Title: Conceptual Physics

Conceptual Physics is a course designed to address major topics of the essential physics high school science content expectations in order to provide a solid conceptual base in physics in support of subsequent courses. It will be offered in the freshman year of the physics first course sequence. This course will allocate the time necessary for students to develop conceptual mastery of physics concepts using a well structured, student centered instruction. The course opens with a critical unit called ‘Forces and Energy.’ This unit familiarizes students with nature of scientific inquiry in physics, the reasoning required around measurement and data and the collaborative abilities necessary for the curriculum. The units that follow address the standard topics in physics (e.g. motion, sound and light, electricity and magnetism) as they are applied to interesting contexts (e.g., roller coasters, sports on the moon, study of the universe). The instructional approach of the course is one of constructivist inquiry where students’ master key concepts and skills through the pursuit of focus questions using explorative activities, experimentation, concept writing and substantive classroom discussion.

Sequencing of Units:

Careful thought has been given to the order in which the units are presented. The earlier units cover mechanics which offers many very tangible hands on investigations and reveals patterns that can be recognized in the later units which are more abstract. The sequence is traditional and therefore aligns well with most commercial textbooks that may supplement the course.

Course Rationale:

Physics is the most fundamental body of knowledge in science. It under girds all other science disciplines and offers tremendous opportunities to apply mathematics..

Alignment:

This course is aligned to the Michigan High School Content Expectations in Physics.