Universal Gravitation and Gravitational Potential Energy. Students should be reading their text and completing the odd numbered problems in their textbook for practice. We will also study some Quantum Physics, specifically the Photoelectric Effect.
Physics 12 - This week we will study Isaac Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation in chapter 4.7. Students should be looking over the example problems and completing the odd numbered review problems in their textbook for practice. Reminder that students must submit a minimum of 50 problems in preparation for the chapter 2/3 test on October 25
Physics 11 - We have finished chapter 4 Accelerated Motion and will spend one more class reviewing the various kinematics graphs. Students should be completing all of the practice problems in chapter four in preparation for the chapter 4 test on October 25.
Science 10 - This week we finish chapter 2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook. Students who purchased workbooks can simply complete all of the questions in their workbook.
Math 8 - This week we begin chapter 3 on Squares, Square Roots, and Pythagorean Relation.
Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems. Reminder of the chapter 2 was rather long and so students will get more time to finish the chapter 2 test on October 19.
Physics 12 - This week we will study Isaac Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation in chapter 4.7. Students should be looking over the example problems and completing the odd numbered review problems in their textbook for practice. Reminder that students must submit a minimum of 50 problems in preparation for the chapter 2/3 test on October 25
Physics 11 - We have finished chapter 4 Accelerated Motion and will spend one more class reviewing the various kinematics graphs. Students should be completing all of the practice problems in chapter four in preparation for the chapter 4 test on October 25.
Science 10 - This week we finish chapter 2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook. Students who purchased workbooks can simply complete all of the questions in their workbook.
Math 8 - This week we begin chapter 3 on Squares, Square Roots, and Pythagorean Relation.
Students should complete the odd numbered problems for their homework and they must show their workings as per the example problems. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems. Reminder of the chapter 2 was rather long and so students will get more time to finish the chapter 2 test on October 19.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Tuesday, October 12, 2010 (week 6)
AP Physics 12 - This week we will work on chapter 4 dynamics on an inclined plane and pulley systems. We will also learn about Isaac Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation. Students should be reading their text and completing the odd numbered problems in their textbook for practice.
Physics 12 - We have started chapter 4 Dynamics, the study of forces. Students should be looking over the example problems and completing the odd numbered review problems in their textbook for practice. We will study Isaac Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation this week.
Physics 11 - We are finishing chapter 4 Accelerated Motion and students should be completing all of the practice problems in chapter four in preparation for the chapter 4 test on October 25.
Science 10 - This week we will study chapter 2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook. Students who purchased workbooks should have them soon.
Math 8 - We are finished with Chapter 2 and students should have completed the odd numbered problems in each section for their homework. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems. Reminder of the chapter 2 test on October 13.
Physics 12 - We have started chapter 4 Dynamics, the study of forces. Students should be looking over the example problems and completing the odd numbered review problems in their textbook for practice. We will study Isaac Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation this week.
Physics 11 - We are finishing chapter 4 Accelerated Motion and students should be completing all of the practice problems in chapter four in preparation for the chapter 4 test on October 25.
Science 10 - This week we will study chapter 2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook. Students who purchased workbooks should have them soon.
Math 8 - We are finished with Chapter 2 and students should have completed the odd numbered problems in each section for their homework. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems. Reminder of the chapter 2 test on October 13.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
October 4, 2010 (week 5)
AP Physics 12 - We have started to study Quantum Physics, Bohr's Model of the Atom. We've also started chapter 4 Dynamics. Students should be reading their text and completing the odd numbered problems in their textbook for practice.
Physics 12 - We have started chapter 4 Dynamics, the study of forces. Students should be looking over the example problems and completing the odd numbered review problems in their textbook for practice.
Physics 11 - We are starting chapter 4 Accelerated Motion which has more graphs and many more equations of motion. Students should be completing all of the practice problems in chapter four.
Science 10 - We have started chapter 2 Energy Flow in Ecosystems. This week we will study food pyramids and also nutrient cycles. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook. Students who purchased workbooks should have them soon.
Math 8 - We are currently studying chapter 2 Rates, Ratios and Proportions. Students must complete the odd numbered problems in each section for their homework. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems. Answers are provided at the back of their textbook.
Physics 12 - We have started chapter 4 Dynamics, the study of forces. Students should be looking over the example problems and completing the odd numbered review problems in their textbook for practice.
Physics 11 - We are starting chapter 4 Accelerated Motion which has more graphs and many more equations of motion. Students should be completing all of the practice problems in chapter four.
Science 10 - We have started chapter 2 Energy Flow in Ecosystems. This week we will study food pyramids and also nutrient cycles. Students should be reading their text and making their own study notes and/or completing the review questions in their textbook. Students who purchased workbooks should have them soon.
Math 8 - We are currently studying chapter 2 Rates, Ratios and Proportions. Students must complete the odd numbered problems in each section for their homework. Those who need extra practice should also do the even numbered problems. Answers are provided at the back of their textbook.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
September 27, 2010 (week 4)
AP Physics 12 - We have completed chapter 3 Projectile Motion. This week we will get started with chapter 4 Dynamics (the study of forces) and we will also tackle our first advanced topic Quantum physics.
Physics 12 - This week we will study chapter 4 Dynamics (the study of forces). Sudents should be working on the sample testbank worksheets in addition to the odd numbered problems in their textbook.
Physics 11 - We are starting chapter 4 Accelerated Motion. Students should be completing all of the practice problems in their textbook in addition to the sample testbank worksheets in preparation for the chapter 3 test on September 30.
Science 10 -We are beginning chapter 2 Energy Flow in Ecosystems. Students should be preparing their own study notes and/or completing the Reading Checks in preparation for the chapter one test on October 1.
Math 8 - We are starting chapter 2 Ratios, Rates and Proportions. Students should be completing all of the odd numbered problems in chapter one in preparation for the chapter 1 test on September 28.
Physics 12 - This week we will study chapter 4 Dynamics (the study of forces). Sudents should be working on the sample testbank worksheets in addition to the odd numbered problems in their textbook.
Physics 11 - We are starting chapter 4 Accelerated Motion. Students should be completing all of the practice problems in their textbook in addition to the sample testbank worksheets in preparation for the chapter 3 test on September 30.
Science 10 -We are beginning chapter 2 Energy Flow in Ecosystems. Students should be preparing their own study notes and/or completing the Reading Checks in preparation for the chapter one test on October 1.
Math 8 - We are starting chapter 2 Ratios, Rates and Proportions. Students should be completing all of the odd numbered problems in chapter one in preparation for the chapter 1 test on September 28.
Friday, September 17, 2010
September 20, 2010 (week 3)
AP Physics 12 - This week we'll continue to study kinematics in 2D (projectile motion). Students should complete the testbank sample problems and odd numbered problems at the end of chapter 2 in preparation for the test in a few weeks. Plenty more practice questions and exams available on the school homework site under Mr. Fuerderer's section.
Physics 12 - same as above
Physics 11 - This week we will focus on how to depict motion on graphs. This correlates to the material in chapter 3.2. Students should complete all of the practice problems in chapter 3. Answers are provided at the back of text, and solutions are available online on the school homework site under Mr. Fuerderer's section. Reminder of the chapter 3 test on September 30.
Science 10 - We are studying chapter 1.2 Ecosystems. Students will learn about interactions between living things and specifically about symbiotic relationships. Students should be making their own study notes and/or completing the Reading Checks in preparation for the chapter 1 test on October 1.
Math 8 - This week we will finish with chapter one. Students should complete the odd numbered problems in each section of chapter one and the review problems at end of chapter 1 in preparation for the Chapter One test on September 28.
Physics 12 - same as above
Physics 11 - This week we will focus on how to depict motion on graphs. This correlates to the material in chapter 3.2. Students should complete all of the practice problems in chapter 3. Answers are provided at the back of text, and solutions are available online on the school homework site under Mr. Fuerderer's section. Reminder of the chapter 3 test on September 30.
Science 10 - We are studying chapter 1.2 Ecosystems. Students will learn about interactions between living things and specifically about symbiotic relationships. Students should be making their own study notes and/or completing the Reading Checks in preparation for the chapter 1 test on October 1.
Math 8 - This week we will finish with chapter one. Students should complete the odd numbered problems in each section of chapter one and the review problems at end of chapter 1 in preparation for the Chapter One test on September 28.
Friday, September 10, 2010
September 13, 2010 (week 2)
Florida Fieldtrip 2011 - Grade 9, 10, and 11 students are invited to participate in the 2011 Florida Fieldtrip which will take place May 11-18, 2011. We will visit various theme parks in the Orlando Florida area and participate in backstage tours and educational programs that will demonstrate science in action and science related careers. Please see me in room A213 right away to pick up an Application Form. There will be an Informational meeting on Wednesday, September 15 at lunch time in room A213.
AP Physics 12 - This week we'll review kinematics graphs and wrap up chapter 2. Students should complete all of the odd numbered Review Problems on pages 49-52. We will also get started with projectile motion (kinematics in 2 dimensions).
Physics 12 - same as above
Physics 11 - This week we will focus on graphical representations of motion. Students should be working on all of the practice problems in chapter 3.
Science 10 - We have started with chapter 1.1 Biomes. This week we will study climatographs that depict the typical temperatures and precipitation of each terrestrial biome. Reminder to bring $8 to purchase your own workbook (highly recommended learning resource).
Math 8 - We have started with chapter 1 Graphs, and this week we will focus on how data can be misrepresented on graphs. Students are expected to attempt (and hopefully complete) all of the practice questions in chapter 1.
AP Physics 12 - This week we'll review kinematics graphs and wrap up chapter 2. Students should complete all of the odd numbered Review Problems on pages 49-52. We will also get started with projectile motion (kinematics in 2 dimensions).
Physics 12 - same as above
Physics 11 - This week we will focus on graphical representations of motion. Students should be working on all of the practice problems in chapter 3.
Science 10 - We have started with chapter 1.1 Biomes. This week we will study climatographs that depict the typical temperatures and precipitation of each terrestrial biome. Reminder to bring $8 to purchase your own workbook (highly recommended learning resource).
Math 8 - We have started with chapter 1 Graphs, and this week we will focus on how data can be misrepresented on graphs. Students are expected to attempt (and hopefully complete) all of the practice questions in chapter 1.
Friday, June 25, 2010
September 7, 2010 (week 1)
Welcome back to school everyone. This week we'll establish some classroom routines and get started with our studies. Please remember to check this Blog for weekly updates and course information.
Florida Fieldtrip 2011 - Science 9 and Science 10 students are invited to participate in the 2011 Florida Fieldtrip which will take place May 11-18, 2011. We will visit various theme parks in the Orlando Florida area and participate in backstage tours and educational programs that will demonstrate science in action and science related careers. Please see me in room A213 right away to pick up an Application Form. There will be an Informational meeting on Wednesday, September 15 at lunch time in room A213.
AP Physics 12 - We begin with a quick review of chapters 2 kinematics equations and graphs, and then we will turn our attention to chapter 3 kinematics in 2D (projectile motion). Students should bring a usb memory stick to class so that I can share with them sample Exam questions.
Physics 12 - same as AP Physics 12 above
Physics 11 - We will do a quick review of the material you learned in Science 10 Motion Unit and then we'll begin chapter 3 Kinematics (the study of motion). We will spend a lot of time on graphs and learning to depict motion graphically. Students are expected to complete all of the practice problems in the textbook.
Science 10 - We are starting with chapter 1 Biomes and Ecosystems. Students are encouraged to purchase the workbook which has proven to be an excellent learning resource, it contains plenty of practice exercises and sample test questions. Students will also have an opportunity to work on their first project on Ecology. Please read the Orlando Fieldtrip invitation above.
Math 8 - We begin with Chapter 1 Representing Data Graphically. Students are expected to attempt (and hopefully complete) all of the practice questions in their textbook.
Florida Fieldtrip 2011 - Science 9 and Science 10 students are invited to participate in the 2011 Florida Fieldtrip which will take place May 11-18, 2011. We will visit various theme parks in the Orlando Florida area and participate in backstage tours and educational programs that will demonstrate science in action and science related careers. Please see me in room A213 right away to pick up an Application Form. There will be an Informational meeting on Wednesday, September 15 at lunch time in room A213.
AP Physics 12 - We begin with a quick review of chapters 2 kinematics equations and graphs, and then we will turn our attention to chapter 3 kinematics in 2D (projectile motion). Students should bring a usb memory stick to class so that I can share with them sample Exam questions.
Physics 12 - same as AP Physics 12 above
Physics 11 - We will do a quick review of the material you learned in Science 10 Motion Unit and then we'll begin chapter 3 Kinematics (the study of motion). We will spend a lot of time on graphs and learning to depict motion graphically. Students are expected to complete all of the practice problems in the textbook.
Science 10 - We are starting with chapter 1 Biomes and Ecosystems. Students are encouraged to purchase the workbook which has proven to be an excellent learning resource, it contains plenty of practice exercises and sample test questions. Students will also have an opportunity to work on their first project on Ecology. Please read the Orlando Fieldtrip invitation above.
Math 8 - We begin with Chapter 1 Representing Data Graphically. Students are expected to attempt (and hopefully complete) all of the practice questions in their textbook.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
June 14, 2010 (week 38)
Important note to all my students - I am away this week grading Advanced Placement Physics exams in the United States and I will be returning to Burnaby South on June 21. You can email stephen.fuerderer@sd41.bc.ca if you need to reach me.
AP Physics 12 - studying for provincial exams.
Physics 11 - Watching some videos on nuclear energy.
Science 10 - Watching some videos on ecosystems and space.
Math 9 - Watching some videos related to the science 9 curriculum (space).
AP Physics 12 - studying for provincial exams.
Physics 11 - Watching some videos on nuclear energy.
Science 10 - Watching some videos on ecosystems and space.
Math 9 - Watching some videos related to the science 9 curriculum (space).
Friday, June 4, 2010
June 7, 2010 (week 37)
Important note to all my students - I will be away the week of June 14-18 grading AP Physics Exams in the United States. Consequently, if you have any outstanding tests/marks you must see me early this week as I'll be submitting final marks to the office.
AP Physics 12 - Final Exam on June 7, in class. The rest of the week we will be reviewing for the provincial exam.
Physics 11 - Final exam on June 7, in class. Remember to bring in your textbook as I'll be collecting them before the exam. The rest of the week we'll watch some interesting videos related to nuclear energy.
Science 10 - Unit 4 Test on June 7 covering chapters 1-12. Reminder that it is an "open-notes" test so be sure to put together a nice set of notes in point form, with charts/diagrams/etc. You will also be able to use your textbook for a portion of the test so bring it too. I'll be collecting textbooks after the exam. The rest of the week we will be studying for the provincial exam.
Math 9 - Final Exam on June 7. Remember to bring your textbook as I'll be collecting them before the exam.
AP Physics 12 - Final Exam on June 7, in class. The rest of the week we will be reviewing for the provincial exam.
Physics 11 - Final exam on June 7, in class. Remember to bring in your textbook as I'll be collecting them before the exam. The rest of the week we'll watch some interesting videos related to nuclear energy.
Science 10 - Unit 4 Test on June 7 covering chapters 1-12. Reminder that it is an "open-notes" test so be sure to put together a nice set of notes in point form, with charts/diagrams/etc. You will also be able to use your textbook for a portion of the test so bring it too. I'll be collecting textbooks after the exam. The rest of the week we will be studying for the provincial exam.
Math 9 - Final Exam on June 7. Remember to bring your textbook as I'll be collecting them before the exam.
Friday, May 28, 2010
May 31, 2010 (week 36)
AP Physics 12 - Reminder that projects are due June 1st and we'll have presentations this week and next. Students may opt to write an in-class Final Exam on June 7 in place of the physics project.
Physics 11 - This week students should complete the Nuclear Physics Assignment which is due June 7 (Early Bird Bonus if submitted by June 4). We will watch a few videos related to nuclear technology. Reminder of the in-class Final Exam on June 7.
Science 10 - Reminder that chapter 11 workbook is due June 1. This week we will study chapter 12 Plate Tectonics. Students must complete workbook chapter 12 by June 7 (Early Bird Bonus deadline is June 4). Students will write the Unit 4 Test on June 7 which includes chapters 10, 11, and 12. The test will be "open-notes" whereby students may refer to the hand-written notes that they have prepared from each chapter.
Math 9 - This week we will complete chapter on graphs and probabilities. Students have been given several review worksheets to help them study for the in-class Final Exam on June8..
Physics 11 - This week students should complete the Nuclear Physics Assignment which is due June 7 (Early Bird Bonus if submitted by June 4). We will watch a few videos related to nuclear technology. Reminder of the in-class Final Exam on June 7.
Science 10 - Reminder that chapter 11 workbook is due June 1. This week we will study chapter 12 Plate Tectonics. Students must complete workbook chapter 12 by June 7 (Early Bird Bonus deadline is June 4). Students will write the Unit 4 Test on June 7 which includes chapters 10, 11, and 12. The test will be "open-notes" whereby students may refer to the hand-written notes that they have prepared from each chapter.
Math 9 - This week we will complete chapter on graphs and probabilities. Students have been given several review worksheets to help them study for the in-class Final Exam on June8..
Friday, May 21, 2010
Tuesday May 25, 2010 (week 35)
AP Physics 12 - Students must complete a minimum of 50 problems from chapters 20/21 in preparation for the Electromagnetism test on May 28.
Physics 11 - Students must complete a minimum of 25 practice problems in preparation for the chapter 18 Optics test on May 26. We have started our final unit on Nuclear energy. Students must complete their Nuclear Assignment by June 7 (Early Bird Bonus deadline is June 4).
Science 10 - Reminder of the Science 10 Exam on May 28 covering chapters 1 - 9. This week the students will read chapter 11 on Climate Change and how it is affected by natural processes and human activities. Workbook chapter 11 deadline is June 1.
Math 9 - This week we will study chapter 9.1 - 9.3 on Graphing Skills and we are all finished with the course. Students have been given review worksheets to help them study for the final exam on June 8.
Physics 11 - Students must complete a minimum of 25 practice problems in preparation for the chapter 18 Optics test on May 26. We have started our final unit on Nuclear energy. Students must complete their Nuclear Assignment by June 7 (Early Bird Bonus deadline is June 4).
Science 10 - Reminder of the Science 10 Exam on May 28 covering chapters 1 - 9. This week the students will read chapter 11 on Climate Change and how it is affected by natural processes and human activities. Workbook chapter 11 deadline is June 1.
Math 9 - This week we will study chapter 9.1 - 9.3 on Graphing Skills and we are all finished with the course. Students have been given review worksheets to help them study for the final exam on June 8.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
May 17, 2010 (week 34)
AP Physics 12 - We resume classes this week. Reminder of the chapter 20 Circuits test on May 21 and the chapter 21/22 test on Electromagnetism will be held on May 27. Projects are due June 1 and must be ready for presentation on that date.
Physics 11 - Reminder that missed tests from term 3 will be written on May 17. We are just finishing chapter 18 Optics. Students should complete all of the practice problems in preparation for the chapter 18 Optics test on May 26.
Science 10 - We have started the final Unit in Science 10 which includes chapters 10, 11, and 12. Students should be reading each chapter and making notes that they can use during the unit test in a few weeks. They also need to complete their workbook in its entirety by June 4. Reminder of the Science 10 Exam on May 26 covering chapters 1 through 9.
Math 9 - We have completed chapter 5 Polynomials. Students should be reviewing and practicing for the chapter 5 test on May 20.
Physics 11 - Reminder that missed tests from term 3 will be written on May 17. We are just finishing chapter 18 Optics. Students should complete all of the practice problems in preparation for the chapter 18 Optics test on May 26.
Science 10 - We have started the final Unit in Science 10 which includes chapters 10, 11, and 12. Students should be reading each chapter and making notes that they can use during the unit test in a few weeks. They also need to complete their workbook in its entirety by June 4. Reminder of the Science 10 Exam on May 26 covering chapters 1 through 9.
Math 9 - We have completed chapter 5 Polynomials. Students should be reviewing and practicing for the chapter 5 test on May 20.
Friday, May 7, 2010
May 10, 2010 (week 33)
AP Physics 12 - No class this week as student are writing their AP exams in various subject. Class resumes on June 17. Reminder of the ch 20 Circuits test on May 21. Also, projects are due June 1 and project presentations begin on June 1.
Physics 11 - This week we will complete chapter 18 Optics. Students should complete all the practice problems in preparation for the chapter 18 test on May 26. Reminder of the Playland fieldtrip on Tuesday, May 11. Plan to arrive by 9:30 AM and dress appropriately for the weather because we are going rain or shine.
Science 10 - Students should be reading and completing their workbook in preparation for the chapter 9 test on May 17.
Math 9 - This week we continue to study chapter 5.10 and 5.11. Students should review the practice problems from each section in preparation for the chapter 5 test on May 20.
Physics 11 - This week we will complete chapter 18 Optics. Students should complete all the practice problems in preparation for the chapter 18 test on May 26. Reminder of the Playland fieldtrip on Tuesday, May 11. Plan to arrive by 9:30 AM and dress appropriately for the weather because we are going rain or shine.
Science 10 - Students should be reading and completing their workbook in preparation for the chapter 9 test on May 17.
Math 9 - This week we continue to study chapter 5.10 and 5.11. Students should review the practice problems from each section in preparation for the chapter 5 test on May 20.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
May 3, 2010 (week 32)
Science Final Exams Schedule
Advanced Placement Exams in the MPR, May 3-16
Science 9/10 Entrance Exam (Astronomy & Reproduction Units), May 6 in the afternoon.
Science 10 Exam (chapters 1- 9), May 25-28 in classes
Physics 11, Physics 12, Chemistry 12, Biology 12, June 7-11 in classes
Supplemental final exams for Sc 8 & 9, June 14 at 9AM in room A214
Biology 11 June 17 PM Gym
Chemistry 11 June 18 AM Gym
Math/Calculus ?? June 18 PM Gym
Science 10 Provincial Exam, June 25 AM, Gym
AP Physics 12 - Class is cancelled until May 17 due to exams being written during the first two weeks of May. Good luck to all of you on your exams. You've worked hard and I am confident that you will perform very well!
Physics 11 - Students should complete a minimum of 25 practice problems in preparation for the chapter 17 test on May 3. This week we begin chapter 18 Optics, which is the study of light, lenses and mirrors.
Science 10 - Reminder that students should complete all of workbook chapter 8 in preparation for the chapter 8 test on May 4. We have started chapter 9 Accelerated Motion and students should be completing the activities and their textbook and workbook.
Math 9 - Reminder of the chapter 5.1-5.4 quiz on May 4. We are currently working on chapter 5 Polynomials. Students should complete the practice problems in each section of chapter 5.
Advanced Placement Exams in the MPR, May 3-16
Science 9/10 Entrance Exam (Astronomy & Reproduction Units), May 6 in the afternoon.
Science 10 Exam (chapters 1- 9), May 25-28 in classes
Physics 11, Physics 12, Chemistry 12, Biology 12, June 7-11 in classes
Supplemental final exams for Sc 8 & 9, June 14 at 9AM in room A214
Biology 11 June 17 PM Gym
Chemistry 11 June 18 AM Gym
Math/Calculus ?? June 18 PM Gym
Science 10 Provincial Exam, June 25 AM, Gym
AP Physics 12 - Class is cancelled until May 17 due to exams being written during the first two weeks of May. Good luck to all of you on your exams. You've worked hard and I am confident that you will perform very well!
Physics 11 - Students should complete a minimum of 25 practice problems in preparation for the chapter 17 test on May 3. This week we begin chapter 18 Optics, which is the study of light, lenses and mirrors.
Science 10 - Reminder that students should complete all of workbook chapter 8 in preparation for the chapter 8 test on May 4. We have started chapter 9 Accelerated Motion and students should be completing the activities and their textbook and workbook.
Math 9 - Reminder of the chapter 5.1-5.4 quiz on May 4. We are currently working on chapter 5 Polynomials. Students should complete the practice problems in each section of chapter 5.
Friday, April 23, 2010
April 26, 2010 (week 31)
AP Physics 12 - We have started chapter 15 Thermodynamics. This week we will focus on thermodynamic processes and how they can be depicted on PV graphs.
Physics 11 - This week we will complete chapter 17 on Reflection and Refraction. Students must complete a minimum of 25 problems in preparation for the chapter 17 test on May 3.
Science 10 - Reminder of the Quiz on chapter 8.1 on April 26. This week we will complete chapter 8.2 on motion graphs and velocity calculations. Students should complete all of workbook chapter 8 in preparation for the chapter 8 test on May 3.
Math 9 - We have started Chapter 5 on Special Products and Factoring. Students should complete the practice problems in each section.
Physics 11 - This week we will complete chapter 17 on Reflection and Refraction. Students must complete a minimum of 25 problems in preparation for the chapter 17 test on May 3.
Science 10 - Reminder of the Quiz on chapter 8.1 on April 26. This week we will complete chapter 8.2 on motion graphs and velocity calculations. Students should complete all of workbook chapter 8 in preparation for the chapter 8 test on May 3.
Math 9 - We have started Chapter 5 on Special Products and Factoring. Students should complete the practice problems in each section.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
April 19, 2010 (week 30)
AP Physics 12 - This week we will begin our study of thermodynamics, which is the study of heat energy and transfer.
Physics 11 - Reminder of the chapter 14 test on April 20. We are starting chapter 17 on Reflection and Refraction of light waves.
Science 10 - We have begun chapter 8 Motion. Students should complete the workbook chapter 8 in preparation for the motion test in a few weeks.
Math 9 - This week we will complete chapter 4. Students should complete all of the practice problems in chapter 4 in preparation for the chapter 4 test on April 23.
Physics 11 - Reminder of the chapter 14 test on April 20. We are starting chapter 17 on Reflection and Refraction of light waves.
Science 10 - We have begun chapter 8 Motion. Students should complete the workbook chapter 8 in preparation for the motion test in a few weeks.
Math 9 - This week we will complete chapter 4. Students should complete all of the practice problems in chapter 4 in preparation for the chapter 4 test on April 23.
Friday, April 9, 2010
April 12, 2010 (week 29)
AP Physics 12 - We will study chapter 22 Electromagnetism this week. Reminder to get thinking about your physics project due later in May.
Physics 11 - We will have the chapter 14 test on April 20. This week we will get started with chapter 17 Reflection and Refraction. Reminder to submit Playland Fieldtrip $17 and Consent Forms due by April 16.
Science 10 - This week we will wrap up chapter 7 Radioactivity. Students must complete workbook chapter 7 in preparation for the chapter 7 test on April 16.
Math 9 - We are currently working in chapter 4 Polynomials. Students must complete the practice problems in each section of the text.
Physics 11 - We will have the chapter 14 test on April 20. This week we will get started with chapter 17 Reflection and Refraction. Reminder to submit Playland Fieldtrip $17 and Consent Forms due by April 16.
Science 10 - This week we will wrap up chapter 7 Radioactivity. Students must complete workbook chapter 7 in preparation for the chapter 7 test on April 16.
Math 9 - We are currently working in chapter 4 Polynomials. Students must complete the practice problems in each section of the text.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
April 6, 2010 (week 28)
AP Physics 12 - Students will write a practice AP Exam on April 6. Later in the week we will do a lab activity related to electromagnetic induction. We'll also get started with chapter 22 Electromagnetism.
Physics 11 - Students will do an activity involving waves in a slinky. We'll have a quiz on chapter 14.1 on April 8.
Science 10 - Students will do an activity that models radioactive decay and learn about half-life of radioisotopes. They should also be completing workbook chapter 7 in preparation for the chapter 7 test on April 16.
Math 9 - We have started chapter 4 Polynomials and students must complete the practice problems in each section of the chapter. Mr. Ho will teach students how to add/subtract polynomials.
Physics 11 - Students will do an activity involving waves in a slinky. We'll have a quiz on chapter 14.1 on April 8.
Science 10 - Students will do an activity that models radioactive decay and learn about half-life of radioisotopes. They should also be completing workbook chapter 7 in preparation for the chapter 7 test on April 16.
Math 9 - We have started chapter 4 Polynomials and students must complete the practice problems in each section of the chapter. Mr. Ho will teach students how to add/subtract polynomials.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Orlando Florida Fieldtrip Updates (March 31-April 7, 2010)
Students who are participating in this Edventure, please remind your teachers that you will be away from school from March 31 to April 7. Ask them to provide assignments in advance if this is possible so that you can complete tasks before our trip or on the airplane. Also, be sure to check out the Alaska Airlines website for information about check-in and carry on luggage. Information is available at http://www.alaskaair.com/dayofflight/
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Bus departs for SeaTac Airport at 3:45 AM. Please arrive 30-45 minutes prior to departure time so that we can depart on schedule. Have your passports and some cash with you. Boarding for the bus will take place just outside the MJF Theatre in the main parking lot.
9 PM EST - We have arrived safe and sound. The students were excellent travellers and all went very smooth. We've already had a late dinner at CiCi's Pizza House and have checked into the hotel, kids are very happy with the hotel rooms and pool. Tonight I will set up the banking system and give the kids a hotel orientation. Bye for now.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Today we visited Disney's Animal Kingdom which is an amazing zoo and conservatory. We were taken behind the scenes, and in the nutrition center we saw meals being prepared for the over 2000 species of animals that are housed in the park. On our Jungle Safari ride we saw white Rhino's, giraffes, hypos, and many more exotic creatures of the African Sahara. Some of those animals had been hunted to near extinction but thanks to the conservation efforts of zoos like the Disney Animal Kingdom, scientists have been able to bring the population numbers up. The kids also really enjoyed the Festival of the Lion King performance, a musical spectacular with acrobats, dancers and singers. In the evening we went to DisneyQuest and the students participated in a variety of "virtual adventures" and 3D movies. We returned to the hotel around 9:30 EST and the kids are quite tired from their first full day in the sun. It was a hot day (mid 80's) and it's expected to be a hot week so we'll continue to reminded the kids to wear lots of sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Overall, the kids were great today, very reliable, and thus far have demonstrated that they are a very fun and responsible group. Enjoy the long weekend at home everyone. Until tomorrow.
Friday, April 2, 2010
We spend most of the day at Universal Studio's Island's of Adventure Theme Park. The education program today focused on the technical and engineering challenges involved in designing some of the world's most exciting theme rides. The Spiderman ride was particularly challenging to construct since it is a fast moving and 3d experience, requiring specialized goggles and plenty of computer processing power. In fact, the computers used to control the Spiderman Ride have more processing power than that of the computers on board the space shuttle, and the cost to build the Spiderman ride was $100 million making it the most expensive ride on the planet! Kids also enjoyed The Incredible Hulk roller coaster which accelerated them from o to 60 mph in just 2 seconds, producing 4.5 g-forces on the passengers (analogous to them experience four and one-half times their usual weight). They also loved the Duelling Dragons and of course the water rides where they all got soaked.
In the evening we saw the Blue Man Show, which involved 3 blue guys, plenty of percussion, paint, comedy, and audience participation. It is hard to describe exactly what we saw but it was a terrific show and we even got to take pictures with the 3 Blue Men after the show. Tomorrow we are off to EPCOT. Good night everyone, thanks for sending such great kids on this trip!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Today was a full day at EPCOT Center. The acronym EPCOT stands for "Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow" and is was Walt Disney's vision of what the future might look like. EPCOT is also home to over 3500 aquatic animals and so the theme for today's Ed-venture was Marine Sciences. Our tour director is actually a university researcher and he told us all about "husbandry" which is the training required for the health and well-being of the animals. The EPCOT Marine Centre is not an animal amusement park but rather a rescue and rehabilitation site for marine species. The only animal training that takes place at EPCOT is that related to "husbandry", which means training that is specifically for the health and well being of the animals. They are trained how and when to feed, and how to behave when the trainers are obtaining blood samples.
In the afternoon we visited the other half of EPCOT which is an International Plaza of Nations. There are beautiful pavilions and performers from countries around the world, including Canada. At the UK Pavilian we found "The Beatles" playing some of their famous tunes from the 60's. The evening finale was the Fireworks and Laser Spectacular. Kids had a great time and were singing on the bus all the way back to the hotel. The students are all enjoying each other's company and are getting to know each other's unique personalities. Tomorrow is another full day and we'll be at two parks so it's time to get to bed. Good night.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Happy Easter everyone! We have had another terrific day in Florida. We started our day at SeaWorld and our education program brought us behind the scenes to the food preparation area and the animal hospital. The students saw a baby sea-turtle getting a check up in the operating room and he was waiving his flippers to us on the way out after a clean bill of health. We also had an up-close encounter with some dolphins who were very happy to see us. The dolphins are very social and they squealed and slapped the water to get our attention. Of course, the kids had to try the new thriller ride called Mantra, in which they ride the roller coaster face down as if they were swimming through the water like sting-rays. In the afternoon we headed for Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park. Students took the Backlot Studio Tour which took them through Catastrophe Canyon. They took in some stunt shows, 3D Muppet's Show, Beauty and the Beast Musical, and of course more thrill rides (Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock 'n Roll Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith, and more). The evening ended with a spectacular laser-fireworks show called Fantasmic. Tomorrow morning we are getting up early to watch the launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery (6:21 EST). We won't be on site for the launch but should have a good view from our Hotel. We'll arrive at the Kennedy Space Center around 9:30 AM EST for our educational program and I'm sure you can guess the theme of our ed-program. Here is a link to the KSC website with more launch information. http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/space-shuttle-launch-viewing-tickets.aspx
Monday, April 5, 2010
At 6:04 AM the International Space Station was visible for 3 minutes and we watched it travel across the sky at it's orbital altitude of about 350 km above the earth. Then, at exactly 6:21 the sky lit up and we watched the Space Shuttle Discovery launching up into orbit! Even though it was 60 miles away we had perfect visibility and it was an awesome sight. It was a huge, bright white fireball trailing the shuttle and leaving behind a beautiful plume trail as it ascended. The sun is just starting to rise in the east and the kids are crawling back into bed for awhile before we head out to the Kenndey Space Center where we will be riding a Space Shuttle Launch Simulator and watching a 3D movie of the ISS.
I really enjoyed the nostalgia at the Kennedy Space Centre. We learned about the space race, with the Soviets gaining the upper hand when they put the first man into space. However, United States President John F. Kennedy made a powerful speech to the nation and proclaimed that America had set it sights even higher and would attempt to be the first nation to put a man on the moon. Thus began the Apollo space missions. We visited the actual Mission Control Room and watched an a countdown sequence from Apollo 1, and then we watched a movie about Apollo 11 which was the mission that put Neil Armstrong on the moon in 1969. NASA eventually retired the Saturn 5 rockets and introduced the re-usable space shuttles that our kids have grown up with. We rode in a Space Shuttle Launch Simulator and experienced what it felt like to be an astronaut awaiting final countdown, complete with engine ignition and acceleration into orbit. It actually felt like we were escaping from planet earth as we felt the g-forces pulling us down into our seats. Later this evening we went to the Orlando Outlet Shopping Centre and we did our best to support the local economy!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Today we spent the day at Disney World Magic Kingdom. Our education program theme was "Energy and Waves" which is a very nice tie to our Science 10 course. We had a backstage tour of the Haunted Mansion and learned how mirrors, scrims, and fluorescent lighting are used to create many of the ghostly special effects. Kids really enjoyed this program and the 3 hours really flew by. The students were wishing that every day at school could be so interesting and so much fun (I'll try to talk my colleagues into dressing up like Disney characters). We had the rest of the day in the park to explore some of the classic theme rides like Pirates of the Caribbean, It's a Small World, Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and many more. We watched the Electromagic Parade at 9 PM followed by the fireworks show over the Disney Castle. It was an amazing pyrotechnics display and everyone left with a huge smile. We returned home very late this evening and have started to pack. Tomorrow we spend most of the day at Typhoon Lagoon which is a terrific water park, then we'll catch our afternoon flight back home. This will be my last opportunity to post to this Blog and so I wish to thank all of the parents for allowing your children to participate in this experience. They have all been terrific and have developed strong friendships that I'm sure they will sustain throughout high school. It has been my pleasure to travel and to share in this experience with them, and they have taken hundreds of photos they cannot wait to share them with you!
P.S. Expect a phone call once we cross the border into Canada, and we're expected back shortly after midnight tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Bus departs for SeaTac Airport at 3:45 AM. Please arrive 30-45 minutes prior to departure time so that we can depart on schedule. Have your passports and some cash with you. Boarding for the bus will take place just outside the MJF Theatre in the main parking lot.
9 PM EST - We have arrived safe and sound. The students were excellent travellers and all went very smooth. We've already had a late dinner at CiCi's Pizza House and have checked into the hotel, kids are very happy with the hotel rooms and pool. Tonight I will set up the banking system and give the kids a hotel orientation. Bye for now.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Today we visited Disney's Animal Kingdom which is an amazing zoo and conservatory. We were taken behind the scenes, and in the nutrition center we saw meals being prepared for the over 2000 species of animals that are housed in the park. On our Jungle Safari ride we saw white Rhino's, giraffes, hypos, and many more exotic creatures of the African Sahara. Some of those animals had been hunted to near extinction but thanks to the conservation efforts of zoos like the Disney Animal Kingdom, scientists have been able to bring the population numbers up. The kids also really enjoyed the Festival of the Lion King performance, a musical spectacular with acrobats, dancers and singers. In the evening we went to DisneyQuest and the students participated in a variety of "virtual adventures" and 3D movies. We returned to the hotel around 9:30 EST and the kids are quite tired from their first full day in the sun. It was a hot day (mid 80's) and it's expected to be a hot week so we'll continue to reminded the kids to wear lots of sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Overall, the kids were great today, very reliable, and thus far have demonstrated that they are a very fun and responsible group. Enjoy the long weekend at home everyone. Until tomorrow.
Friday, April 2, 2010
We spend most of the day at Universal Studio's Island's of Adventure Theme Park. The education program today focused on the technical and engineering challenges involved in designing some of the world's most exciting theme rides. The Spiderman ride was particularly challenging to construct since it is a fast moving and 3d experience, requiring specialized goggles and plenty of computer processing power. In fact, the computers used to control the Spiderman Ride have more processing power than that of the computers on board the space shuttle, and the cost to build the Spiderman ride was $100 million making it the most expensive ride on the planet! Kids also enjoyed The Incredible Hulk roller coaster which accelerated them from o to 60 mph in just 2 seconds, producing 4.5 g-forces on the passengers (analogous to them experience four and one-half times their usual weight). They also loved the Duelling Dragons and of course the water rides where they all got soaked.
In the evening we saw the Blue Man Show, which involved 3 blue guys, plenty of percussion, paint, comedy, and audience participation. It is hard to describe exactly what we saw but it was a terrific show and we even got to take pictures with the 3 Blue Men after the show. Tomorrow we are off to EPCOT. Good night everyone, thanks for sending such great kids on this trip!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Today was a full day at EPCOT Center. The acronym EPCOT stands for "Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow" and is was Walt Disney's vision of what the future might look like. EPCOT is also home to over 3500 aquatic animals and so the theme for today's Ed-venture was Marine Sciences. Our tour director is actually a university researcher and he told us all about "husbandry" which is the training required for the health and well-being of the animals. The EPCOT Marine Centre is not an animal amusement park but rather a rescue and rehabilitation site for marine species. The only animal training that takes place at EPCOT is that related to "husbandry", which means training that is specifically for the health and well being of the animals. They are trained how and when to feed, and how to behave when the trainers are obtaining blood samples.
In the afternoon we visited the other half of EPCOT which is an International Plaza of Nations. There are beautiful pavilions and performers from countries around the world, including Canada. At the UK Pavilian we found "The Beatles" playing some of their famous tunes from the 60's. The evening finale was the Fireworks and Laser Spectacular. Kids had a great time and were singing on the bus all the way back to the hotel. The students are all enjoying each other's company and are getting to know each other's unique personalities. Tomorrow is another full day and we'll be at two parks so it's time to get to bed. Good night.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Happy Easter everyone! We have had another terrific day in Florida. We started our day at SeaWorld and our education program brought us behind the scenes to the food preparation area and the animal hospital. The students saw a baby sea-turtle getting a check up in the operating room and he was waiving his flippers to us on the way out after a clean bill of health. We also had an up-close encounter with some dolphins who were very happy to see us. The dolphins are very social and they squealed and slapped the water to get our attention. Of course, the kids had to try the new thriller ride called Mantra, in which they ride the roller coaster face down as if they were swimming through the water like sting-rays. In the afternoon we headed for Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park. Students took the Backlot Studio Tour which took them through Catastrophe Canyon. They took in some stunt shows, 3D Muppet's Show, Beauty and the Beast Musical, and of course more thrill rides (Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock 'n Roll Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith, and more). The evening ended with a spectacular laser-fireworks show called Fantasmic. Tomorrow morning we are getting up early to watch the launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery (6:21 EST). We won't be on site for the launch but should have a good view from our Hotel. We'll arrive at the Kennedy Space Center around 9:30 AM EST for our educational program and I'm sure you can guess the theme of our ed-program. Here is a link to the KSC website with more launch information. http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/space-shuttle-launch-viewing-tickets.aspx
Monday, April 5, 2010
At 6:04 AM the International Space Station was visible for 3 minutes and we watched it travel across the sky at it's orbital altitude of about 350 km above the earth. Then, at exactly 6:21 the sky lit up and we watched the Space Shuttle Discovery launching up into orbit! Even though it was 60 miles away we had perfect visibility and it was an awesome sight. It was a huge, bright white fireball trailing the shuttle and leaving behind a beautiful plume trail as it ascended. The sun is just starting to rise in the east and the kids are crawling back into bed for awhile before we head out to the Kenndey Space Center where we will be riding a Space Shuttle Launch Simulator and watching a 3D movie of the ISS.
I really enjoyed the nostalgia at the Kennedy Space Centre. We learned about the space race, with the Soviets gaining the upper hand when they put the first man into space. However, United States President John F. Kennedy made a powerful speech to the nation and proclaimed that America had set it sights even higher and would attempt to be the first nation to put a man on the moon. Thus began the Apollo space missions. We visited the actual Mission Control Room and watched an a countdown sequence from Apollo 1, and then we watched a movie about Apollo 11 which was the mission that put Neil Armstrong on the moon in 1969. NASA eventually retired the Saturn 5 rockets and introduced the re-usable space shuttles that our kids have grown up with. We rode in a Space Shuttle Launch Simulator and experienced what it felt like to be an astronaut awaiting final countdown, complete with engine ignition and acceleration into orbit. It actually felt like we were escaping from planet earth as we felt the g-forces pulling us down into our seats. Later this evening we went to the Orlando Outlet Shopping Centre and we did our best to support the local economy!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Today we spent the day at Disney World Magic Kingdom. Our education program theme was "Energy and Waves" which is a very nice tie to our Science 10 course. We had a backstage tour of the Haunted Mansion and learned how mirrors, scrims, and fluorescent lighting are used to create many of the ghostly special effects. Kids really enjoyed this program and the 3 hours really flew by. The students were wishing that every day at school could be so interesting and so much fun (I'll try to talk my colleagues into dressing up like Disney characters). We had the rest of the day in the park to explore some of the classic theme rides like Pirates of the Caribbean, It's a Small World, Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and many more. We watched the Electromagic Parade at 9 PM followed by the fireworks show over the Disney Castle. It was an amazing pyrotechnics display and everyone left with a huge smile. We returned home very late this evening and have started to pack. Tomorrow we spend most of the day at Typhoon Lagoon which is a terrific water park, then we'll catch our afternoon flight back home. This will be my last opportunity to post to this Blog and so I wish to thank all of the parents for allowing your children to participate in this experience. They have all been terrific and have developed strong friendships that I'm sure they will sustain throughout high school. It has been my pleasure to travel and to share in this experience with them, and they have taken hundreds of photos they cannot wait to share them with you!
P.S. Expect a phone call once we cross the border into Canada, and we're expected back shortly after midnight tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
March 29, 2010 (week 27)
AP Physics 12 - This week we will work on chapter 21 Magnetism. Students should read the textbook, look over the example problems and complete the end of chapter review problems.
Physics 11 - We are starting chapter 14 Waves. Students should complete all of the textbook practice problems.
Science 10 - Students should complete workbook chapter 6 in preparation for the chapter 6 test on March 29. This week we are starting chapter 7 on Radioactivity. Students should get started on workbook chapter 7.
Math 9 - Reminder of the chapter 8 test on March 30. This week we will begin chapter 4 Polynomials.
Physics 11 - We are starting chapter 14 Waves. Students should complete all of the textbook practice problems.
Science 10 - Students should complete workbook chapter 6 in preparation for the chapter 6 test on March 29. This week we are starting chapter 7 on Radioactivity. Students should get started on workbook chapter 7.
Math 9 - Reminder of the chapter 8 test on March 30. This week we will begin chapter 4 Polynomials.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
March 22, 2010 (week 26)
AP Physics 12 - This week we will do a lab activity involving parallel circuits. Then we will start chapter 21 Magnetism.
Physics 11 - This week we will complete our study of Einstein's Theory of Special Relativity. Students will learn how to use Einstein's equations to solve a variety of problems involving relativistic effects. Reminder of the chapter 12 Thermal Energy test on March 25.
Science 10 - This week we will complete chapter 6.2 on the factors that affect rate of chemical reactions. Students should complete all of workbook chapter 6 in preparation for the chapter 6 test on March 29.
Math 9 - This week we will complete chapter 8 Transformations. Students should complete all of the practice problems in each section of the text in preparation for the Chapter 8 test on March 30.
Physics 11 - This week we will complete our study of Einstein's Theory of Special Relativity. Students will learn how to use Einstein's equations to solve a variety of problems involving relativistic effects. Reminder of the chapter 12 Thermal Energy test on March 25.
Science 10 - This week we will complete chapter 6.2 on the factors that affect rate of chemical reactions. Students should complete all of workbook chapter 6 in preparation for the chapter 6 test on March 29.
Math 9 - This week we will complete chapter 8 Transformations. Students should complete all of the practice problems in each section of the text in preparation for the Chapter 8 test on March 30.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
March 15, 2010 (week 25)
AP Physics 12 - Reminder of the chapter 18/19 test on March 19. Students must complete a minimum of 50 practice problems in preparation for the test. This week we will get started with chapter 20 DC Circuits.
Physics 11 - This week we will complete chapter 12 Thermal Energy and do a lab on efficiency of various heating devices. Students should complete a minimum of 25 practice problems in preparation for the chapter 12 test on March 25.
Science 10 - Students have been assigned a "Take Home Test" to be completed by March 19. This includes the following tasks:
Physics 11 - This week we will complete chapter 12 Thermal Energy and do a lab on efficiency of various heating devices. Students should complete a minimum of 25 practice problems in preparation for the chapter 12 test on March 25.
Science 10 - Students have been assigned a "Take Home Test" to be completed by March 19. This includes the following tasks:
- Read chapter 5.3 Organic Chemistry and make your own set of study notes
- Page 247 Reading Check
- Page 252 Check Your Understanding
- Workbook chapter 5
Math 9 - We are currently working in chapter 8 Transformations. Students should complete the practice problems in each section of chapter 8.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
March 1, 2010 (week 24)
AP Physics 12 - This week we will complete chapter 19 on Electric Potential. Reminder of the chapter 18/19 test on March 19. Students should also be working on their term 3 physics project.
Physics 11 - This week we will learn about heat of fusion and heat of vaporization, and we will solve problems involving heat transfer (calorimetry). After the spring break we'll complete chapter 12 and the chapter 12 test will be on March 25.
Science 10 - This week we will complete chapter 5 and students should be completing their workbook in preparation for the chapter 5 test on March 4 - Note that this test will cover only sections 5.1 and 5.2.
Math 9 - Reminder of the chapter 3 test on March 1. This week we will begin chapter 8 Transformations. Students must complete the practice problems in each section of chapter 8.
Physics 11 - This week we will learn about heat of fusion and heat of vaporization, and we will solve problems involving heat transfer (calorimetry). After the spring break we'll complete chapter 12 and the chapter 12 test will be on March 25.
Science 10 - This week we will complete chapter 5 and students should be completing their workbook in preparation for the chapter 5 test on March 4 - Note that this test will cover only sections 5.1 and 5.2.
Math 9 - Reminder of the chapter 3 test on March 1. This week we will begin chapter 8 Transformations. Students must complete the practice problems in each section of chapter 8.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
February 22, 2010 (week 23)
AP Physics - This week we will learn about capacitors and RC circuits, and get started with chapter 19 Electric Potential.
Physics 11 - Reminder of the chapter 10/11 test on February 24. This week we will learn about latent heat and calorimetry problems in chapter 12.
Science 10 - This week we'll complete chapter 5.3 Organic Compounds. Students should be completing the workbook at their own pace in preparation for the chapter 5 test at the start of March.
Math 9 - This week we will complete chapter 3. Students must complete the practice problems in each section in preparation for the chapter 3 test on March 1.
Physics 11 - Reminder of the chapter 10/11 test on February 24. This week we will learn about latent heat and calorimetry problems in chapter 12.
Science 10 - This week we'll complete chapter 5.3 Organic Compounds. Students should be completing the workbook at their own pace in preparation for the chapter 5 test at the start of March.
Math 9 - This week we will complete chapter 3. Students must complete the practice problems in each section in preparation for the chapter 3 test on March 1.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
February 15, 2010 (week 22)
AP Physics 12 - This week we will finish chapter 18 Electrostatics. Reminder of the chapter 9 torque test on February 15.
Physics 11 - This week we will finish up with chapter 11 Energy. Reminder of the chapter 10/11 test on February 24.
Science 10 - This week we are working on chapter 5.2 Salts.
math 9 - This week we will continue with chapter 3.6 and more. Students should complete the practice problems in each section of the text. Expect to have daily quizzes on the previous days homework.
Physics 11 - This week we will finish up with chapter 11 Energy. Reminder of the chapter 10/11 test on February 24.
Science 10 - This week we are working on chapter 5.2 Salts.
math 9 - This week we will continue with chapter 3.6 and more. Students should complete the practice problems in each section of the text. Expect to have daily quizzes on the previous days homework.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
February 8, 2010 (week 21)
AP Physics 12 - Reminder of the chapter 9 Torque test on February 11. This week we will start chapter 18 Electrostatics.
Physics 11 - This week we will finish chapter 11 Energy Conservation. Students should complete all of the practice problems and end of chapter review problems in preparation for the chapter 11 test on February 18.
Science 10 - This week we will continue to work on chapter 5 Acids, Bases, and Salts. Students should we completing workbook chapter 5 at their own pace in preparation for the test in a few weeks.
Math 9 - We are currently working in chapter 3 Using Algebra to Solve Problems. Students should be completing all of the practice problems in each section of chapter 3. They need to show their workings as per the examples in their text. Many students rush to complete their work without adequately showing their workings in a series of clear steps. Parents should check to see that their child is showing work in steps.
Physics 11 - This week we will finish chapter 11 Energy Conservation. Students should complete all of the practice problems and end of chapter review problems in preparation for the chapter 11 test on February 18.
Science 10 - This week we will continue to work on chapter 5 Acids, Bases, and Salts. Students should we completing workbook chapter 5 at their own pace in preparation for the test in a few weeks.
Math 9 - We are currently working in chapter 3 Using Algebra to Solve Problems. Students should be completing all of the practice problems in each section of chapter 3. They need to show their workings as per the examples in their text. Many students rush to complete their work without adequately showing their workings in a series of clear steps. Parents should check to see that their child is showing work in steps.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
February 1, 2010 (week 20)
AP Physics 12 - We will continue our studies in chapter 9 Torque and Equilibrium.
Physics 11 - This week we will study chapter 11 Kinetic and Potential Energy and the Conservation of Energy. Reminder of the Spring Exam on February 4, worth 20% of the term two mark.
Science 10 - Students should have completed all of workbook chapter 4 in preparation for the chapter 4 test on February 5. This week we will get started with chapter 5 Acids and Bases.
Math 9 - We are starting chapter 3 Using Equations to Solve Problems. Students should complete the practice problems in each section of the text.
Physics 11 - This week we will study chapter 11 Kinetic and Potential Energy and the Conservation of Energy. Reminder of the Spring Exam on February 4, worth 20% of the term two mark.
Science 10 - Students should have completed all of workbook chapter 4 in preparation for the chapter 4 test on February 5. This week we will get started with chapter 5 Acids and Bases.
Math 9 - We are starting chapter 3 Using Equations to Solve Problems. Students should complete the practice problems in each section of the text.
Friday, January 22, 2010
January 25, 2010 (week 19)
AP Physics 12 - We have started chapter 9 Torque and Equilibrium. Students should be working on the textbook problems and also the old provincial exam problems for practice.
Physics 11 - This week we will complete chapter 10.1 on Work, Energy and Power. Students should complete all of the text practice problems and also the end of chapter 10.1 review problems. Note that we do NOT cover chapter 10.2 in this course.
Science 10 - This week we will finish up chapter 4.3 Balancing Chemical Equations. Students should complete all of workbook chapter 4 in preparation for the chapter 4 test at the end of next week.
Math 9 - This week we will finish chapter 2. Students must complete all of the practice problems in preparation for the chapter 2 test on January 29.
Physics 11 - This week we will complete chapter 10.1 on Work, Energy and Power. Students should complete all of the text practice problems and also the end of chapter 10.1 review problems. Note that we do NOT cover chapter 10.2 in this course.
Science 10 - This week we will finish up chapter 4.3 Balancing Chemical Equations. Students should complete all of workbook chapter 4 in preparation for the chapter 4 test at the end of next week.
Math 9 - This week we will finish chapter 2. Students must complete all of the practice problems in preparation for the chapter 2 test on January 29.
Friday, January 15, 2010
January 18, 2010 (week 18)
AP Physics 12 - Reminder of the chapter 6/7 test on January 21 (also includes Simple Harmonic Motion chapter 10 stuff). This week we will get started with chapter 9 Torque and Equilibrium. This is an interesting topic and certainly relevant to anyone who wants to study engineering at university.
Physics 11 - Reminder of the chapter 9 Impulse and Momentum test on January 18. This wee we will get started with chapter 10.1 Work, Energy and Power.
Science 10 - This week we will complete chapter 4.3 Balancing Chemical Equations. Students should be completing workbook chapter 4 at their own pace.
Math 9 - This week we will try to finish up chapter 2 and students should be completing all of the practice problems in each section, in preparation for the chapter 2 test on January 29.
Physics 11 - Reminder of the chapter 9 Impulse and Momentum test on January 18. This wee we will get started with chapter 10.1 Work, Energy and Power.
Science 10 - This week we will complete chapter 4.3 Balancing Chemical Equations. Students should be completing workbook chapter 4 at their own pace.
Math 9 - This week we will try to finish up chapter 2 and students should be completing all of the practice problems in each section, in preparation for the chapter 2 test on January 29.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
January 11, 2010 (week 17)
AP Physics 12 - This week we will study conservation of momentum in 2 dimensions and should finish chapter 7 by the end of the week. We will have a test next week covering chapters 6 & 7 (Energy and Momentum). Chapter 6/7 test on January 21, 2010.
Physics 11 - This week we will study the conservation of momentum in 1 dimension (linear collisions). Students should complete all of the practice problems in preparation for the chapter 9 test on January 18.
Science 10 - This week we will complete chapter 4.2 and 4.3 which involve writing chemical formulas, naming compounds, and balancing chemical equations. Students should complete the workbook at their own pace in preparation for the chapter 4 test in a few weeks.
Math 9 - This week we will continue to work in chapter 2 Algebra. Students should complete the practice problems in each section in preparation for the chapter 2 test on January 29.
Physics 11 - This week we will study the conservation of momentum in 1 dimension (linear collisions). Students should complete all of the practice problems in preparation for the chapter 9 test on January 18.
Science 10 - This week we will complete chapter 4.2 and 4.3 which involve writing chemical formulas, naming compounds, and balancing chemical equations. Students should complete the workbook at their own pace in preparation for the chapter 4 test in a few weeks.
Math 9 - This week we will continue to work in chapter 2 Algebra. Students should complete the practice problems in each section in preparation for the chapter 2 test on January 29.
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