Should I take physics as a freshman?

  • Thread starter Thread starter gmac1356
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Freshman Physics
Click For Summary
The discussion centers on the decision to take physics as a freshman at Brooklyn Tech High School, particularly for a student who excels in algebra and enjoys complex math. The student has a positive background in physics from middle school and is considering their readiness for the high school course. Recommendations emphasize the importance of understanding the math prerequisites, specifically algebra and trigonometry, for success in physics. It is advised to consult with the physics teacher over the summer for guidance on preparation and to assess whether the course is algebra/trig-based or calculus-based. The consensus is that if the student has not yet taken the necessary math courses, it may be wiser to wait, as there will be opportunities to take physics in subsequent years without jeopardizing academic performance.
gmac1356
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
I am pretty good at algebra and all, and i like real complicated math that makes me think really deeply... next year i would be going to brooklyn tech high school and i am not sure whether to take physics as a freshman. I took a class on physics in my middle school and really liked it and understood it. I'm the type that's really smart at math and my teachers tell me it would be hard but they think i could do it ... so any recommendations anyone?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I would see if you can get in touch with the teacher of the physics class over the summer and see if he can give you some problems from the book or see what his recommendations are. You might need certain math that you haven't taken yet to be successful.
 
Most first year physics courses are algebra/trig based. You will need to know some trig and a lot of algebra. If this is a calc-based course I would definitely not take it if you only have taken algebra lol. If you don't take it freshman year, you still have 3 more years to take it so don't rush and screw up your grade.
 
Where I from colleges make you take cal before starting on my courses for my major! Also if you are a physics major I would take basic courses first semester. I know everyone says that but believe me it makes a difference!
 
TL;DR: Jackson or Zangwill for Electrodynamics? Hi, I want to learn ultrafast optics and I am interested in condensed matter physics, ie using ultrafast optics in condensed matter systems. However, before I get onto ultrafast optics I need to improve my electrodynamics knowledge. Should I study Jackson or Zangwill for Electrodynamics? My level at the moment is Griffiths. Given my interest in ultrafast optics in condensed matter, I am not sure which book is better suited for me. If...

Similar threads

Replies
41
Views
6K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
7K
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K