Daniel Boone High School
Birdsboro, PA
Advanced Placement Physics B
Instructor: Mr. Sid Harwood.
Introduction
This syllabus serves to give students and parents a better understanding of course procedures and
grading. Remember, our goal with Honors Physics/Advanced Placement Physics B (APB) is to enable
students to score a 4 or a 5 on the AP Physics B Exam in May. This achievement can and will save the
students thousands of dollars in tuition, fees, and books for a college level, algebra based physics course.
As a result, this course is designed to maximize students’ preparation and their likelihood of success.
Certain practices and procedures will be adopted from the commencement of the course in order to
ensure student success.
Assessment and Grading
AP Physics is very likely the first course in the students’ career where memorization is not the
most valuable tool for success. AP Physics C seeks to develop the student not only in terms of physics
content knowledge, but also in terms of cognitive ability. In short AP Physics B is very challenging. As
a result, many students who are accustomed to high grades in other classes find their grades suffering
during the first quarter of the year. However, once the students begin to develop their skill and
conceptual understanding, grades statistically climb for the remainder of the year. Students must realize
that they will be investing a considerable amount of time and effort in preparation and study for this
course.
Students’ quarterly grades will be determined using the following table below.
Assessment
Exams
Web Assign Homework
Labs
Multiple Choice Conceptual Exams
Hardbound Composition Book
Percentage
40
30
10
10
10
Grading Scale
92 – 100 = A
83 – 91 = B
74 – 82 = C
65 – 73 = D
65 = F
The most important homework, assigned here and now, is to read every chapter prior to the
lecture on the material. This course is very high paced. You will not succeed without becoming
familiar with the chapter content prior to lecture. Homework will be assigned and graded using an
online program known as Web Assign. Students will be given a set of problems. They will work the
problems out on paper and submit the answers through Web Assign. If their answer is wrong, then they
will be told immediately. They will then rework the problem until it is either correct or until the due
date and time. While working the problems for computer submission, the students will work on a draft
copy. The instructor will then assign specific homework problems that must be done in the designated
formant in the students’ hardbound composition book. Prior to homework submission, students will be
required to prepare a formal submission copy in a hardbound composition notebook for review by the
instructor. This copy must be in pencil, very neat, with all “universal equations” and answers boxed.
This copy will provide the students with a durable copy that will serve as a resource later in their
academic careers.
The End of Chapter Multiple Choice Exam will cover the major concepts of the chapter material
from the most recent chapter and may review material from chapters previously covered during the year.
However, most of these exam questions will be from the most recent chapter covered. Students will be
given a series of multiple choice questions. They will have a predetermined amount of time to solve the
multiple choice problems during class time.
Weekly/Chapter Schedule
The time schedule that must be adhered to in order to ensure that students are prepared for the
AP Physics B Exam with adequate review time is given below. This schedule is the typical schedule for
each chapter covered during the course but may be modified as determined by the instructor.
Day
1
2
3
4
5
Task
Direct instruction of the material covered in the chapter.
Direct instruction of the material covered in the chapter.
Instructor led conceptual exercises intended to gain a better understanding of chapter concepts.
If time permits, then there will also be problem solving sessions intended to aid students.
Problem solving sessions intended to aid students. All unit homework should be attempted prior
to this day.
In Class Conceptual Multiple Choice and problem solving Exam. Problem solving sessions
intended to aid students. All unit homework should be attempted prior to this day.
A Laboratory used to enhance students conceptual and problem solution skills will be conducted
on the appropriate day of the schedule.
Advanced Placement Physics B
Course Description: AP Physics B is a national algebra-based course in physics. The content and
curriculum for this course is specified by the College Board. This course is equivalent to the algebra
based, introductory Physics course for university students who are not majoring in either engineering,
mathematics, or the sciences. The emphasis is on understanding of the concepts and skills and on using
concepts and formulas to solve problems. Laboratory work is an integral part of this course. Students
will also engage in guided inquiry throughout the course in order to develop their understanding of the
course material and to develop their critical thinking skills. Students work together in small groups in
order to solve problems and to enhance student learning.
AP Physics B is a year long physics course. The course will focus on a study of Newtonian
Mechanics, a study of Electricity and Magnetism, a study of Fluid Mechanics/Thermal Physics, Waves
and Optics, and Atomic and Nuclear Physics. The beginning of the fourth quarter will be used as an in
depth student centered review of the course prior to the AP Physics B Exam in May.
Course Objectives: By following along with the materials provided and putting forth an effort, the
student will accomplish the following goals:
1. Gain an understanding of the world in which we live through the study of mechanics,
electricity and magnetism, Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Physics, Waves and Optics, and
Atomic and Nuclear Physics.
2. Utilize algebra, geometry, and trigonometry in the study of the applicable physics concepts.
3. Diagram systems by means of physical structures and/or vector diagrams.
4. Compute and predict the results of physical systems and interactions.
5. Gain an understanding of the “language of mathematics.”
Textbook: Giancoli Physics, 6th edition, Pearson Prentice Hall, ISBN 978-0-13-607302-4.
Calculators: Calculators may be used on homework and during examinations. Calculators shall be at
the ready at all times during classes as the student will be actively providing answers to examples
presented by the instructor on the board. A TI-83 or higher model is required for this course.
Hard Bound Composition Book: This book is required and will be periodically checked as a part of the
homework grade. All specified homework and exams must be worked out neatly in this book using a
pencil (no pens).
Homework: Homework will be assigned in order to guide the student in developing the skills needed in
order to pass the exams associated with this course. You cannot pass this course if you do not do the
homework.
Course Procedures: This class will employ lecture, guided inquiry, in class problem solving, and
laboratories in order to promote students’ understanding of the physics studied. Students will spend a
minimum of 20% of instructional time engaged in laboratory work.
One of the key goals of this course is the development of a learning community within the
classroom. As a result, at least 40% the time used to cover a particular unit will be dedicated to time in
which the students will work together on the assignments and the tasks given for that day. Additionally,
at least 20% of the time used to cover a particular unit will be used as guided inquiry as explained
below. The intentions of developing this learning community is to develop students academically, to aid
the student in developing critical` thinking skills, and to promote the importance of using peers, as well
as the instructor, as a resource for success.
One way of promoting student success in college is by joining or forming a peer group which
works together in order to be successful in a college course. In this class, students will follow the
“Three Peer Rule” before addressing questions to the instructor. This rule requests that students consult
at least three peers concerning a homework or lab question prior to consulting the instructor. By doing
so the group may be able to assist each other in determining the answer. This action helps students to
develop critical thinking skills rather than a reliance on an instructor as an “answer man.” If the students
are unable to discover the answer together, then they will approach the instructor together as a group so
that all group members, through the guided inquiry process, may determine the answer to the question
thereby better serving the needs of multiple members of the class simultaneously. Students are
encouraged to use all resources in the room including the whiteboard, classroom library, and internet
access in order to enhance the quality of the students’ learning.
In order to better facilitate student learning, this course will utilize WebAssign for homework
assignments and exams. WebAssign is a powerful online instructional tool for faculty and students. It
delivers an automatic grading solution for math and science courses. Additionally, it reinforces student
learning through practice and instantaneous feedback. As a result, it is important that you quickly
become acquainted with the course management procedures. In order to be successful Honors
Physics/AP Physics B, you will need to follow the procedures listed below.
1. Read the current chapter well in advance, and familiarize your self with the formulas and concepts
discussed in the chapter.
2. Form small peer support groups. Exchange email addresses and phone numbers. Due to the
extensive amount of material covered in this course, these peer groups will prove to be invaluable to
your success.
3. Begin the homework problem sets well in advance of their due dates.
4. Have specific questions ready upon entering the classroom.
5. Computer access is provided during class and will be utilized on a daily basis. Students should also
have a computer and access to the internet from home.
The lecture portion of this course will not just concentrate on the chapter text. It will focus
extensively on problem solving. The quality of the course will depend upon your preparedness. Here is
how a typical lecture, except for the introductory lecture, will work. After pre-reading the chapter and
attempting your homework assignment, you will arrive at class with specific problems and questions to
be addressed. If your question is concept based, then we will provide a brief lecture on that specific
concept. If your question is problem based, then we will use the procedure below in order to address the
specific problem to be solved.
1. Your instructor will call for all individuals who had difficulty with the same problem.
2. These individuals will approach the whiteboard in a group without paper and without writing
utensils.
3. The instructor will do the problem in its entirety while explaining the specific steps in doing the
problem.
4. The students will study the problem and ask any questions pertaining to the problem before returning
to the board.
5. The students will immediately work the problem in their course composition book.
Again you must be prepared for class prior to your arrival. The course moves at a very quick pace. If
you fail to prepare for the class prior to class, then you will rapidly fall.
Material Covered: The list below provides the student with an introduction to the material to be
covered. The exact dates the material will be covered will depend on the pace of the course. The
student should use this list as a guide and prepare for subsequent lectures on the material by reading the
next two chapters following the last material covered in class.
Mechanics (35% of Course)
Measurement
Motion along a Straight Line/One Dimension
Vectors
Motion in Two and Three Dimensions with Projectile Motion Applications
Newton’s 1st, 2nd, and 3rd laws
Force in Motion
Kinetic Energy, Gravitational Potential Energy, Elastic Potential Energy, Rotational Kinetic Energy
Power, Force, Work, and the Work-Energy Theorem
Conservation of Energy
Impulse, and Conservation of Linear Momentum (Elastic and Inelastic Collisions)
Uniform Circular Motion (Centripetal Acceleration)
Torque and Rotational Statics
Simple Harmonic Motion/Mass on a Spring
Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation
Pendulum and Oscillations
Circular Planetary and Satellite Orbits
Electricity and Magnetism (25% of Course)
Electro Statics, Electric Charges, Coulomb’s Law, Insulators, and Conductors
Electric Charge and Electric Field
Electric Potential Energy and Electric Potential
Capacitance and Parallel Plate Capacitors in Steady State Circuits
Power, Current, Resistance, and Conductivity
Series and Parallel DC Resistor Circuits
Kirchoff’s Current and Loop Rules
Introduction to Magnetism and Magnetic Devices
Magnetic Fields, Forces, and Moving Charges in Current Carrying Conductors
Magnetic Fields due to Current
Induction, Inductance, Faraday’s and Lenz’s laws
Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Physics (15% of Course)
Hydrostatic Pressure
Buoyancy
Continuity Equation and Bernoulli’s Equation
Mechanical Equivalent of Heat3
Heat Transfer, Latent Heats, and Thermal Expansion
First (with PV Diagrams and Processes) and Second (Heat Engine and Carnot’s Engine) Laws of
Thermodynamics
Kinetic Model of Gasses and the Ideal Gas Law
Waves and Optics (15% of Course)
Wave Motion (Propagation) and Wave Superposition
Traveling and Standing Waves
Reflection: Law of Reflection
Refraction, Snell’s Law, and Total Internal Reflection
Image Formation by Plane and Spherical Mirrors
Image Formation by Lenses
Image Formation by a Two-Lens System
Interference (Double-Slit, Thin Film, and Newton’s Rings)and the Superposition Principle
Diffraction (Single\ Double Slit, and Diffraction Patterns) and Diffraction Grating
Polarization: Qualitative
Electromagnetic Spectrum
Inverse Square Law
Atomic and Nuclear Physics (10% of Course)
Photons and Wave-Particle Duality of Photons
Compton Scattering and the Photoelectric Effect
Atomic Energy Levels (Ionization Energy, Emission Spectrum, Absorption Spectrum, Lasers)
X-rays and their production
Compton Effect
Nuclear Symbols for Mass Number and Atomic Number
Conservation of Mass and Charge in Nuclear Reactions
Nuclear Reactions (α, β, and γ decay)
Fission and Fusion
Mass-Energy Equivalence
Nuclear Power Production and the Nuclear Power Plant
Laboratory: You must prepare for the labs prior to arriving by reading the labs and by reviewing the
applicable material covered in the lab. Again, students will spend a minimum of 20% of instructional
time engaged in hands on laboratory work. Students shall maintain a portfolio of all laboratory
assignments as documentation to their perspective universities as to the completion of the lab based
portion of their AP Physics course.
Each lab will require:
1. The formation of a hypothesis or hypotheses based on in-class discussion of the presented problem or
focus of each experiment
2. Design of an experiment, also based on in-class discussion, to test the hypothesis or hypotheses
3. Collection of data using PASCO Data Interface and Sensors
4. Calculations using the collected data
5. Conclusions about how well the hypothesis or hypotheses held up based upon the experiment
6. Discussion of variance and error analysis where applicable
7. Written report lab report utilizing MS Word, MS Excel, and Math Type
The list below contains a number of different laboratory exercises which may be selected during the
duration of the course.
1. The Pythagorean Theorem – engage in indirect measurement of heights and distances
2. Graphs of motion as generated by a motion detector – analyze and interpret distance v. time, speed v.
time, and acceleration v. time graphs.
3. Free Fall - determination of acceleration due to gravity
4. Projectile Motion—Relationship between firing angle, maximum height, and range
5. The Monkey and the Hunter Experiment – study of two body kinematics and collisions
6. Hooke’s Law and oscillations – observe the linear nature of springs and properties of oscillations
7. The Atwood’s Machine—verification of Newton’s First Law
8. Centripetal force and circular motion – study of Ferris wheel and vertically “swinging ball” problems
9. Rotational dynamics – discover the relationships among rotational variables and rotational kinematics
10. The MVE (Most Valuable Equation) study of the conservation of energy of linear and rotating
systems
11. Conservation of linear momentum in elastic and inelastic collisions
12. Ballistic Pendulum – Energy and Momentum
13. Simple pendulum—Photogate and spring-mass system—Force sensor
14. Electrostatics
15. Mapping Electric Fields – Plot equipotential and electric field lines
16. Ohm’s Law (Current, Resistance, and Voltage) and Internal Resistance of a Battery
17. Properties of Series and Parallel Resistive Circuits - Circuits, Light Bulbs, Resistors, and Batteries
18. RC Circuit analysis
19. Capacitance, Dielectrics, Conductors, and Insulators
20. Magnetic Field Lines
21. Magnetic Devices – discover the wide variety of common devices that depend upon magnetism
22. Faraday’s Law of Induction
23. Hooks Law and Simple Harmonic Motion Part 1
24. Snell’s Law and Lenses
25. Exploring Color and Light
26. Latent Heat of Fusion
27. Heat Conduction
28. Heat, Energy Transfer, Absorption, and Emission
AP Exam Review: Formal review begins four weeks before the AP Exam is administered. Each student
is given an exam review booklet consisting of the multiple-choice sections from two AP Physics B
Released Exams and the free-response questions from the last five exams. In the booklet is a listing of
the multiple-choice questions sorted by subject (i.e., electrostatics, circuits, etc.). During the early part of
the review, several of these subject areas are assigned as homework. The first part of each class period is
used to answer questions on the previous day’s assignment. The rest of the period is divided up into 15minute intervals, and one free-response question is assigned during each interval. Students may work
alone or in groups of no more than three. Solution notebooks are available in the classroom for students
to check their work. At the end of the first week of review, the Mechanics multiple-choice questions
from an AP Physics B Released Exam are given for credit.