AP PHYSICS 1
Course Syllabus
COURSE INTRODUCTION
AP Physics 1 is an algebra based course in general physics. General physics topics
presented during the course closely follow those outlined by the College Board and also
mirrors an introductory level university physics course.
AP Physics 1 is organized around seven big ideas that bring together the fundamental
science principles and theories of general physics. These big ideas are intended to
encourage students to think about physics concepts as interconnected pieces of a puzzle.
The solution to the puzzle is how the real world around them actually works. The
students will participate in inquiry based explorations of these topics to gain a more
conceptual understanding of these physics concepts. Students will spend less of their
time in traditional formula based learning and more of their effort will be directed to
developing critical thinking and reasoning skills.
TEXT
Physics Principles with Applications 7th Edition, Douglas C. Giancoli, Pearson Prentice
Hall (2014)
BIG IDEAS FOR AP PHYSICS 1
Big Idea 1: Objects and systems have properties such as mass and charge. Systems may
have internal structure.
Big Idea 2: Fields existing in space can be used to explain interactions.
Big Idea 3: The interactions of an object with other objects can be described by forces.
Big Idea 4: Interactions between systems can result in changes in those systems.
Big Idea 5: Changes that occur as a result of interactions are constrained by conservation
laws.
Big Idea 6: Waves can transfer energy and momentum from one location to another
without the permanent transfer of mass and serve as a mathematical model for the
description of other phenomena.
Big Idea 7: The mathematics of probability can be used to describe the behavior of
complex systems and to interpret the behavior of quantum mechanical systems.
TOPICS
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Kinematics
Dynamics: Newton’s laws
Circular motion and universal law of gravitation
Simple harmonic motion: simple pendulum and mass-spring systems
Impulse, linear momentum, and conservation of linear momentum: collisions
Work, energy, and conservation of energy
Rotational motion: torque, rotational kinematics and energy, rotational dynamics, and
conservation of angular momentum
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Electrostatics: electric charge and electric force
DC circuits: resistors only
Mechanical waves and sound
GRADING
Grades will be assigned based on the percentage of points accumulated through exams,
quizzes, labs, homework, projects, and various other exercises during the semester.
EXAMS AND QUIZZES (60%)
Exams will follow each chapter with a comprehensive final at the end of each semester.
Each exam will be worth 100 points and each final will be worth 200 points. Every test
will be formatted to simulate the format of AP Physics 1 test given at the end of the class.
Quizzes will be given on a regular basis. Quizzes will be formatted to simulate the free
response portion of the AP Physics 1 test given at the end of the class. Quizzes will be
both announced and unannounced.
LABORATORY (25%)
There is an extensive laboratory component in AP Physics 1. All labs will involve the
manipulation of give equipment to explore a concept in a real world setting. Many labs
will involve the use of sensors and computer simulations. There will be labs that will
involve either and opened questions or problem. These labs will require the need to
design an experiment with given equipment to collect the data need to address the
question at hand. All labs will be recorded in a laboratory notebook for future reference.
1. Graph matching (motion sensor)
2. Accelerated motion (motion sensor)
3. Determine g on an incline (motion sensor)
4. Picket fence free fall (photo gate)
5. Projectile motion (photo gate)
6. Bull’s eye (projectile motion)
7. Force and acceleration
8. Force and equilibrium
9. Atwood’s machine (smart pulley system)
10. Static and kinetic friction (force sensor)
11. Momentum, energy, and collisions (force sensor)
12. Impulse and momentum (force sensor)
13. Elastic collisions
14. Work and energy relationships
15. Centripetal force
16. Rotation equilibrium
17. Simple harmonic motion (motion sensor)
18. Pendulum periods (photo gate)
19. Ohm’s Law (current and voltage probe)
20. Series and Parallel Circuits (virtual lab)
21. Speed of sound (microphone sensor)
HOMEWORK (15%)
Homework will be assigned on a regular basis to reinforce classroom learning. All
problems will be in preparation for the AP Physics B exam. Each problem has been
selected to reinforce a specific concept and increase the student’s problem solving skills.
MAKE UP WORK
1. No make-up work will be allowed.
2. All assignments are due at the beginning of class on the posted due date.
3. In the case of excused absences, all make up work must be completed and turned
in according to school policy.
4. Exams will be completed on the first day you return unless other arrangements are
made in advance.
5. If a laboratory exercise is missed it must be made up outside of regular class time.