Course Overview:

In this online Honors Physics course, students begin their exploration of physics by reviewing the International System of Units (SI), scientific notation, and significant digits. They then learn to describe and analyze motion in one and two dimensions. Students learn about gravity and Newton’s laws of motion before concluding the course with an examination of circular motion, energy, and simple machines. Students apply mathematical concepts such as graphing and trigonometry in order to solve physics problems.

The course continues with the student’s exploration of mechanics while also guiding them through some other important topics of physics. Students begin by exploring simple harmonic motion, wave properties, and optics. Students then learn the basics of thermodynamics and fluids. Afterwards, the students explore the principles of electricity and magnetism. Finally, students explore the area of physics known as Modern Physics, which includes topics such as the photoelectric effect, nuclear science, and relativity. 

This is a trig-based course. It is assumed you know and can use trigonometry. Students will complete additional coursework to receive honors credit.

Semester 1:  

In Semester A, they will discover that physics utilizes knowledge of physical properties to address theoretical questions, while technology provides practical problem-solving methods. The importance of measurement is emphasized, as it assigns numerical values to physical quantities. The course explores the rules governing the motion of objects and the role of forces in changing an object’s motion. The interrelationship between force, work, and energy is explored, highlighting their connection in describing natural phenomena. Additionally, the concept of momentum, which represents inertia in motion, is studied.

Semester 2: 

In Semester B, students delve into further enduring understandings. They learn that waves are disturbances that transfer energy without transferring matter. The relationship between temperature and the internal energy of matter is examined, as heating increases the speed of atoms and the substance’s internal energy. The buoyant force, responsible for floating or sinking, is equal to the weight of the displaced fluid. The flow of electricity is determined by the movement of electrons, their rate of movement, and the characteristics of the material carrying the electrons. The course also covers the concept that electrical charge can induce magnetism. Students will discover that light possesses both wave and particle properties. Lastly, the course explores the concept of radioactive decay, emphasizing that unstable nuclei will decay over time and emit radiation.

Required Materials: See list here

Materials listed should be acquired by the student prior to beginning the work in the course.