PHYSICS, PART 1

Physics is an introductory course that builds a strong foundation in the laws of motion, forces, and energy through real-world applications. Part 1 begins with the study of one-dimensional motion, where students learn to analyze displacement, velocity, acceleration, and free fall using kinematic equations and motion graphs. The course then explores Newton’s laws of motion and the relationships between force, mass, and acceleration, with an emphasis on friction, air resistance, and free-body diagrams. Students apply vector concepts to two-dimensional motion, including projectile motion and forces on inclined planes. Topics such as circular motion, torque, and simple machines are examined alongside Newton’s law of universal gravitation and Kepler’s laws. The course concludes with investigations into work, energy, power, and momentum, including conservation laws and collisions. Applications like roller coasters, skiing, and car crashes demonstrate the relevance of physics in everyday life. Physics is approved by the University of California A-G as a laboratory science – Physics (category D).

Upon completion of this course, the student is awarded 5 credits. Each credit corresponds to 15 hours of study. Of course, some students work more quickly than others, and some can devote more hours to study, so some students are able to complete the course at an accelerated rate.