COURSE TITLE INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICS

COMPUTER TITLE INTRO TO PHY

COMPUTER CODE SCP302

GRADE LEVEL 9-12

LENGTH OF COURSE 36 weeks

Laboratory Requirement: Students who take this course spend a minimum of 30% of their time engaged in laboratory exercises.

Major Concepts/Content: Introduction to Physics presents concepts of physics in relation to world experiences. Information is presented in an integrated approach, linking physics with technology, social perspectives, and the history and nature of science.

The course presents a thematic approach to physics using explorations of topics. Kinematics and dynamics are introduced by studying the physics of sports and transportation systems. Communication and information technologies are used to examine wave theory, light, and sound. Electrical and thermal energy topics are studied within the context of the home, as well as on a global scale. Applications of physics to health and medicine provide opportunities to study x-rays, CT scans, and ultrasound. Scientific predictions, such as those associated with radioactive decay, Newton's first two laws, the Law of Universal Gravitation, and special relativity, are contrasted with non-scientific views in order to highlight the characteristics of good science.

Major Instructional Activities: Based on the philosophy that scientific knowledge is best acquired through inquiry, the course uses a variety of techniques to introduce, stimulate, explore, and reinforce major scientific concepts, theories, principles, and skills.

CD-ROM, laser discs, and videotapes are used to enhance teaching. Instructional activities include many laboratory experiences to help students acquire and develop concepts. Special attention is given to the mathematical treatment of data. Computers are used to collect and analyze data, along with integrated software programs, to prepare project and laboratory reports.

Major Evaluation Techniques: All aspects (e.g., ability to inquire, scientific understanding of the natural world, and understanding of the nature and utility of science) of progress in science are measured using multiple methods such as individual and group performances, projects, interviews, reports, lab reports, student-generated works, and/or conventional testing.

Essential Objectives: Upon completion of Introduction to Physics, students should be able to:

• Engage in full and partial scientific inquiries to design, conduct, and communicate scientific investigations to explore ideas about the natural world.
• Use scientific inquiry to design and conduct scientific investigations to meet a human need, make a decision, solve a human problem, or develop a product.
• Recognize and describe the interrelationship between science and technology.
• Apply the tools of technology (e.g., computers) in scientific endeavors.
• Identify qualities inherent in scientific behavior (e.g., reasoning, insight, energy, skill, and creativity).
• Discuss contributions of men and women of various social and ethnic backgrounds to science and technology.
• Apply science concepts to make decisions (weighing risks and benefits) about students' personal health and well-being.
• Assess energy transfer in the earth system and explain dynamic processes that determine global climate.
• Understand the principles of motion and forces.
• Apply principles of conservation of energy and describe the associated increase in disorder.
• Relate the interactions between matter and energy.