Syllabus for Physics
Course: Honors Physics
Teacher: Mr. Leitner
Planning Period: 1st A day
2nd B day
Office: A200
Phone & Extension: (410) 757-1300 Ext. 305/317
E-Mail Address: jleitner@aacps.org
Course Overview: This course will take a detailed look at matter, energy and motion as it pertains to the physical world. In most cases, we will use mathematics as a tool to help describe these phenomena. Laboratory experiments will be used to either help reinforce the theories taught or as discovery activities prior to the introduction of a theory.
Core Learning Goals and Expectations: The main learning goal of this course is to offer you the ability to analyze, interpret and apply the concepts and formulas of physics to everyday world circumstances. Also, this course is designed to help you solidify good study habits for college. Throughout the course, there is also an emphasis on using and understanding current technology.
Grading Procedures: Students will be graded on several forms of evaluation. Grades will be distributed as follows:
Tests: 40%
Labs: 40%
Homework 20%
Homework Policy: Homework will be given on a daily basis and is the students’ responsibility to make certain that it is completed on time. Late homework will not be accepted. Most homework throughout the semester will be mathematical and graphical interpretations of the theories of physics, but you will also be asked to demonstrate written and verbal communication skills on scientific topics. The work must be shown in order to receive full credit for homework.
Materials Needed: Each student must have a three ring binder with three separate sections; Notes, homework and labs. Text books must be brought to class every day. You will also need a scientific calculator for every class period. This does not have to be a graphing calculator.
Classroom Procedures: Most students enrolled in physics classes are college bound and I try to offer you many similar responsibilities that you will be experiencing in a college setting. I ask that everyone follow common rules of respect and that students take on their responsibilities for their own education.
Attendance: It is the responsibility of the student to present the teacher with an admission slip after their absence from a class. I will do my best to remind students, but I am responsible for a large number of students. If an admission slip is not presented to the instructor within a reasonable amount of time, credit will be withheld and the absence will be marked as unexcused! [Please refer to the handbook for this policy.]
Extra Help: I am more than willing to set up a time either before school, after school or even during lunch for tutoring sessions, if you are having difficulties. It is your responsibility to let me know if you are having trouble with the material. The sooner you let me know the better. If I see that you are not completing homework on a regular basis or are simply struggling, I might ask that you come in to get some extra help. If you feel more comfortable with a peer, I will find another student to assist you. There will also be NHS tutoring during Plus period. [refer to the Extra Help section of this website]
NOTE TO PARENTS: In general, I would like your daughter/ son to take their own responsibility for their education. I often deal with students on a personal level to try to modify behavior if I see problems (academic or disruptive) occurring. I do notify parents if I am not achieving results with individual students. If you feel that your daughter/son has special needs in this area, please let me know accordingly.
Feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or concerns about your daughter/ son’s progress or if you have any questions regarding this class. I feel that education is a partnership and I will do my best to respond to any questions as quickly as possible.
