AP Physics C
AP Physics C is a calculus-based advanced physics course.
| Department | Science |
|---|---|
| Length | Year |
| Credit type | Weighted |
| Teacher(s) | Mr. Sheth, Ms. Norberg? |
Course Catalog Description
Traditional AP Physics C is a calculus-based, college-level physics course with a compulsory laboratory component taught at an accelerated pace. It is equivalent to a course taken by physics majors and engineers at most universities. Traditional AP Physics C concentrates on Mechanics in the first semester (3859A) AND Electricity and Magnetism (3859E) in the second semester. The course prepares students to take the two (2) Advanced Placement physics examinations in both Mechanics and Electricity and Magnetism. Students must sign up for both semesters. (Students who have previously taken Yearlong APC Mechanics (3859 Y) are able to sign up for second semester E&M (3859Y) only).
**** Important Note: By selecting this course, level change requests will be considered ONLY at the end of the 1st Progress reporting Period in September.
• Prerequisite(s): Open to grades 11 and 12. Concurrent enrollment or completion of a calculus course (BC Calculus recommended) and a high confidence in problem-solving skills. Previous physics course recommended.
• Homework Expectation: 4 to 7 hours uninterrupted time per week
• An assessment of core prerequisite skills will be administered within the first two weeks of school.
Summer learning materials will be provided to support this assessment
Units
This class is structured in two parts: the first semester covers Newtonian mechanics, and the second is about electricity and magnetism. These correspond to the two separate AP Physics C tests that are offered by College Board.
Should I sign up for this course?
This course is very fast-paced and requires strong math skills, including Calculus. If you got a 5 on the Calc BC exam, or if you are currently getting an A in Calc BC, you have the requisite math skills and should be good to go for this course. Don't worry if you don't have the physics requirement though. You probably have the skills to learn the physics quickly if you were crazy enough to sign up for this course. If not, may the counselors help you.