AP Physics C Course Syllabus

Course Name: AP Physics C                                           

I Course Information
Course Number: 4522
Level: Honors
Department: Science  

II Course Description
Prerequisite: CP or Honors Physics and Honors Algebra 2/Trig or CP Pre-Calculus
Open to: Sophomore, Junior, and Senior
Length: Year
Credit: 1
Summary: Advanced Placement Physics C is a college level course designed for students taking the College Board Advanced Placement C Examination.  This is a calculus based physics course that emphasizes the development of advanced physics concepts in mechanics, electricity, and magnetism and their applications in solving advanced physics problems.  Students who plan to major in physics, astronomy, mathematics, or any type of engineering are strongly encouraged to take this course.  Laboratory work is included in this course and a university level textbook is used. 

III Course Goals
1.  Use inquiry, reasoning and critical thinking skills to assess and analyze physical phenomena.
2.  Understand and apply the scientific process skills to answer questions and solve problems within a physical context.
3.  Use collaborative groups to conduct scientific investigations, share ideas, and present research findings. 
4.  Identify, understand, and appreciate the connection between physical concepts, phenomena, and applications within the everyday universe.
5.  Provide opportunities for students to utilize educational institutions, programs, and technologies. 

IV Textbooks and Materials
University Physics, by: Young & Freedman

V  Course Outline
First Semester
            Units of Instruction:
            I.          Motion along A Straight Line
            II.          Motion in Two Dimensions
            III.         Newton's Laws
            IV.        Work and Energy
            V.        Momentum and Impulse
            VI.        Rotation
            VII.       Gravitation
            VIII.      Periodic Motion

            Major Assessments: unit tests and quizzes

Second Semester Units of Instruction and Assessments:
            Units of Instruction:
            IX.        Electric Charges and Electric Fields
            X.        Gauss' Law
            XI.        Electric Potential
            XII.       Capacitance
            XIII.      Current, Resistance, EMF
            XIV.     DC Circuits
            XV.      Magnetic Fields and Forces
            XVI.     Sources of Magnetic Fields
            XVII.    Induction

            Major Assessments: unit tests and quizzes

(Parents and students: please consult individual teachers for grading policies, extra credit info, class procedures, etc.)