Physics

APPLIED PHYSICS                           

(1 unit) Students taking this course will develop an appreciation and understanding of physics and the scientific method by engaging in highly relevant problem-based learning. Units focus on a variety of topics including: the physics of driving, aerodynamics, and electrical circuits. Students will learn to solve problems using critical thinking skills they will need in the ‘real world’ beyond high school and they will come to recognize the benefits, as well as the limitations, of science and technology.
Prerequisite: Students will have successfully completed two Science Regents courses.

 

PHYSICS              

(1 unit) Physics is the study of how matter and energy relate to each other, and how they affect each other over time and through space. This course will help students acquire factual knowledge within a conceptual and thematic framework, practice experimental design and interpretation, work collaboratively with other students in challenging labs, class activities and projects including the annual rubber-band powered car competition, and develop critical thinking skills. Topics include: laws of motion; conservation of energy and momentum; forces; electricity and magnetism (including circuit analysis and design), characteristics and behavior of waves, sound and light; and atomic, nuclear, and quantum physics. Students who choose to take Physics must understand that the course is rigorous and requires a disciplined work ethic.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry
Co-requisite: Algebra 2 and Trig or higher
 

ACCELERATED PHYSICS

(1 unit) This Physics course follows a demanding curriculum that will move at a rapid pace and requires a commitment to study at home on the part of the student. This course is for students who have a keen interest in studying science/engineering and may be thinking about pursuing those endeavors in college and who plan to enroll concurrently in an AP Science this year, and possibly enrolling in AP Physics the following year. This course will help students acquire factual knowledge and analytical skills within a conceptual and thematic framework, practice experimental design and interpretation, work collaboratively with other students in challenging labs, class activities and projects, and develop critical thinking skills. This course culminates with a demanding local final.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry
Co-requisite: Algebra 2 and Trig or higher and a core lab AP Science class.
Suggested Guidelines: Successful 11th grade students who are able to work independently and collaboratively, are organized, and are able to self-direct their study. Reliable predictors of success: 85 or above on all Regents Science/Math examinations and more reliably a pattern demonstrating the willingness to put the time into study and doing the necessary hard work. Recommended to be concurrently enrolled in Precalculus.
 

AP PHYSICS C: MECHANICS      

(1 unit) The AP Physics course at Fox Lane is a demanding curriculum corresponding to approximately one semester of college level physics study.  Students who endeavor to challenge themselves in this course will be presented with an advanced level of calculus based physics content including kinematics; Newton's laws of motion; work, energy, and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; gravitation; and oscillations.  In addition to the thematic content experience, students will develop superior problem solving skills through various class and college level laboratory challenges.  Students who choose to take AP Physics must understand that the course is intended to be a vigorous, well-disciplined undertaking, fully challenging to the most able students. The course culminates with a demanding final exam and students are strongly encouraged to take the AP Physics C test in Mechanics in May. For more information on the course content, please speak with the instructor. 
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physics or equivalent study.
Co-requisite: AP Calculus AB or BC, or similar  
Suggested Guidelines:  Students successfully completed Physics or Accelerated Physics.