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CONCEPTUAL PHYSICS SYLLABUS
2009 – 2010
Teacher: Mrs. Kraft
Email: kkraf@bosqueschool.org
Website: http://TeacherWeb.com/NM/BosqueSchool/Kraft
Official Office Hours: Tuesday/Friday Activity Block
CONTENT
Conceptual Physics is a course designed to introduce novice students
to the world of physics through a concept-based approach. The focus
is on understanding the underlying principles behind physical
phenomena – explanation before calculation.
This year, we will learn about a wide variety of physics topics. A
rough outline includes:
• Mechanics (Kinematics, Newton’s Laws, Momentum, Energy,
Gravitation) FALL*
• Properties of Matter (Solids, Liquids, Gases, Atomic
Structure) FALL*
• Heat (Temperature, Thermal Expansion, Heat Transfer,
Thermodynamics) SPRING*
• Waves (Sound, Light, Reflection, Refraction, Interference,
Diffraction) SPRING*
• Electricity and Magnetism (Electrostatics, Electric Fields,
Current, Circuits, Induction) SPRING*
• Special Relativity – if time! SPRING*
* This is just an outline of what is planned. Schedule subject to
change based on student need/interest.
GUIDING QUESTIONS
We will be revisiting these “Essential Questions” with each new unit
throughout the year:
• How do physical principles affect our everyday lives?
• Is it possible to describe the entire natural world with a
small number of physical principles?
• Does an understanding of physics help us appreciate nature?
REQUIRED SUPPLIES
“Conceptual Physics” Textbook (to be left at home, for the most part)
3-Ring Binder with 4 divider tabs
Loose-leaf paper
Composition notebook (provided by school)
Scientific calculator (TI preferred)
Pens/pencils
GRADING POLICY
The focus of your work in this course is on mastery. In general, if
your homework is turned in early, you will be allowed to correct it
to raise your score. Homework is due at the beginning of class.
Late homework will not be accepted, except in the case of illness or
a pre-approved absence. Short quizzes will be given frequently to
check for understanding – be ready! Tests will be given at the end
of major thematic units, and will be scheduled well in advance.
Grades are cumulative throughout the year, and will be calculated as
follows:
Science Journal 10%
Homework 15%
Labs 25%
Quizzes 10%
Tests & Major Projects 40%
CLASSROOM RESPONSIBILITIES
Your responsibilities are simple, and intended to make the class more
comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
• Come to class prepared. This includes bringing all of your
supplies, having your homework done, and being ready to participate
and ask questions.
• Be respectful of others. Wait your turn to speak, and do not
put down the ideas or answers of your classmates and teacher.
• Be open-minded and patient. Physics can sometimes be counter-
intuitive and challenging. Understand that some of your “common
sense” beliefs might be put to the test. All questions and answers
are fair game in this class.
• Enjoy your food and drinks (except water) outside of class.
If you eat during class, you will be expected to spend at least 15
minutes cleaning the classroom during a free period.
• The school’s cell phone/electronics policy will be upheld in
this class. If your phone is visible during class, you will receive
a warning. If you are using your phone during class, it will be
confiscated.
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