Course title

Pre-requisite

Course description

Physics II Honors

Physics is the study of the natural world and the creation of models that help predict natural events. Physics I is a full-year course in which we began our investigation by studying the motion of objects and the interactions of objects (Mechanics). Physics II is a full-year course to continue to investigate and think critically about the physical world with a focus on the elements of Electricity and Magnetism.

Course Objectives:
1. To develop a sense of wonder and curiosity about the physical world.
2. To discover and understand the primary laws of nature.
3. To develop the ability to apply abstract mathematics to concrete events.
4. To develop problem-solving skills.
5. To develop the ability to communicate using precise physics language.

In order to achieve these objectives; we will first make careful observations of the natural world. An instructional unit for the course will usually begin with a laboratory experiment designed to challenge our observation and thinking skills. During the laboratory investigation we will identify which aspects of a physical phenomenon we can measure; and we will design and perform experiments to study the relationships between measurable quantities. We will then evaluate the results of our experiments by creating models (tables; graphs; diagrams; and mathematical equations) which summarize and clarify what we observed. These models will be applied to new physical situations; which will allow us to predict natural events and solve problems. Finally; we will learn to clearly explain our findings and problem solutions to each other using scientific language and mathematical models.

Topics:

Electric Charge
Laws of Electrical Charge Interaction
Polarization and Induction
Conductors and Insulators
Charge Transfer and Grounding

Electric Energy and Potential
Work and Energy
Electric Potential
Equipotential Lines
Capacitance

Electric Forces and Fields
Coulomb’s Law
Electric Fields
Field Lines
Uniform Fields and Dipole Fields

Electric Circuits
Charge Density
Current and Drift Velocity
Ohm’s Law
Parallel and Series Circuits
Power

Magnetic Fields and Forces
Field Loops
Electromagnets and Permanent Magnets
Electric Motors
Magnetic Flux
Faraday’s Law
Lenz’s Law

Supplies:
• Resources for taking notes and organizing class materials (Examples: spiral notebook; three-ring binder; file folders; pens; pencils; eraser)
• Pencil; eraser; and loose-leaf paper for some assignments
• A graphing calculator (preferably TI-83 or TI-83+)

Bring to class every day: Class materials; Pencil; Eraser; Calculator

Evaluation: Your evaluation and grade will depend on your depth of inquiry into; understanding of; and attitude toward the material presented in class. These will be assessed by your performance in the following categories:
• Class participation – I need you to help me teach this class. I expect you to ask relevant questions; volunteer answers; share insights and observations during the class discussion; and participate in class activities. “The mind is not a vessel to be filled; but a fire to be kindled” – Plutarch
• Assignments
ÔÉò Written assignments should be done in pencil with your first and last name and the date written in the upper right-hand corner.
ÔÉò Clearly communicate your solution steps and thought processes on the paper. I want to see your brain at work.
ÔÉò Assignments should be completed by the date due.
 When there is no written assignment due the next school day; your homework is to review your notes; the readings; and any graded material that has been handed back. Prepare some questions for the next day’s discussion.
• Lab Reports – Experiments and laboratory activities are a vital part of Physics; and lab reports count for a significant portion of your grade.
• Quizzes and Tests – There will be periodic quizzes throughout the course. Tests will be given at the conclusion of each unit. A major test will be announced one week in advance so that you have time to organize and review the concepts.

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High school

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Requested competency code

Date submitted

Approved

Approved competency code

• LPHY
• Physics

Approved date

Online / Virtual