Physics Course Syllabus

Course Name:  Physics

I Course Information
Course Number: 4332
Level: Honors
Department: Science

II Course Description
Prerequisite: credit or concurrent enrollment in honors algebra 2/trig or CP precalculus
Open to: Sophomores and Juniors
Length: Year
Credit: 1
Summary: This course is designed for the extremely self-motivated student that is looking for a challenging science course, and who will pursue further study of Physics, other sciences, medicine, or engineering. The student in this class has a complete grasp of algebra and can use geometry and trigonometry with little review. This course is a study of the traditional subject matter of classical physics: motion, energy, heat, sound, wave motion, optics, electricity and magnetism. The emphasis in this courseis on the mathematical and theoretical development of physical principles. Problem-solving and critical thinking are essential parts of this course. The principles and concepts are studied using algebraic, geometric, and trigonometric methods of analysis as well as laboratory experiments and demonstrations. This course is presented at a level comparable to many first year introductory college courses and uses a college textbook. This course satisfies the prerequisite for Advanced Placement Physics and Engineering Physics.

III Course Goals
1. Use inquiry, reasoning and critical thinking skills to assess and analyze physical phenomena.
2. Understand and apply the sceintific 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
College Physics, by: Serway & Faughn

V Course Outline
First Semester
Units of Instruction:
Intro to Physics and 1D motion
1D Force and Motion
Vectors
2D Forces
2D Motion and Projectiles
Work and Energy
Momentum and Collisions

Major Assessments: unit tests and quizzes

Second Semester Units of Instruction and Assessments:
Units of Instruction:
Periodic Motion
Waves
Sound
Geometrical Optics (Reflection/Refraction)
Wave Optics (Dual nature of light)
Electrostatics
Circuits
Magnetism

Major Assessments: unit tests and quizzes

 

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