AP Physics
Purpose:
There are three major goals of the AP physics course:
1. To expand upon the knowledge of first year physics
2. To prepare you for college physics
3. To prepare you for the AP test (Monday, May 9, 2016 - Afternoon session)
Grades/GPA: The AP course has the same grading scale as pre-AP physics.
%
Grade
GPA
90+
A
6.0
80-89
B
5.0
75-79
C
4.0
70-74
D
3.0
69
F
0.0
Grade Breakdown:
Tests (Major) - 60%
Labs/Quizzes - 25%
Homework (Daily) - 15%
All tests will include problems and multiple choice items from previous AP tests. These may very
well include problems from the homework and/or ones discussed in class.
Labs are important in this class for two reasons:
1) They allow for students to see physics concepts in action. This is valuable for the visual or
hands-on learners.
2) Every AP physics test (1, 2 & C) will include a lab-based problem in which the student must
design or describe an experiment to accomplish a certain task. Performing experiments
during class is the best way to prepare for such a problem.
Homework will be collected every Friday for that week. (This day may change due to tests,
schedule conflicts, R/G day etc.) We may not have time to go over assignments each day. If this
policy proves to be ineffective because students are taking advantage of it, however, we will
revert to a more traditional homework policy. Do not wait until Thursday class to start your
homework and then "leech" off others. Not only is this unethical, but you will be hurting
yourself for tests and, most importantly, the AP test. Remember, most tests will include former
homework problems, thus it would behoove you to work through the problems yourself.
(continued on back)
Physics 1/2 &C - What's the difference?
Both
Cover mechanics
Cover electricity and
magnetism (E/M)
PHYS 1/2
Trigonometry-based (no
calculus)
MANY other topics, including
fluids, thermodynamics, optics,
gases, nuclear chemistry, etc.
PHYS C
Calculus-based
Mechanics and E/M covered
more in depth.
Supplies and Books
Each student should have a notebook with folders to keep notes and assignments. A calculator is
also necessary, any graphing calculator TI-83 and higher will work.
In first year physics we did not use our textbook extensively. We will do so in AP physics, so
please bring your book to class everyday. AP Physics C will use the book authored by Tipler. If
you would like electronic access to the Tipler book: http://ebooks.bfwpub.com/physse6e.php
Please bring in a flash drive or CD to get solutions for the textbook and former AP problems that
you will get for homework. Another resource available to you for the textbook is Cramster:
http://www.cramster.com/physics-for-scientists-and-engineers-6th-solutions-611
HELP
AP physics should be a fun course, but it can be a challenging one as well. Please feel free to
ask questions. I have a school email address you can use to contact me. (Parents may use it as
well.)
mdavies@conroeisd.net
I recommend that you form a small study group (2-4 people) for physics homework and
test preparation. Many students have found this to be helpful in physics, calculus and other
subjects. Groupwork will be encouraged in labs and review days. People learn best by
teaching others.
I will also be available during the school’s evening tutorials from 5:30-7:30 PM on Tuesdays in
room 105 (the SCOTS room).
I do not expect discipline to be a problem. “That's all I have to say about that.” - Forrest Gump