FAQs > (Questions About Physics)
Questions About Physics
Q: Should students enroll in Physics, Honors Physics, or AP® Physics B?
A: Here is a quick description of each course.
- Physics is an intro-level course with an emphasis on concepts. A lab is included. Note that this is a complete course.
- Honors Physics is a full-year or one-semester block course for students with career plans in science, math, engineering, medicine, and similar fields. It provides a track for students who want to learn physics at a high level, but who are not interested in the full AP® Physics B program.
- Advanced Placement® Physics B is a one-year course for students with career plans in science, math, engineering, medicine, and similar fields. It uses college textbooks, syllabi, homework, and tests, to provide students with a rigorous preparation for the AP® Physics B test and the Medical College Aptitude Test.
Q: Do students have to take Physics before taking Honors or AP® Physics B?
A: No, Physics is not a prerequisite for Honors or AP® Physics B.
Q: Are there any prerequisites for physics courses?
A: KET requires students to complete Algebra II before enrolling in any of the three physics classes.
Q: Are there labs involved? If so, what equipment will I need?
A: Physics includes a lab component. There is a two-part lab kit required for this course, which is purchased through Arbor Scientific. The School Kit costs approximately $45. One of these is needed per school. In addition, one student kit should be purchased for each group of three students. The cost of this kit is approximately $144. Neither of these is necessary at the start of the course. The kits come into play at about mid-course.
AP® Physics includes a virtual lab, approved by the College Board.
Q: Can I take these courses on a block schedule?
A: Physics and Honors Physics can be taken on a one or two semester block schedule or on a traditional full-year schedule. AP® Physics B must be taken on a full year schedule.
Q: How is testing and grading handled in physics courses?
A: In Physics, the facilitator grades the tests and labs using a key supplied by the teacher.
In Honors Physics and AP® Physics, exams are mailed in to the teacher for grading.
In all courses, homework is graded by an on-line system. Students may re-try missed question and get assistance from the teacher.
Q: Can any of the physics courses be taken as independent study?
A: Yes, Honors Physics and AP® Physics B courses are available by independent study.
Q: If students take AP® Physics B, do they have to take the AP exam?
A: No. Taking the AP exam is encouraged, but not required. Most students who complete this course earn a 4 or a 5 on the AP exam. Since this is good for some amount of course credit at most universities, there is both an educational and economic reason for planning to take the AP exam.