How can I learn physics as a kinesthitics learner?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Feelsgreatman
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    learner Physics
AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around seeking advice for studying physics and understanding the universe, particularly from the perspective of a high school freshman. The individual has been advised by peers to read Feynman's lectures on physics, despite concerns about their mathematical prerequisites. Key points include the importance of a solid foundation in mathematics, starting with Algebra and progressing through higher-level math, as essential for grasping physics concepts. The conversation emphasizes that while laboratory work can enhance learning, mastering the basics is crucial before advancing. It distinguishes between the pursuit of understanding natural sciences and the application of that knowledge in engineering, suggesting a structured approach to learning physics and math to achieve long-term goals in invention and innovation.
Feelsgreatman
Messages
3
Reaction score
1
Summary: need advice

Not to take up too much time but my purpose is to see some advice for my journey in the rules to the universe. BTW I'm a freshman in high school and a lot of the kids in the physics club say "You should read Feynman's lectures on physics to start" even though people say you shouldn't really do it unless you understand math very well (I finished most of ap physics 1 for a khan academy course). Sorry if I'm in the wrong thread to ask.

(P.S My guess is lab work combined with some other learning styles like auditory or visual.)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Feelsgreatman said:
Not to take up too much time but my purpose is to see some advice for my journey in the rules to the universe.
Welcome to PF! Could you be more specific about what your goals are?
 
You are worrying too much about the hyperbolic figurative descriptions and recommendations that you have heard from other people. While still early in high school, Study Mathematics starting with Algebra 1, and continue onward each year from this; study Earth Science, and as soon as officially qualified, the Physics course available at your high school. This advice is important but not nearly enough. Other members no doubt may have more to add.

Your title of topic asks how to learn if you're a "kinesthetic" learner. This is irrelevant. Or maybe MOSTLY somewhat irrelevant. Natural Sciences usually will have laboratory exercises & activities. This is about at kinesthetic as can usually be done for helping in study and learn Natural Sciences. Including Physics.
 
  • Like
Likes BvU and berkeman
My best learning of Physics in the 9th grade was through a Physical Science class with excellent laboratories. The math was not too hard - mostly 3 letter formulas.

You might read Feynman and see how that goes. But he also has lots of videos available that high school students I've mentored have found more informative and inspiring than reading the lectures. You might start here:

 
  • Like
Likes russ_watters and berkeman
russ_watters said:
Welcome to PF! Could you be more specific about what your goals are?
My end-all goal is to help achieve a better understanding of the universe (basically invent stuff), yet I find that in order to get to that level, you need to work your way up the ladder. I'm currently learning Feynman's lectures (because people in my physics club recommended it to me) in order to solve problems from f=ma exams.
 
Feelsgreatman said:
My end-all goal is to help achieve a better understanding of the universe (basically invent stuff),
Those two are very very very different goals. Search for Understanding is what most of natural science is. Designing things and Inventing is the application of the sciences and is what Engineering is all about.
yet I find that in order to get to that level, you need to work your way up the ladder.
okay.
I'm currently learning Feynman's lectures (because people in my physics club recommended it to me) in order to solve problems from f=ma exams.
Go ahead. No harm in doing that.
 
It is important to remember not to try to advance too quickly. It is very important to master the basics. Assure that you will be prepared for the challenges of physics by establishing a firm background in math. Feynman's Lectures assume some knowledge of Calculus about half way through Vol I and assumes a god knowledge of algebra, geometry and trig throughout. Be solid in your math ability.
 
Back
Top