Physics
Description and Rationale
This course is designed for students interested in a mathematically oriented Physics course that will move at a slower pace than the honors course. We will focus our attention on a few major topics in an in-depth manner. These topics will give students a better understanding of everyday phenomena. The quantitative nature of this course requires students to become proficient at applying mathematical concepts to problem solving. In addition, the course will foster skills such as reasoning, discussion, laboratory work, data analysis, and the reading of scientific material.
Learning Objectives
Students will understand and be able to apply the concepts, laws, and principles that describe and explain a broad range of physical phenomena. In doing so, they will be able to apply the appropriate mathematical and reasoning skills to problem solve on the homework assignments and tests as well as in the laboratory. Students will also be expected to develop their laboratory skills in experiment preparation, organization and apparatus setup, the acquisition and analysis of data, identifying sources of experimental error, and drawing conclusions about the experiment. Additionally, students will learn to develop their ability to work in groups in the laboratory setting and write coherently about the phenomena they investigate.
Teaching Methods and Evaluation
The theoretical aspects of the course will be introduced to students through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, discussions, laboratory work, and textbook reading. In addition, homework will be assigned regularly to complement the material covered in class. Students will also be expected to present problems and concepts to the class on a regular basis. The range of teaching tools is designed to allow students with a variety of learning styles to flourish. The students will be assessed on their performance on homework assignments(25%), laboratory reports(25%), quizzes, tests(40%) (which usually cover one or two chapters) as well as the end of semester exam. Additionally, in-class participation(10%) will be a portion of the students’ final grade.
Course Materials
The textbook for the course is, Physics : World View, Edition: 6TH, Kirkpatrick, Larry. A scientific calculator is essential for the course and graphing capability is recommended. Additionally, a quad rule notebook is necessary for laboratory work. A website has been developed to give the class access to the course materials. wyvern.k-o.org/hildebrand.b
Outline of Topics
Kinematics, Energy and Momentum, Oscillations and Waves, Electrostatics, Electronics, Magnetism, and Optics.
