Tony Napodano
Course Title: Conceptual Physics H & Conceptual Physics
Section: 322-1
Objectives:
Conceptual Physics is the foundational course in the "Physics First" curriculum sequence. As such, students will become familiar with the relationship between matter and energy in preparation for 10th grade chemistry where they will make an in-depth study of matter itself and how it changes. These two courses will then prepare them for their 11th grade biology course where they will make connections between chemistry and physics as they learn about how energy and matter form and sustain life. During the year, students will be introduced to all forms of energy: mechanical, heat, light, sound, electrical and nuclear.
Methods:
The methods used to achieve the objectives include classroom lecture and discussion, laboratory experiences including computer-interface labs, overhead transparencies, and laser disc demonstrations that accompany the text.
Assessment Procedures:
Students are evaluated by tests, quizzes, laboratory reports and homework assignments.
Resources Used:
Text: Conceptual Physics , third edition by Paul Hewitt. Copyright, 2002 by Addison-Wesley. Laser discs which accompanies text. Labs from lab manual which accompanies text and teacher-generated labs.
Content and Pacing:
1st Quarter Topics: (Text Chapters: 1-14 )
The Scientific Method and Problem Solving
Mechanics
Linear Motion
Projectile Motion
Newton's Laws of Motion
Momentum
Energy
Simple Machines
Circular Motion
Rotational Motion
Gravitation
2nd Quarter Topics: (Text Chapters 25-31)
Principles of Waves
Sound
Light and Color
Reflection, Refraction and Interference
Optics
3rd Quarter Topics: (Chapters 17-24)
Properties of Matter
Atomic structure
Principles of solids
Principles of gases
Principles of liquids
Heat
Measurement of heat and temperature
Heat transfer
Phase changes
Thermodynamics
4th Quarter Topics: (Text Chapters 32-37, 39,40)
Electricity and Magnetism
Electrostatics
Electrical fields and potential
Electric current and circuits
Magnetism
Electromagnetic induction
Atomic and Nuclear Physics
Principles of Radioactivity
Transmutation of elements
Nuclear fission and fusion
Matter vs. energy relationships
Notes:
Math at the algebra level is used extensively especially in the mechanical energy portion of the course. Laboratory reports emphasize deductive reasoning and critical thinking skills.