Kinematics

The resources in this section have been compiled for my students from a wide variety of AP Physics 1 textbooks (by authors like Knight, Serway, Giancoli, and the team that wrote OpenStax), the nTIPERs ranking task books, CollegeBoard provided question bank, and The Physics Classroom. A copy of all of these books are available in my classroom if any student would like to read or reference them.

Last updated 7/11/2025.

Introduction to Studying Physics

Physics, unlike some of the more "fun fact" sciences (bio/earth/anatomy), is more about learning to model the world and problem solve strategically. Gone are the days of "doing it in your head." There will just be too many variables for any reasonable person to organize without models and lists. You will be required to use physics problem solving principles throughout this course, to show your ability to apply the physics you learn during reading and lectures.

The Main Problem Solving Strategy:

1) Create a Diagram or a Sketch of the Situation (Includes a Free Body Diagram starting in Dynamics)

2) Make a list of given variables or allowed variables for a derivation

3) Separate known variables into x & y axis components (for all 2D problems)

4) Solve for unknown variables by selecting appropriate starting equations and performing routine Algebra

5) Enter numbers into the equations to perform calculations if necessary

Skipping steps in this process generally leads students to heartache and misery. The AP Physics 1 curriculum designers believe in this problem solving process so much that they regularly include each of these steps as separate questions in the free-response portion of the AP exam. To study physics successfully, you'll need to preload information before lectures by watching videos or reading, actively participate during class time, and always attempt the Dungeons and Derivations worksheets. To make this challenging class a little more fun, Smith has designed a class game. Details will be announced when the game begins.

Kinematics Motion Diagrams and Graphs

Pre-lecture reading assignments: Section 2.1, 2.2

Introductory Lab Activity: The Toy Car Lab, a Test for Constant Velocity

Vector Practice Worksheets:

Distance vs. Displacement, Answers (needs redecoration)

2D Vector Addition, Answers (needs redecoration)

Notes:

Position and Velocity v. Time Graphs, Filled Out

Acceleration v. Time Graphs, Filled Out

Worksheets:

Velocity Graph Practice, Answers (needs redecoration)

AP Kin Graph Practice, Answers (needs redecoration)

Kinematics Equations

Pre-lecture reading assignments: Section 2.3

Notes:

Worksheets:

Free-Fall and Other Constant Acceleration Situations

Pre-lecture reading assignments: Section 2.4

Notes:

Worksheets:

Multiple-Choice Prep

Free Response Question Prep

End of Unit Quests

Progress Check 1.1 MR

Progress Check 1.2 TBR

Progress Check 1.3 LAB

Progress Check 1.4 QQT

The following content is from previous school years. You'll notice that most of the problems are the same, but that the decorations are very different. Most of the videos were made during the COVID years and do not reflect current AP Physics 1 standards.