Course Overview

Physics A is a foundational high school science course that introduces students to the fundamental principles of physics and demonstrates their importance in understanding the natural world. Focusing on motion, forces, energy, matter, heat, sound, light, and atomic structure, the course emphasizes the laws that govern physical systems and their application to real-world situations. Students will learn to describe the physical world using a small set of core assumptions, concepts, and equations, while exploring the relationship between physics and everyday life.

Key Learning Focus

• Motion and Forces: Investigating motion in one and two dimensions, Newton's laws, momentum, collisions, and circular motion.
• Work and Energy: Analyzing energy transformations, conservation of energy, and power.
• Gravitation: Exploring gravitational forces and their impact on motion.
• Heat and Thermodynamics: Understanding heat transfer and the fundamental laws of thermodynamics.
• Sound and Light: Examining wave properties, reflection, refraction, and applications in optics.
• Atomic Structure: Introducing the structure of atoms and their role in physical processes.
• Scientific Methods: Applying hypotheses, experiments, and mathematical reasoning to investigate phenomena.

Instructional Approach

The course employs a blend of theoretical study and active learning through laboratory experiments, project-based activities, and problem-solving sessions. Approximately 40% of the course involves virtual labs and hands-on experiments, often using simple household items such as rulers, marbles, string, and paper. Students design experiments, analyze data, and apply scientific reasoning to build generalizations and solve complex problems. Activities emphasize both conceptual understanding and practical application of physics principles.

Academic Alignment and Progression

Physics A aligns with state and national science education standards, including the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Designed as a full-year introductory course for grades 9–12, it is the first part of a two-course sequence leading to Physics B. Completion of this course prepares students for advanced science coursework, AP Physics, and college-level STEM studies. It also provides a foundation for career exploration in engineering, astronomy, meteorology, medicine, and applied sciences, as well as fields where strong analytical skills are highly valued.

Outcomes

By the end of Physics A, students will:

• Demonstrate understanding of motion, forces, energy, sound, light, and atomic structure.
• Apply Newton's laws, conservation principles, and thermodynamics to solve problems.
• Conduct and evaluate laboratory experiments using both physical and virtual tools.
• Use mathematical models to describe and predict physical outcomes.
• Connect physics principles to everyday life and potential STEM careers.
• Be prepared for Physics B, AP Physics, and advanced science coursework.