Who is this course for?

Everyone :-)

This course is for those who love science and for those who hate it.

Guided inquiry (see the informational videos on the home page and the sample unit) will make physics come alive. Students will find physics more enjoyable and they will finish the course with a deeper understanding than a textbook-based model. Laboratory investigations based on readily available, household supplies are included throughout, where practical.

There are two mathematical prerequisite for this course. The first is the ability to solve for "x" in a simple algebra equation. For example, if students can use a calculator to solve this equation then they are ready: 15.4x=350. The 2nd prerequisite is a familiarity with trig functions such as sine and cosine. We will review these functions in the physics course, but familiarity beforehand will be helpful.

Here are the topics students will encounter:

        1. Motion in One Dimension
        2. Acceleration and Forces
        3. Motion in Two Dimensions
        4. Circular and Rotational Motion
        5. Momentum
        6. Work, Energy, and Simple Machines
        7. Waves and Their Properties
        8. Sound
        9. Light
        10. Mirrors and Lenses
        11. Diffraction and Interference
        12. Electricity
        13. Magnetism
        14. Special Relativity

Visit our FAQ page if you have questions, or reach out to us! We try to be speedy with our answers!

What do I need to be successful?

Academic Skills: Students need to be able to do basic algebra. By basic algebra, I mean that if a student can "solve for x" in an equation, then the student can do the math in this course. Familiarity with trig functions such as sine and cosine is helpful. They should also be able to read at a 9th grade reading level.

Technology: You will need a computer with an internet connection that can stream video. The computer will be used to access answer keys and watch video instruction, demonstrations, and labs.

Laboratory: Some labs may require purchasing items at a grocery store or hardware store. If you don't feel like purchasing supplies for any particular lab, you can usually watch the video for the lab instead. It can be as complicated or as simple as you prefer!