Advanced Saxon Physics
Teacher: Michelle Miller
Grades: 9 - 12
Meets: M/W 3:00 - 4:30
Class Description: Physics
isn't hard it's just different!!
This course
will cover all the material normally covered in the first two semesters of a
non-engineering college level physics course.
(It is an algebra based course, not calculus based).
Topics include motion, work, power, heat, waves, circuits, electricity,
magnetism, mirror/lens equations, quantum physics and special relativity.
The Saxon
website describes the course as:
"Saxon Physics is equally appropriate for average and gifted students. The
entire program is based on introducing a topic to a student and then allowing
them to build upon that concept as they learn new ones. Topics are gradually
increased in complexity and practiced every day, providing the time required for
concepts to become totally familiar."
At the completion of the course, students will have an opportunity to take the College Board AP Physics exam (Physics B). A passing score on this exam could earn them up to 8 college credit hours in science. (Each university sets their own requirements for AP credit; please check your preferred school's website for more information.) Students wishing to sit for the exam will need to pay an additional test fee to College Board. (Approximately $89)
Prerequisites: In preparation for this class the student should have completed Saxon Advanced Math or an equivalent. A first year’s Physics course is highly recommended, but exceptions will be considered on an individual basis.
Maximum Class Size: The class size is limited to ten students to allow more individual help when needed.
Homework: Students will need to set aside 8 - 10 hours for homework each week. This course has significantly more homework than the Apologia science classes. Be prepared for a heavy workload!
Cost:
$ 80 per month
Supplies that the students should bring to class: Each student will need a copy of the Saxon Physics Text (ISBN 1565770056), and either an answer key or solutions manual. The students will also need a scientific graphing calculator. Any graphing calculator is acceptable but the TI-83+ and TI-84 will be emphasized in class.
Saxon has a Solutions Manual available that shows the problem step by step, which many students find helpful. Some students can become too dependent on the solutions manual and not fully gain the experience of struggling through the difficult concepts. Each family should decide for themselves if a solutions manual is needed.
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