Prerequisite
Biology, Algebra I and II, Trigonometry
Textbook/resources:
∙Text: Copies of readings and problems will be distributed from The Physics Tutorial from GBS.
∙Internet: The class website can be accessed at www.stephensteach.com, the class newsgroup can be accessed at www.nicenet.org, and the class wiki is linked to the class website. It is very important to remember your login name and password for the class newsgroup so write it down! More information will follow concerning online homework problems and submissions.
∙Other resources will include various textbook selections, newspaper articles, scientific journals and other websites. All material will be updated and linked on the class website.
Objectives/goals
Upon completion of this class, students will have a better understanding of the universe thanks to their understanding of the laws, concepts, knowledge, and analytical tools of physics. Additional goals are to:
- Develop critical thinking skills and move towards autonomous learning
- Understand, describe, and apply the procedures of physics and understand their limitations
- Apply scientific principles to solve “real life” problems
- Understand the world around you through the development of inquiry and interests in physics
Class Rule
- Do your best
Required Classroom Materials
- Science Lab Book (Quad notebook)
- USB Drive (aka flash drive, thumb drive, memory stick, etc)
- A Gmail Account
Grading
Your grade will be based upon the following:
| Category |
Percent |
| Labwork/Fieldwork |
25% |
| Tests/Quizzes |
25% |
| In Class/Projects |
25% |
| HW/Participation |
25% |
| A |
A- |
B+ |
B |
B- |
C+ |
C |
C- |
D* |
F* |
| 93-100% |
90-92% |
87-89% |
83-86% |
80-82% |
77-79% |
73-76% |
70-72% |
60-69% |
<60% |
*Ds or Fs earn 0 credits
Late work Policy/Redo Policy
Work is accepted on time with no penalty. Work is accepted after the due date, but within the same unit with a 20% penalty. No late work from a particular unit is accepted after the unit test without a 50% penalty.
Laboratory reports, homework, and projects that are turned in complete and on time may be revised up until the end of the unit in which it was assigned. Tests may not be retaken unless extenuating circumstances apply. In this case a formal request may be written (1-2 pages typed) explaining why you did not perform up to your capability, how you prepared differently, and why you should be granted a retake.
Example: During unit 3 Conservation of Momentum and Energy, students were assigned The Momentum and Collision Lab. Student A turned in a perfect lab report on the due date and earned 100/100. Student B turned in a perfect lab report after the due date, but before the unit 3 test and received 80/100. Student C turned in a perfect lab report after the unit 3 test and received 50/100. Student D turned in a complete lab report on time, but received 75/100 due to mistakes. Student D then revised the lab report and turned in the revision before the unit 3 test and received 100/100.
Make Up Work
Students who miss school due to excused absences are alotted the number of missed days to make up the assigned work. For example if you miss one day of class due to an illness, you have one extra day past the due date to turn in your work. If you have a presentation or your group is depending on you, don't miss school unless previously approved!
Absence/Tardy Policy
For every 5 unexcused absences or 10 tardies in a semester your grade drops one letter. If you are planning on being absent for a family vacation, college visit, etc, let me know in advance complete your make up work and have fun.
YOU are responsible for making up the work you miss during tardies/absences. I will not remind you.
Cheating
Cheating will earn you a zero on the assignment/test on which you cheated. If you purposefully give away your work to cheaters you will also receive a zero. No make up work will be given. Often times it is more difficult to cheat than to learn. Just learn, it is more fun.
Letter of Rec Policy
Letters of recommendation are an important component of college admissions and I love writing letters of recommendation for students who excel in my classes. However, these letters do take time and must be revised so that I can make you sound as awesome as you are. Therefore I have developed some guidelines:
- Ask me in person.
- Give me at least 7 full days of notice before the due date.
- Complete a one page resume in which you answer the questions I am asked and include personal highlights you want me to hit upon.
- Give me all of the paperwork with self-addressed and stamped envelopes.
- Don't ask me if you have proven unworthy in my classes.
Office Hours
- Monday: 3:30-4:00 PM
- Wednesday 7:30-8:00 AM
- Friday 7:30-8:00AM and 3:30-4:00 PM
or make an appointment two days ahead of time
Finally
The world depends upon science to understand itself, for inventions that improve our lives and solutions to our biggest problems. It's no surprise that science is a challenging subject for many students. From the first week, it builds new concepts on previous ideas, concepts, and discoveries. Do not get behind in class; ask for help, it is your respnsibility! I expect students to work together cooperatively as we begin and continue this adventure. Respect for everyone in the class (students and teacher alike) make the learning easier for all concerned. The bottom line: I will try to make the class interesting; you must be a responsible learner.
