Learning Physics: How to Improve AP Physics B Grade

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around strategies for improving performance in AP Physics B, particularly in light of a poor test score. Participants share their experiences and seek advice on effective study methods, problem-solving techniques, and resources for learning physics concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration over a low test score and seeks guidance on how to study physics effectively.
  • Another participant questions the specific areas of difficulty, suggesting that understanding the nature of the problems faced could help in finding solutions.
  • Participants identify challenges with concepts and applying them to problems as key issues affecting performance.
  • Some participants recommend creating practice problems to enhance understanding and suggest seeking tutoring for concept clarification.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of drawing diagrams for force problems to reduce mistakes and improve comprehension.
  • Another participant shares their positive experience with the book "Thinking Physics" as a helpful resource.
  • There is a suggestion to engage multiple senses in studying, such as writing in textbooks and verbalizing concepts to reinforce understanding.
  • A participant inquires about online resources for practicing physics problems related to specific topics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of practice and visualization in learning physics, but there are varying opinions on the best methods and resources for studying. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the most effective strategies for individual learning styles.

Contextual Notes

Participants express different levels of understanding and comfort with various aspects of physics, indicating a need for tailored approaches to studying. The discussion does not resolve the specific challenges faced by individuals.

Who May Find This Useful

High school students preparing for AP Physics B, educators looking for insights into student challenges, and anyone interested in effective study strategies for physics.

zzoo4
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SO today,, I got 27/60 on a test... I know it's sad...
it's so shocking that
I really want to put and dedicate on learning physics now. But I just don't know how to but besides studying... Actually.. I just don't know how to study physics...
Just how do you study or learn physics?? and i am talking about AP Physics B in high school..
And yes, It's all to improve my grade..

P.S Sorry, If i post this on a wrong section,, Kind of a newbie here '>';;
 
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Hard to say. Why did you fail? What are you having trouble with?
 
I failed forces... Now i am learning work and energies
 
zzoo4 said:
I failed forces... Now i am learning work and energies

Alright. What were you having trouble with specifically? Any particular aspect of the material? The math? The concepts? Definitions? Applying it to problems?
 
Concepts and applying to problems.. Those types of questions are the ones that always get me on the tests.
 
A few tips:

- Make a lot of practice problems. They'll enhance your understanding.
- Work hard.
- Get somebody to tutor you to explain you the concepts.
 
Are you drawing out every single force problem you do? Much harder to make mistakes when you draw out the problem.
 
Yes I do draw them. But it's like I get confused how to solve it after drawing
 
AH ! so sorry again for posting in wrong section!
 
  • #10
the book Thinking Physics by Lewis Carroll Epstein helped me a lot.
 
  • #11
Oh. Same here. I read physics too at high school and despite how much I study, I always fall into a stupid C+ or B- barely.
 
  • #12
PCSL said:
Are you drawing out every single force problem you do? Much harder to make mistakes when you draw out the problem.

This is essential to becoming more adept in the field. I found that when I drew pictures depicting physics based problems, I could visualize and understand how to complete the problem more accurately. I did that throughout the physics courses I've taken, and on tests. Eventually lead me to taking art classes, but the point on the matter is, start drawing out those problems!

Reason people fail is because they may be more visually inclined so they need that diagram in order to make sense of it all in my opinion.

Other than that, I would study using all the senses (not necessarily smell, but the others) write in the book (professors told us not to, but it beat writing down notes), and talking to yourself about the concepts you've just read and explaining those same concepts to yourself.

If you can explain it to yourself, that means you understood it and will remember it forever, if you cannot, you didn't understand it. If you don't understand it, re-read it a bit more thoroughly noting phrasing patterns, etc...
 
  • #13
Hm those are all good ideas!

Are there any sites where I can practice applying to a actual problem for certain a physics topic?
 

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