Physics
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- Grade Level: 11, 12
- Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and Geometry
- UC Approved – d – Laboratory Science
- Credits: 10
This course, in conjunction with biology and chemistry, provides the broadest exposure of fundamental science concepts students need for most introductory science courses at the college level. Physical concepts of motion, forces, momentum, energy, thermodynamics, waves, electricity, and magnetism are covered.
AP Physics 1
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- Grade Level: 11, 12
- Prerequisites: Algebra 2 A/B
- UC Approved – d – Laboratory Science
- Credits: 10
AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory, simple circuits. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. A summer assignment includes basic algebra trigonometry, metric and unit conversions. Completion of Algebra 2 is required. Topics in this course are consistent with expectations of College Board.
AP Physics 2
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- Grade Level: 11, 12
- Prerequisites: Algebra 2 A/B; AP Physics 1
- UC Approved – d – Laboratory Science
- Credits: 10
AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore concepts like systems, fields, force interactions, change, conservation, waves, and probability. Topics include fluids, thermodynamics, optics, nuclear physics, electricity, and magnetism. A summer assignment should be expected. Topics in this course are consistent with expectations of College Board.
IB Physics SL
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- Grade Level: 11, 12
- Prerequisites: Algebra 2 A/B; AP Physics 1
- UC Approved – d – Laboratory Science
- Credits: 10
This course is designed to be equivalent to an introductory college physics course and consistent with the expectations of the International Baccalaureate Programme. Topics include mechanics, climate change, thermodynamics, waves, optics, electricity, magnetism, and atomic physics. Students will be expected to take the IB exam in May. A summer assignment should be expected. Students are expected to complete 40 hours of laboratory work. Concurrent enrollment in/or completion of Pre-Calculus is required.
IB Physics HL
link to slideshow about course
- Grade Level: 11, 12
- Prerequisites: Algebra 2 A/B; AP Physics 1
- UC Approved – d – Laboratory Science
- Credits: 10
This course is designed to be equivalent to an introductory college physics course and consistent with the expectations of the International Baccalaureate Programme. Topics include mechanics, climate change, thermodynamics, fluids, waves, optics, electricity, magnetism, and atomic physics. Students will be expected to take the IB exam in May. A summer assignment should be expected. Students are expected to complete 60 hours of laboratory work. Concurrent enrollment in/or completion of Pre-Calculus is required.
