Astronomy

Astronomy is the study of the physical universe.  It deals with the structure, motions, and changes in the universe.  This course is an introduction to astronomy.  Topics to be covered include:  the apparent motion of the stars; observing the skies; astronomical instruments and measurement methods; the physics and chemistry of stars; types of stars and star systems; the life cycles of stars; the structure, properties, and motions of the bodies in the solar system, including the Sun, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, etc.; stellar objects such as galaxies, quasars, pulsars, and black holes; the structure of the universe; cosmology.  Some mathematics will be used in the course, so the student should have a working knowledge of algebra and geometry.  

Honors

Physics I

This is an introductory physics course for those students planning to pursue a technical major in college such as chemistry, physics, engineering, or medicine.  It will cover various topics in physics such as motion, heat, waves, optics, nuclear physics, or relativity with strong emphasis on both theoretical concepts and problem-solving.  Extensive use of mathematics is made, including the quadratic formula, interpreting graphs, simultaneous equations, the Pythagorean theorem, trig, scientific notation, and other math skills.  Each subject area will include theory, demonstrations, and laboratory experiments.  In addition, each nine weeks the students may be required to complete a project in which they apply the concepts learned in class.  A one-day-a-week lab accompanies this course. 

The emphasis this year will be on classical mechanics, gravitation, and Einstein's  general theory of relativity. 

Honors

Physics II

This is a second year of mathematical physics for those who will be taking a technical major in college and want to prepare as thoroughly as possible.  The emphasis in this course will be on classical electromagnetic field theory, including the behavior of charges and magnets, electric and magnetic fields, Maxwell's equations of electromagnetism, and electromagnetic waves.  Advanced mathematical methods such as calculus, matrices, vector multiplication, and unit vectors will be used.  Strong emphasis is placed on solving a variety of challenging problems.  A two-day-a-week lab accompanies this course, and students will learn  basic electronics, soldering, and circuit assembly.