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Physics 11

Physics 11 Course Overview

Big Ideas

An object's motion can be predicted, analyzed, and described.


Forces influence the motion of an object.


Energy is found in different forms, is conserved, and has the ability to do work.


Mechanical waves transfer energy but not matter.

From:  https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/curriculum/science/11/physics 

Introduction

Physics 11 is an introductory course in physics that focuses on the principles and theories of physics, encourages investigation of physical relationships, and illustrates the relationship between theory and application. The application of physics to everyday situations is highlighted throughout the curriculum. The organizers in this course have been chosen to be representative of physics, and the skills and knowledge provide a solid base for further study. A strong background in mathematics and problem-solving skills is essential.

Where does this course fit?

  • Prerequisites: Science 10 & Foundations of Math & Pre-Calculus 10 are recommended.
  • Graduation Status: One of the Grade 11/12 Science options required for graduation

Course Materials

  • Non-programmable scientific calculator
  • All other materials are provided in the course online

Brief Outline

Unit

Description

StartUp: Introduction

  • Introductory assignment
  • Math 10 review

Unit 1: Math Tools & Review

  • Significant figures & scientific Notation
  • Measurement & metric unit conversions 
  • Graphing & slope 
  • Equation solving & trigonometry

Unit 2: Motion

  • Vectors: displacement, velocity, & acceleration
  • Graphing involving vector quantities
  • Problem solving with vectors

Unit 3: Projectiles

  • Projectile motion: 1D & 2D • Vertical, horizontal, and angled launches

Unit 4: Forces

  • Contact forces – normal, spring, tension, and frictional
  • How forces affect magnitude and direction
  • Newton’s Laws of Motion and free-body diagrams

 Unit 5: 2D Forces

  • Forces involving two-dimensional scenarios (e.g., with simple machines such as ramps and pulleys)

 Unit 6: Energy

  • Conservation of energy 
  • Principal of work and energy 
  • Thermal equilibrium and specific heat capacity 
  • Power and efficiency
Unit 7: Electricity
  • Electric circuits (DC; series vs parallel)
  • Ohm’s Law and Kirchhoff’s Laws
  • Terminal voltage vs electromotive force (EMF)
  • Power and transmission
Unit 8: Waves
  • Generation and propagation of waves (transverse vs longitudinal; linear vs circular)
  • Properties and behaviours of waves
  • Characteristics of sound
  • Resonance and frequency of sound


Assessment Percentage Breakdown

Assessment TypePercentage of the Course
StartUp Assignment1%
Unit Assignments (1 per unit)16%
Unit Quizzes (2 per unit)16%
Unit Tests (1 per unit)16%
Projects (3 total)11%

Midterm Exam (Units 1-4)

10%

Final Exam (Units 1-8)

30%

You have up to a year to complete your course. 

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