Physics Academic Expectations
Mr. Friel
Needed Materials:
-
Three ring binder with dividers (or some sort of organizational tool specifically for
physics with looseleaf to take notes)
-
Pencils and pens
-
Scientific Calculator (for use at home)
Academic Requirements for Completion of the Course:
Homework: Homework will be the basis for class discussion and deepening knowledge
through practice. Homework will sometimes be assessed for accuracy through learning
checks and for completion at the end of each unit. If you have independently completed
the homework, the learning checks should be basic and straightforward.
Labs: Labs will be performed frequently in this course and will be announced. Labs will
be assessed through the use of open notes lab quizzes as well as formal lab reports.
Tests: Tests will be given per unit. Tests will be based on the learning goals for each
unit. In addition to studying these expectations, you should review your class notes,
worksheets, and lab reports. Everything done in class is intentional to help prepare you
for the tests. Tests will be a combination of multiple choice, interpretation of reading
samples and sample lab data, mathematical computations, and short answer questions.
Projects: You will be assigned multiple projects throughout the year. The projects are
designed to help you apply the physics content using a more hands-on approach.
Requirements will vary for each project.
Grade Recovery: I believe that the most essential component of your grade is what you
have earned at the conclusion of a unit. Some students take more time than others to
master a unit. . If you score higher on the unit test than a previous learning check, your
test score will replace the lower score as long as you have shown completion of those
homework assignments. Also, I will offer retakes of tests. However, to earn a retake
you must show that you have completed all assigned homework and have completed
any additional targeted worksheets that are assigned to help you improve on the skills
you lack. Retakes must be taken within one week of the original test date and you may
earn up to a maximum grade of a 90% which will replace the previous grade.
Email: rfriel@mayfieldschools.org
Phone: 440-995-6988
Extra Credit: The maximum number of extra credit points per quarter is 10 points.
Newton Nuggets (each worth one extra credit point) are awarded for participation and
accomplishments that go above and beyond the general requirements for the course. A
student will not be able to turn in any Newton Nuggets if they have acquired four or
more tardies during the nine weeks.
Make-Up Work:
If you miss a day you are expected to make up any work missed. Please use Mr. Friel’s
teacher website to view what you missed. Upon returning, please pick up handouts in
the makeup tray. You will need to get notes from a classmate as well. Make-up times
will be arranged between the student and teacher, preferably before or after school. If
you knew about a test before your absence and only missed a review day, you will be
expected to take it the first day you return. If you were not aware of the test you will
have five days to make the test. It is your responsibility to ask for the test. However, if
you do not make up the test before the tests are passed back, you will be given the
retake version of the test and thus will not have the opportunity of an additional retake.
Late Work:
Because most homework and labs are assessed through the use of learning checks, you
will most likely not do well on the learning check if you did not do the assigned work.
However, you are strongly encouraged to make up your missing work so that you may
perform well on the unit test. If your test score is higher than your previously poor
learning check, you have proven that you have learned the material and I will replace the
lower learning check score with your unit test score.
Recipe for Success
It sounds simple but if you do the following, you will have success in the course:
-
Come to class everyday prepared.
-
Do the assigned readings and homework problems.
-
Actively participate in labs and projects.
-
Pay attention to Mr. Friel.
-
Ask if you do not understand something.
-
Do not give up if you are having trouble.
Stick to these ingredients, and you will have a fabulous year in physics!
Email: rfriel@mayfieldschools.org
Phone: 440-995-6988