Physics 1A

Physics is an organized, systematic body of knowledge that aims at understanding, describing, and predicting events in the natural world. Its scope includes, but is not limited to: particles that are so small that they can never be seen and must instead be modeled mathematically; the nature of matter and energy; the unity of space and time; the mechanics of motion; the paths that planets and stars travel as they move through the cosmos; and the fundamental forces which govern reality itself. Ultimately, physics forms that basis for all of the other hard sciences such as chemistry, biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Chemistry is applied physics and biology is applied chemistry. By studying physics, you will gain a deeper understanding of both the world around you, and of the mysteries of existence that have fascinated the greatest minds throughout the centuries.

Upon completing this course you will be able to:

• understand how the scientific method works, as well as its limitations.
• analyze and describe the motion of objects.
• understand and apply Newton’s laws of motion.
• calculate and understand energy and its transformations.
• understand the significance and applications of conservation of momentum.

• Physics Journal – In the form of a small composition notebook, a spiral notebook, or loose-leaf paper kept in a binder.
• Pencil or Pen – In order to do well in the course, you must take notes, sketch diagrams and graphs, and solve problems when instructed to do so.
• Internet Access
• Adobe Reader
• scientific calculator

Note: This course does not require a textbook.

Each semester contains 4 units and one final exam.

Each Unit contains:

• 4–5 lessons. Each lesson includes some or all of the following components: Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate.
• Self-assessments to help you check your own understanding of the material covered in each lesson. You must complete these assessments in order to advance in the course.
• 3–4 graded assignments

The final examination is comprehensive; it covers the material from all 8 units. To pass the course, you must receive a grade of 70 percent or better. You can apply to take the Final Exam after 100 percent of your graded assignments have been submitted, and at least 70 percent have been graded and returned to you.

Format: Multiple-choice, online

Time Allowed: 3 hours

Materials Allowed: #2 pencils, scientific calculator

Topic 1: The scientific method

Topic 2: Mathematical and graphic analysis

Topic 3: 1D and 2D motion

Topic 4: Newtonian forces and gravitation

Topic 5: The energy of motion and the energy of position

Topic 6: The law of conservation of energy

Topic 7: Momentum and impulse

Topic 8: The law of conservation of momentum