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Courses

Status

Open

Estimated Completion Time

2 segments / 32-36 weeks

Enroll/Extend in Adult Education Physics 1 (lab) click here

Overview

In each module of Physics I, students discover the contributions of scientific geniuses like Galileo, Newton, and Einstein. Through their work, students learn the concepts, theories, and laws that govern the interaction of matter, energy, and forces. From tiny atoms to galaxies with millions of stars, the universal laws of physics are explained through real-world examples. Using laboratory activities, simulations, images, and interactive elements, students follow in the footsteps of some of the world’s greatest thinkers.

Note: content varies depending on course version. For currently enrolled students, please refer to the syllabus located in the course information area for curriculum specifics.

Course Requirements

Required Materials:

Scientific Calculator – with logarithmic functions and scientific notation capabilities.
Thermometer
Graph paper – many lessons will require you to create graphs by hand for the activities.
Graphing Analysis 4 Software – course includes directions on how to download this software for Windows, MAC OSX 10.x.x, and Chromebook.
Where JAVA is required in labs, a Windows or MAC machine is recommended, as Chromebooks will not allow the security setting to be adjusted so the simulation can function correctly.

Major Topics and Concepts

Segment 1

Plagiarism, Libel, Slander
Theory vs. law, science vs. pseudoscience
Measurement Techniques
Graphical Analysis
Experimental Techniques
Lab Design
Speed, Velocity, Acceleration
Problem-Solving Methods
Vector and Scalar Quantities
Equation Manipulation
Freefall and Gravity
Newton’s Laws of Motion
The Fundamental Forces
Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation
Coulomb’s Law
Mass and Weight
Free-body Diagrams
Uniform Circular Motion
Momentum and Angular Momentum

Segment 2

Temperature and Heat
Conservation of Thermal Energy
Kinetic and Potential Energy
Work and Power
Conductors and Insulators
Electrical Fields and Forces
Simple, Series, and Parallel Circuits
Schematic Diagrams
Simple Harmonic Motion
Wave Behavior and Equation
Ray Diagrams
Lenses and Mirrors
Snell’s Law
Atomic Theory
Atoms and Molecules
Fundamental Particles
Duality of Light
Radioactivity
Nuclear Fission and Nuclear Fusion
Special Relativity and Cosmology

Credits 1

Competencies

Data Collection
Students will demonstrate an understanding of measurement by explaining graphing techniques and explaining systems of measurement.
Kinematics
Students will demonstrate an understanding of kinematics by explaining speed and velocity, analyzing motion graphs, and describing the effects of gravity on free-fall motion.
Motion
Students will demonstrate an understanding of motion by explaining Newton’s laws of motion, explaining principles of force, and explaining principles of momentum.
Electricity
Students will demonstrate an understanding of electricity by explaining electrical conduction and insulation, explaining the role of electrons in magnetic fields, and explaining resistance.
Energy
Students will demonstrate an understanding of energy by explaining the relationship between temperature and energy, explaining the factors affecting potential and kinetic energy, and explaining the relationship between work and energy.
Particles
Students will demonstrate an understanding of particles by explaining the postulates of atomic theory, comparing nuclear fission and nuclear fusion, and explaining the postulates of special relativity.
Waves
Students will demonstrate an understanding of waves by describing waves and their properties, comparing electromagnetic and mechanical waves, and explaining light refraction.

Pre-Requisites

Algebra I; Algebra II recommended

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Adult Education Physics 1 (lab)