The course follows an outline proposed by the Advanced Placement Board. Students participating in Advanced Placement Chemistry are expected, in addition to requirements of the course, to take the exam as provided by the College Board. For college credit an acceptable score which varies from college to college must be earned. The score does not affect the grade or credit awarded at the local school. Staff Approval Applied Physics is designed to explore phenomena observed in our everyday world.
Emphasis is placed on the study of motion, forces, optics, electricity and magnetism, and energy.
Laboratory work with the proper collection and analysis of data is stressed. Most lab work is done using common objects which the students are already familiar with such as bicycles, toy cars, flashlight components, and slinky. This course is strongly recommended for students who are planning to take additional technical courses. Major emphasis is given to the quantitative applications of classical mechanics and conservation laws. Laboratory work emphasizes the proper collection and analysis of data, as well as the effective presentation of the results in written reports.