H+Physics+Course+Info

=Welcome to Honors Physics!=

Course description:
This course is an overview of the major topics of physics, and therefore will cover the topics broadly instead of learning deeply about one specific topic. Employing laboratory experiments, inquiry activities, and mathematical calculations, students will discover ways to describe the world and enrich their thinking and analyzing capacities. The course will be based on the physics standards set forth by the South Carolina Department of Education, and seek to provide the mental tools necessary for students to succeed in post-secondary education or other life pursuits.

Weighing of Grades:
50% Test/Projects average 30% Quizzes/Labs average 20% Daily Grades average

Class expectations:

 * 1) Report to class on time with all necessary materials.
 * 2) Follow directions the first time.
 * 3) Respect the feelings, space, and property of others.
 * 4) Complete all classwork and homework on time.

First offenses will receive a warning, and second infractions will result in a discussion with the offending student. Third infractions will result in a phone call to the parent/guardian, and any additional infractions will result in an administrative referral or detention.


 * Make-up Work**: If a student misses class (excused absence), the student will have one school day for each day of excused absence to turn in the missing classwork or homework. If a student misses a test or quiz (excused absence), the student will take a make up test or quiz after school by arranging a time with me.


 * Late Work** will not be accepted unless the student qualifies under the Make-up Work category. Students will be given a 0 for the assignment.


 * Help Sessions** are available on request. Please make arrangements with me in advance, and my office is in room H222.


 * Materials Needed** for this class are mostly the basics. To follow Classroom Rule #1, each student should bring paper, a scientific calculator (either non-graphing or graphing), a writing utensil, classwork or homework, and a way to organize the paper (either binder or folder). There will be many handouts in the class, so it may be useful to have a large binder at home in which to place the paperwork. Compiling all the documents will be useful when it is time to study for the end-of-semester exam and provide easy reference if there is ever any dispute over grades or other questions. Students should also have access to a metric ruler and a protractor for various calculations throughout the year.