Physics (Dual Credit/Honors)

Course Description

The proper study of physics ought to inspire and excite the mind. Young children are often fascinated by the simplest of things –the rolling of a ball, the colors of refracted light, how much tension it takes to destroy their parents’ china. In physics, students have an opportunity to peer deeper – to move beyond topical observation and engage on a deeper level the fundamental laws that articulate how things work. There is wonder in uncovering the mystery of their order, beholding the beauty found in their elegance, and coming to know the why and how of material things. With this object in mind, this course will pursue primarily a conceptual understanding as its goal, and use analytical and quantitative methods as some of the proper tools toward that end. This high school dual-credit course introduces the foundational principles of physics—including mechanics, energy, waves, and electromagnetism—through hands-on laboratory experiments and real-world problem-solving. Designed to mirror a rigorous, introductory college algebra-based physics sequence, students will learn to analyze physical phenomena using mathematical reasoning and critical thinking. By successfully completing the course, students earn both high school science credit and transferable college credit, giving them a strong head start on STEM-focused college pathways.