Welcome to Physics 1 K/H! I am so delighted to have you joining the physics family. Look forward to a year of really getting to know the universe around you. There are a few questions that you probably have:
What IS physics?
Well, Physics is the study of matter and energy. Because everything in the universe is made of matter and/or energy, I like to say that physics is the ultimate science. Physics is definitely the science for people who keep asking, "Why?"
2. Is physics really as hard as my friends say?
Hmm... To be perfectly honest, yes and no. Sounds like an answer a lawyer would give, huh? :) Physics is totally different from other sciences that you have recently studied. That fact alone makes it difficult for many people. For example:
There is very little memorization of vocabulary in physics.
You are given an equation sheet on every exam. I suggest you print your own to use as you do your homework.
Labs consist of solving unique problems instead of verifying results previously stated in a text book.
You cannot procrastinate homework until the night before the test and expect to be successful. The brain simply does not work that way.
You might have been successful in the past with using this technique, but that was because you were simply regurgitating memorized information. To solve problems, you must deeply understand concepts so that you can use that information and transfer it to new situations.
3. Should I be in K level?
Past success in K level Biology and Chemistry is no guarantee of success in K level Physics. The courses are significantly different. The best indication of success lies in your past math grades. Students who have an A average in Algebra II typically do well in Physics K.
The language of physics is calculus. While this course is non-calculus based, there is heavy reliance on pre-calculus and algebra. Your algebra and basic math skills must be strong for you to be successful in Physics K.
If in doubt, talk to your teacher. We are totally willing to work with you and get certain skills up to speed if you are willing to work as well.
Chapter 12 Notes
(doc file)
This is not the normal style of my notes. Rather it is borrowed, but does contain lots of wonderful picture examples of wave interactions.
doc file: You need the Microsoft Word program, a free Microsoft Word viewer, or a program that can import Word files in order to view this file. To learn more about the free Microsoft Word Viewer, visit the Microsoft Word website.
avi file: This is a video file and can be opened with Windows Media Player. Download the free Windows Media Player for PC or Macintosh.
Work and Energy Here is a website that has lessons on work and energy and even has practice questions to test your understanding! A "MUST" see!!
Virtual Circuits lab Play around with basic circuits. Use the ammeter and voltmeter to see if you really understand what is going on.
Air Track Virtual Lab This is the Air Track used to do both collisions labs. The labs are under the documents section of this page.
Air Track Virtual Lab Worksheet You can print this and fill it in OR you can copy it into a Word document, edit it, and e-mail it to me. Gotta love technology!
Skateboard Science Want to know all of the cool physics behind the trickiest skateboarding moves? Enter if you dare... to become an awesome skateboarder that is!
Virtual Billiards Explore the world of conservation of momentum and have a little fun, too!
Newton's Cradle This is dedicated to all of you who LOVE to hear the clack-clack of my Newton's Cradle.
