Academic Physics

Academic Physics is an introductory, mechanics-focused course designed to build the foundational skills students need for advanced study in physics. Students explore the core principles that describe how and why objects move. Major topics include one- and two-dimensional kinematics, Newton’s Laws, forces, energy and work, momentum, circular motion, universal gravitation, simple harmonic motion, and an introduction to rotational dynamics.

A major focus of this course is learning by doing. Students regularly conduct labs, experiments, and investigations that strengthen scientific reasoning, data analysis skills, and understanding of real-world physical systems. Assessments may include tests, lab reports, scientific memos, projects, and performance-based tasks.

Because this course develops the mathematical reasoning essential for higher-level physics, students should have strong algebra/geometry skills and be enrolled in Functions, Statistics, & Trigonometry (FST) while taking Academic Physics. This course provides preparation for AP Physics 1, AP Physics C, and introductory college physics.