Physics involves the study of properties and interactions of matter and energy. Problem-solving skills are stressed throughout the course as students investigate such topics as the historical development of physics, force and motion, work, heat, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, and physics applications in everyday activities.
Algebra II/Trigonometry
Essential Questions:
- How can one explain the nature and characteristics of energy and its dynamic interaction with matter?
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Quarter 1 |
Quarter 2 |
Quarter 3 |
Quarter 4 |
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Revving Up: Force & Motion (Units 1-2) |
Conservation Laws Unveiled (Units 3-4) |
Riding the Waves (Units 5-6) |
The New Frontier: Exploring Modern Physics (Units 7-8) |
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Focus of the Story |
We begin by extending our understanding of motion and force from Physical Science by first qualitatively describing motion and then solving one and two dimensional linear motion problems. We then solve more in-depth problems involving force, mass, and acceleration, and learn to apply Newton’s Laws of Motion at a deeper level. |
We then focus on the concepts of work, energy, power, and momentum. Again, we extend upon the introduction of these topics from Physical Science with mathematical representations. In this course, we learn that conservation of energy and conservation of momentum are two of the most fundamental concepts in physics and apply to all interactions. |
We then build upon our understanding of motion and interactions by studying circular motion, waves, and optics. This leads us on a journey of applying fundamental concepts to objects that travel in circles and to examine that waves can transfer energy and momentum. |
Our journey concludes by studying electricity and magnetism, and topics in modern physics. We do this by exploring the nature of fields and applying Ohm’s law to series and parallel circuits. In modern physics we discover the limitations of Newtonian physics by exploring the extremes of small size or high speeds. |
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Transfer Goals |
Ask questions driven by curiosity on a given event or process in the natural world based on observations or data. (Thinkers and Inquirers) Analyze and interpret data to determine its validity or usefulness, identify patterns and relationships, and/or draw conclusions. (Thinkers and Inquirers; Knowledgeable) Plan and carry out investigations or use a design process to answer a question or solve a problem. (Problem Solvers and Value Creators) |
Analyze and interpret data to determine its validity or usefulness, identify patterns and relationships, and/or draw conclusions. (Thinkers and Inquirers; Knowledgeable) Define problems through research into what is already known and think creatively about what solutions might be possible (Problem Solvers and Value Creators; Personally and Socially Responsible) |
Plan and carry out investigations or use a design process to answer a question or solve a problem. (Problem Solvers and Value Creators) Ask questions driven by curiosity on a given event or process in the natural world based on observations or data. (Thinkers and Inquirers) |
Ask questions driven by curiosity on a given event or process in the natural world based on observations or data. (Thinkers and Inquirers) |
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Learning Targets |
I can solve problems involving displacement, velocity, acceleration, and time in one and two dimensions I can use Newton’s Laws of Motion to predict the effect of motion on objects. |
I can investigate conservation of energy in a mechanical system in which energy is transformed from one form into another while also using mathematical representations. I can investigate conservation of momentum in a mechanical system in which momentum is transferred between objects while also using mathematical representations. |
I can describe the forces involved in circular motion and solve related problems. I can model and use mathematical representations to describe the relationships among the frequency, wavelength, and speed of waves. |
I can develop and use a model of two objects interacting through electric or magnetic fields to illustrate the forces between objects and the changes in energy of the objects due to the interaction. I can compare and contrast classical physics and modern physics at the extremes of speed and size. |