Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the curriculum of 11th grade physics classes in the USA, specifically comparing regular and AP Physics classes. Participants share their experiences and insights regarding the topics covered in these courses, as well as the variability in educational offerings across different schools.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- One participant outlines that their AP Physics class covered Optics, Electricity & Magnetism (E&M), Special Relativity, Nuclear Physics, and Thermodynamics, with a significant focus on E&M during the first semester.
- Another participant mentions that their experience in a public school involved a first year of non-AP physics focusing on mechanics, followed by AP physics covering similar topics as previously mentioned.
- Concerns are raised about the variability in physics education, with one participant suggesting that the AP physics exam primarily covers mechanics and E&M, implying that other topics may not be standard in public schools.
- A later reply emphasizes the lack of a single answer regarding the U.S. educational system, suggesting that prospective students should inquire directly with their specific schools for accurate information.
- One participant expresses a desire for more advanced courses, indicating that their school did not offer Calculus BC, which may affect the physics curriculum available to students.
- The original poster expresses hope that their learning experience will align with the topics discussed, particularly regarding E&M.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree that there is significant variability in the physics curriculum across different schools, particularly between AP and regular classes. However, there is no consensus on the specific topics covered, as experiences differ widely.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the lack of detailed information about specific school curricula and the dependence on individual school offerings, which may not represent a broader trend in U.S. education.