Prerequisites: C in Chemistry and C in Algebra II or Integrated Math III and science teacher recommendation.

Physics is concerned with discovering the universal laws that govern matter, energy, space, and time. Topics include kinematics, Newton's laws of motion, vectors, circular motion, gravity, and the three great conservation laws: mass, energy and momentum. We study the scientific revolution - and follow its progress forward in time through the work of Nicolaus Copernicus, Tycho Brahe, Johannes Kepler, Galileo Galilei and Isaac Newton. We look into thermodynamics; wave motion; sound; light as waves; geometric optics; electricity and magnetism; and modern physics topics such as relativity, nuclear physics, and quantum mechanics. Further topics may be added as time allows.

Conceptual Physics incorporates traditional lectures, demonstrations, lab experiments, at-home build projects (e.g. catapults), interactive computer labs, and some viewing of science television programs. Each chapter makes use of algebra; a few chapters use basic trigonometry. However, we focus more on concepts than on detailed problem solving. As such, this course is less mathematically demanding than the honors physics course. This class is designed for seniors. Juniors may be admitted if they meet the prerequisites, a science teacher recommends it, and scheduling demands warrant such a placement.

Course Credit: 1
Duration: Full Year
Prerequisites for Grade 10: B- Honors Chemistry or B in Chemistry and B in Pre-Calculus with science teacher recommendation

Honors Physics investigates a wide range of physical principles and phenomena including mechanics, wave theory, sound, light, electromagnetic radiation, and electronics. In addition, selected topics on the modern frontiers of physics research will be explored including astrophysics, elementary particle physics and relativity theory.

As an honors elective, high levels of self-motivation and intellectual curiosity are expected of all students. Normally a junior or senior level course, the elective is suggested for students completing Honors Chemistry and who are simultaneously taking Calculus. A rigorous approach involving theory, problem solving, laboratory experiments, computer simulations, and interactive multimedia is used.

Advanced algebra and basic trigonometry are often used in problem solving. Honors Physics is more mathematically and technically based than Conceptual Physics and includes a balance of text, discussion, laboratory work and demonstration activities. Project work beyond the regular classroom is expected.

Course Credit: 1
Duration: Full Year
Prerequisites: A in Honors Pre-calculus or B+ in AP Calculus and a strong recommendation from both the current math and science teacher.

AP Physics B provides instruction in each of the five content areas outlined by the College Board for the physics B curriculum: Newtonian Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Physics, Electricity and Magnetism, Waves and Optics, and Atomic and Nuclear Physics. Since AP Physics B is a second year course, incoming students should have had a solid introduction to Newtonian mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism; this is usually achieved by mastering 9th grade Honors Physical Science II. Using this as a starting point, we go through the major topic areas in detail, reviewing basic concepts and adding more complex ones. Labs supplement the work done the year before, with follow up questions being the starting point for inquiry-based labs.

Course Credits: 1 credit
Duration: Full Year
Prerequisites: A in Honors Pre-calculus or B+ in AP Calculus and a strong recommendation from both the current math and science teacher.

This course will run only if student enrollment and staff availability allows.

This course is a rigorous study of physics using algebra, trigonometry, geometry and calculus. We use derivatives and integrals, and dot and cross product vector analysis. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, uniform circular motion, work and energy, linear momentum, rotational kinematics and dynamics, angular momentum, gravitation, simple harmonic motion and oscillations. After the AP test in Spring, topics in electricity and magnetism may be included.

Since AP Physics C is a second year course, incoming students should have had a solid introduction to Newtonian mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism; this is usually achieved by mastering 9th grade Honors Physical Science II. The course is designed for students with excellent math skills who envision a career in science, engineering, medicine or other technical fields. Exposure to calculus is an essential prerequisite for AP Physics "C".