Physics

Grade: 11 - 12 

Duration: 2 Semesters

Prerequisite: M2 Algebra II 

Credit: 0.5 per semester

This course teaches the concepts and principles of Physics, emphasizing the conceptual understanding of these topics.  The class will embark on a “Voyage of Discovery” by exploring how the world around us works. The concepts and principles of Physics will be investigated via a quantitative and a conceptual approach. This will be accomplished by conducting over 40 different labs, various out of class projects, and enrichment assignments. 

The lab experience furthers problem-solving ability by using investigative processes that are non-specific and non-"cook book". This course has been designed to make students think "out of the box" and to stimulate their imaginations. 

The following topics will be investigated in this course: velocity, acceleration, projectile motion, forces, momentum, energy, circular and rotational motion, gravity, heat, fluids, sound and waves, electricity, magnetism, and light and optics.

A working knowledge of Geometry and Algebra I is important for this course. Daily homework problem worksheets and lab reports based on presented topics will be assigned. 

Text: Conceptual Physics,  13th Edition, Hewitt, Pearson.

AP 1 Physics

Grade: 11 - 12 

Duration: 2 Semesters

Prerequisite: Precalculus M3 or M4 concurrently; Department Approval/ Instructor Recommendation

Credit: 0.5 per semester

The AP Physics I Mechanics Course is an Algebra based course that prepares students to take the Physics Advance Placement Level 1 (Mechanics) examination.   

A comprehensive study of matter, motion, forces,  energy and their interactions the course will illustrate how all of the concepts that we will cover are interconnected and also cut across traditional content boundaries and should provide students a broader way of thinking about natural phenomena in our universe.  

The order of topics follows the historical development of this area of science. The first semester covers kinematics (motion), dynamics (forces), energy, momentum, gravitational and circular motion, and rotational dynamics. The second semester begins with simple harmonic motion, sound, and then finishes up with electrostatics and DC Circuits.  

Lab Reports and problem sets are an integral part of this course.

Text: College Physics, 11th edition - AP Edition, Serway & Vuille, Cengage Learning.