St. James Catholic High School
Course Overview
Course Title:
Physics, Grade 11, University Preparation
Course Code:
SPH 3U
Credit Value:
1
Course Description:
This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students
will explore kinematics, with an emphasis on linear motion; different kinds of forces;
energy transformations; the properties of mechanical waves and sound; and electricity
and magnetism. They will enhance their scientific investigation skills as they test laws
of physics. In addition, they will analyze the interrelationships between physics and
technology, and consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society
and the environment.
How This Course Supports the Ontario Catholic Graduate Expectations:
Through the study of physics, students have the opportunity to “discover the laws which
govern the universe, as well as their interrelationship.” They (scientists, and therefore students)
can “stand in wonderment and humility before the created and feel drawn to the love of the
Author of all things.”(address of Pope John Paul II to the Jubilee of Scientists May 25, 2000)
The study of any science helps students to learn to be reflective, critical, and creative thinkers,
as well as discerning believers, who can apply their knowledge to the world around them. They
can then make appropriate decisions in light of Gospel values and Church teachings. Through
the study of the techniques of science, particularly experimentation, students learn to be
collaborative contributors to an interdependent team, respecting the rights, responsibilities, and
contributions of others. Overall, students become aware of the spiritual, as well as the physical
dimension of the world and of the need to respect the environment and to use resources wisely
in order to fulfill their roles as stewards of God’s creation. “By increasing his knowledge of the
universe ... man has a veiled perception ... of the presence of God....” (address of Pope John
Paul II). Please see the Course Calendar / Agenda Book for a listing of the Ontario Catholic
Graduate Expectations.
Unit Titles:
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Kinematics
Forces
Energy and Society
Waves and Sound
Electricity and Magnetism
Evaluation:
Course Grade Weighting
Term Work…………………. 70%
Culminating Activities………30%
(final exam – 20%)
Category Weighting
Knowledge and Understanding…………. 20%
Thinking and Inquiry……………………. 40%
Application……………………………… 30%
Communication…………………………. 10%
Missed Evaluations
Failure to complete assessment and evaluation activities reduces the body of evidence upon which the
teacher can evaluate student achievement of the curriculum expectations and could jeopardize the
granting of a credit for the course.
Missed Tests:
If a test is missed, the absence must be confirmed with the office. Students are expected to write the test
on the day they return unless previous arrangements have been made with the teacher.
Late Assignments:
For each day an assignment is late 10% will be deducted up to a maximum of three days late (30%).
Assignments will not be accepted after three days late or after the assignments have been returned which
ever is first. Students will have one grace late day per course to be used without explanation.
Cheating and Plagiarism:
Note: Copying lab reports is a form of plagiarism and both students will be subject to the penalties.
Each student is expected to submit his or her own work. For lab partners, calculations, if done correctly,
may be the same. Any written work such as descriptive observations or answers to questions and
conclusions may express the same information but must be written in their own words. Under no
circumstances should a student give their lab report to another student.
The use of electronic devises during all forms of evaluation including tests is strictly prohibited.
It will be considered cheating if a student is found with a devise.
Consequences for cheating can be found in the Student Agenda.
Parent / Guardian Signature:
My signature below indicates that I have read and understood the course overview.
Student Signature: ____________________________________
Date: __________
Parent/Guardian Signature: ____________________________
Date: __________
Parent Contact: phone ______________________________
e-mail ______________________________