Highlands High School
Course # 2536 Introduction to Physics
2010-2011 Course Syllabus
Instructor
Grade
Credit
Prerequisite
Tim Auch
9
1
None
e-mail: timothy.auch@fortthomas.kyschools.us
phone: 815-2617
Description:
Ninth grade science provides topics from physics to earth & space science, emphasizing how the
selected topics in each discipline reflect aspects of broad scientific themes. Attention is given to
current issues and applications of science and technology in today’s world. The approach of the
course is inquiry oriented enabling students to develop skills and concepts through classroom
activities and direct laboratory experience of the phenomena being studied.
Comment:
The goals of this class are centered on promoting the discovery process within physics and earth
& space sciences. Students are expected to carry out experiments that upon successful
completion will allow them to discover physical principles using lab skills and math. Students
will improve their problem solving and inquiry skills. Students will make critical connections
between physical science principles and current technologies and their impact on society.
Course Standards
Kentucky’s Learning Goals: 2.1 through 2.6
Core Content #s: 1.2.1, 1.2.2, 1.2.3, 2.3.1, 2.3.7, 2.3.8, 4.6.2, 4.6.3, 4.6.6, 4.6.7, 4.6.8, 4.6.9
Students will
 make a variety of measurements such as mass, volume, area, temperature, acceleration, etc.
using appropriate technologies.
 predict motion, speed, acceleration, distance, force, etc.
 demonstrate Newton’s laws of motion.
 predict and calculate gravitational effects between two bodies.
 discuss the solar system and apply Newton’s laws of motions to planets.
 discuss and demonstrate work, simple machines, conservation of energy and various forms
and transformations of energy.
 discuss temperature, heat, and thermal energy, and the relationships between them.
 discuss waves and sound and be able to characterize its properties and work problems with it.
 discuss light and be able to demonstrate it properties and work problems with it.
 discuss other forms of electromagnetic radiation, in addition to visible light, and be able to
characterize their properties and work problems.
 discuss and demonstrate relationships between magnetism and electricity and work problems.
 discuss plate tectonics, relationship of waves and seismic activity and the dynamic nature of
the Earth and its atmosphere.
Introduction to Physics
2010-2011 Course Syllabus
Page 2
Textbook:
Conceptual Physics by Paul Hewitt; Pearson, 2009.
Required Material:
Spiral notebook, 3-ring binder with folders, pens, pencils, scientific calculator, safety glasses
(optional; one class set is available), graph paper, one tissue box, payment of class fees in
guidance office.
Grading
Students will be evaluated on activities and class assignments including but not limited to the
following:
 tests and quizzes
 laboratory activities and reports
 various writing and research assignments
 homework
 portfolio pieces
 individual and group activities and projects
 classroom activities and participation
Participation and Attendance:
Students will be expected to be on time and prepared for class with all necessary materials.
Students are responsible for making arrangements to make up tests, homework and laboratory
activities. For more information, see student handbook.
Course Content/Calendar
First Semester
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Physical Science Basics (Chapter 1)
Motion, Force and Newton’s Laws
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2 weeks
6 weeks
Linear Motion (Chapter 4)
Mechanical Equilibrium (Chapter 2)
Newton's First Law of Motion (Chapter 3)
Newton's Second Law of Motion (Chapter 6)
Newton’s Third Law of Motion (Chapter 7)
Gravity and Satellite Motion (Chapters 5, 13 and 14)
Momentum (Chapter 8)
Work and Energy (Chapter 9)
Thermal Energy (Chapters 21-24)
2 weeks
6 weeks
2 weeks
Introduction to Physics
2010-2011 Course Syllabus
Page 3
Second Semester
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Waves, Seismic and Sound (Chapters 25-26)
Light
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Light (Chapter 27)
Color (Chapter 28)
Reflection and Refraction (Chapter 29)
Lenses (Chapter 30)
Diffraction and Interference (Chapter 31)
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Electricity and Magnetism
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6 weeks
Electrostatics (Chapter 32)
Electric Fields and Potential (Chapter 33)
Electric Current (Chapter 34)
Electric Circuits (Chapter 35)
Magnetism (Chapter 36)
Electromagnetic Induction (Chapter 37)
Dynamic Earth
Energy Use and Transfer
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4 weeks
4 weeks
Energy needs and sources
Renewable vs. Non-renewable energy sources
Fossil fuels
Nuclear power (Chapter 40)
2 weeks
2 weeks