PHYSICS
School Year 2015-16
Course Outline:
- Physics is a two semester laboratory course to develop an understanding of matter and its motion including the study of forces and temperature. The goal of physics is to use a small number of basic concepts, equations, and assumptions to describe the physical world. Students will use the scientific method as their primary tool for exploration of physics.
Prerequisites:
Biology, Algebra 1
Timing and Topic Order:
|
Semester 1 |
Semester 2 |
| 1st Quarter.
Measurement and the nature of physics Motion in one direction Two dimensional motion Forces and the laws of motion 2nd Quarter. Work and Energy Momentum and Collisions Circular motion and gravitation Fluid Mechanics |
3rd Quarter.
Heat Thermodynamics Vibrations and waves Sound 4th Quarter. light and reflection Electric forces and fields Electrical Energy and current Modern physics |
Textbook:
Physics by Serway and Faughn published by Holt McDougal
Quarter Assessment & Weightings:
Tests & Quizzes 60%
Homework 25%
Laboratories 15%
Semester Assessment & Weightings:
1st / 3rd Quarter 42.5%
2nd / 4th Quarter 42.5%
Semester Final Exam 15%
Rubrics are used to assess the student’s processing skills as they relate to Physics:
Laboratory Design – concept understanding, procedures and methodology
Scientific Data – collecting, organizing and interpreting data
Laboratory Writing – format, detail, organization, grammar and spelling
Information Technology – computer skills, software application, ethical use
Calculator
A TI Nspire calculator is required for this class. If students plan to progress to AP Calculus it is strongly recommended that they purchase a TI Nspire Calculator with CAS.
Academic Honesty – Students are encouraged to help each other on problems in the homework when they get stuck. However, students are not allowed to copy assignments from another student and turn it in as their own. If a student is found to be copying, it will be handled in accordance with the school handbook. The best way to help without copying it help without showing the other student their assignment. Any use of unauthorized electronic devices during a test or quiz is considered to be academic dishonesty.
Homework
Students are encouraged to work together in a collaborative manner. However, each assignment is required to be the students own intellectual work. Any cases of students not turning in original work will be treated in accordance to the high school handbook.
Teacher: Neil Whitehead neil.whitehead@concordiahanoi.org