Course Description:
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, Algebra II; Pre-AP Biology, Pre-AP Chemistry, Honors Algebra II recommended or concurrently enrolled in Algebra II
This course includes topics in both classical and modern physics. Knowledge of Algebra and basic Trigonometry is required for the course: the basic ideas of calculus may be introduced in connection with physical concepts such as acceleration and work.
In Physics, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students study various topics including laws of motion; changes within physical systems and conservation of energy and momentum; forces; thermodynamics; characteristics and behavior of waves; and atomic, nuclear, and quantum physics. Students who successfully complete Physics will acquire factual knowledge within a conceptual framework, practice experimental design and interpretation, work collaboratively with colleagues, and develop critical thinking skills. This is an accelerated college preparatory course that requires students to think at elevated levels. The course uses the laboratory approach and will require work outside the school day.
Materials needed for this course:
Students are REQUIRED to be prepared for class each day.
o Students will need to bring to class every day:
Pencils – Mechanical or wooden (many)
Pens (blue or black)
1-subject college rule spiral (about 100 sheets will work)
Scientific Calculator (TI-30X II S - I do have some available for classroom use only)
In addition, students will need to bring specific items based on their class period:
1st period – 1 package of blue or green painters’ tape & 1 package of Post-it notes
2nd period – 1 (3-pack) white poster board & pack of 4 dry-erase markers
3rd period – 1 (3-pack) white poster board & 2 boxes of tissues
4th period – 1 package of 10 markers & 1 bottle of hand sanitizer
5th period –1 package of 12 colored pencils & 2 white board erasers
Possible Labs/Activities: (to include but are not limited to)
Walking motion lab
Vectors lab
Free Fall Lab
Projectiles Lab
Newton's Laws Project - students are responsible for creating a presentation that explains and demonstrates each of Newton's laws.
Egg Drop Lab (collisions) - students will need to provide their own materials for this lab
Electrostatics Lab
Circuits Lab
Magentism Lab
Waves Lab