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AP Physics Syllabus

Name of Course:    Physics – AP

 

Grade Level(s):      11^th & 12^th

 

Instructor:            Mr. McClintock

 

Course Description:

Physics is the study of energy and how it affects matter.  The course material is presented in 100 lessons. Each lesson introduces one or two basic concepts which is followed by a problem set of 20 questions.  The first several questions reinforce the lesson.  The remaining questions reinforce previous lessons.  This approach constantly reviews the objectives of the course.  Experiments are used to augment lessons and introduce laboratory techniques.  Advance placement credit will be awarded on the student’s GPA as dictated by school policy.  The advance placement test is optional. However, a final standardized test is required.Course Objectives:

 

1.     The student will demonstrate an understanding of the basic concepts of physics.

2.     The student will utilize problem solving techniques and skills.

3.     When presented with an experimental problem, the student will form hypotheses, analyze data, and interpret results.

4.     The student will demonstrate an appreciation of how physics is an integral part of our technological society.  The student will also show an awareness of the career opportunities presented through physics.

Units covered in the course and major topics:

1.     Mechanics (motion)                                          5.     Fluids

2.     Heat                                                                6.     Nuclear physics

3.     Waves                                                             7.     Relativity

4.     Electricity

 

Text(s) and Supplemental Material:   Physics: An Incremental Development, Saxon, 1993

 

Formal Evaluation (final test/assessment description):   Final exam over all lessons.

 

Unit assessments:   Tests will be administered over every four lessons.  Experiments and problem solutions  will be credited.

 

 

Student/Classroom Requirements:

1.       Students are expected to be prepared and ready for work each class.  Books, pencils and paper are the student’s responsibility.  If a student is unexcused tardy, that student will owe an equal amount of time to this classroom before or after school the next day.  Failure to make time up promptly will result in detention plus the requirement of making time up in the classroom as stated above.

 

2.     All students are to read the “Laboratory Safety Contract”.  The student and their parent/guardian are to both sign and return one copy of the contract to the instructor.  All students must show mastery of these safety rules by passing a “Safety Quiz” with an 80%.  If the student does not pass they will be allowed to retest on the next school day; unlimited attempts, but only one per day.  The student will NOT be permitted to participate in lab work until all requirements are met.  Work missed will not receive credit.

 

3.     Conduct will follow the four “Self-Discipline Rules” posted in the classroom and the “Laboratory Safety Contract” issued to each student.

 

4.     Students are required to keep a science notebook.  A 3-ring binder is recommended.  This notebook is to contain solutions to lesson problem sets, lab reports, and notes.

 

5.     All work is to be done in pencil.  Work is to be shown for all problems.

 

6.     Work is due when assigned. Late work will be severely down-graded and after one week, not accepted.

 

7.    The use of all electronic devices for any purpose other than those specifically  assigned by the instructor is strictly forbidden.  Failure to comply with this policy will result in the immediate confiscation of the electronic device and additional consequences according to school policy. 

 

8.     A scientific calculator is recommended for use in this course.  Please put your name on your calculator.

 

10.   If a student needs help or added lab time, they should feel free to contact the instructor for assistance.  Additional instruction, work, lab or study time can be arranged.  Questions are strongly encouraged!  Remember, this is your grade so be vocal!!