Who should take Physics?  Juniors or seniors that do well in math and science and who are interested in learning the physical principles that explain everyday occurrences.  Officially, students must have satisfactorily completed chemistry and satisfactorily completed, or be currently enrolled in, advanced algebra.

What topics are covered in Physics?  In general, Physics is the study of matter and energy.  In non-technical terms, students will study the motion and movement of different stuff.  More specifically, we cover:

• Units and Problem solving
• Kinematics: Description of motion
• Motions in Two Dimensions
• Force and Motion
• Work and Energy
• Momentum and Collisions
• Circular Motion and Gravitation
• Rotational Motion and Equilibrium
• Vibrations and Waves
• Sound
• Light and Electromagnetic waves
• Color and Thin Film Interference
• Diffraction, Polarization, Reflection and Refraction of Light
• Mirrors and Lenses
• Electrical Charge, Forces, and Fields
• Electric Potential, Energy, and Capacitance
• Electric Current
• Electric Circuit Basics

Students will be asked to work in groups and individually to test certain physics principles.  During the investigations, students will utilize math skills and computers to analyze data.

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How are grades determined? All assignments are given point values based on the quantity and difficulty of the work.  Each assignment can be categorized into one of the following types of assignments.  Each category is then weighted according to the chart below to determine the final grade:

Because of this weighting system, it can be difficult for students to keep track of their own grades.  To minimize this effect, and in an attempt to keep both students and parents informed of the student's progress, I post the current grades online at least once a week.

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