Untitled - Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University, it may be inferred that the current high school physics program lacks
the mathematical rigor of a first year university physics course. Students who do AP
illS
physir.s in high school are exposed to the mathematical complexities nearer to first year of
university physics, hence arc better prepared for the challenge of first year physics at
Memorial University. Moreover, students who have a strong mathematics background
have a greater opportunity to grasp mathematically complex physics concepts. Students
who have a command of the necessary mathematics skills required for first year of
university physics Ciln spend more time on concept acquisition than on acquiring the
required mathematics skills.
AI" physics appears to be a logical alternative for students who are planning to
pursue physics beyond high school. Its breadth, and depth of concept coverage, in
addition to its mathematical treatment of concepts, prepares students for the academic
challenge of first year university physics. In addition, students should ensure that they
have a strong mathematics background. However, if students do not have access to an
AI" physics course they can enhance their chances of success in first year of university
physics by enrolling in chemistry and advanced mathematics.
Although the AI" physics course offered in Newfoundland and Labrador (Physics
B) is algebra-based, this does not imply that mathematics is not as important as it is in firsl
year university physics. The same concerns still exist, and students should ensure Ihal they
have a solid mathematical background. Too often AI" physics teachers will have to take
valuable time to address mathematics topics to ensure that students will be able to apply