Academic Guidance Question- Getting Started

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on strategies for learning physics without a prior background in the subject or calculus. The individual seeks guidance on resources and books to facilitate their understanding, particularly in relating calculus concepts to physical concepts like position, velocity, and acceleration. Recommendations include utilizing library resources and engaging with physics books to build foundational knowledge. The importance of supplementary learning outside of structured environments, such as clubs, is emphasized.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of algebra concepts, including functions and graphing.
  • Familiarity with introductory calculus concepts, particularly limits and derivatives.
  • Knowledge of fundamental physics principles, such as motion and forces.
  • Access to educational resources, such as libraries or online platforms like Physics Classroom.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore introductory physics textbooks, such as "Conceptual Physics" by Paul Hewitt.
  • Utilize online resources like Khan Academy for foundational calculus and physics lessons.
  • Practice problems related to motion using calculus, focusing on position, velocity, and acceleration.
  • Join online forums or study groups to discuss physics concepts and clarify doubts.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students new to physics, particularly those without a strong mathematical background, as well as educators seeking to support learners in building foundational knowledge in physics and calculus.

cncbmb
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Hi. How would you start learning physics if you had no background in it? -If you hadn't taken calculus yet?

Here is my situation:
I have no background in physics.
I haven't taken algebra 2 yet.
At my school, algebra 2 is pretty much a class about very basic algebra again with a little graphing, functions, logarithms, matrices, vectors, basic trigonometry, and a mixed bag of unrelated math topics.
I went to my school's physics club and am being taught elementary topics in calculus. It is going fine although I am still slow at reading the symbols I'm new to. I'm having the most difficulty with relating calculus to position, velocity, and acceleration when the teacher at the club is explaining things.
I want to learn outside the club as well since no handouts or assigned readings are being handed out during the club.

What would you do if you were in my position?
What books would you recommend to me?
What resources would you recommend to me?
 
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cncbmb said:
Hi. How would you start learning physics if you had no background in it? -If you hadn't taken calculus yet?

Here is my situation:
I have no background in physics.
I haven't taken algebra 2 yet.
At my school, algebra 2 is pretty much a class about very basic algebra again with a little graphing, functions, logarithms, matrices, vectors, basic trigonometry, and a mixed bag of unrelated math topics.
I went to my school's physics club and am being taught elementary topics in calculus. It is going fine although I am still slow at reading the symbols I'm new to. I'm having the most difficulty with relating calculus to position, velocity, and acceleration when the teacher at the club is explaining things.
I want to learn outside the club as well since no handouts or assigned readings are being handed out during the club.

What would you do if you were in my position?
What books would you recommend to me?
What resources would you recommend to me?

Don't worry, your not the only one in algebra who this has happened to, but there are libraries, and you can read every physics book in the library and ask people things you don't really understand

source: been there , read nearly every book of physics in the library
 

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