Starting high-school physics. Any tips?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around tips for succeeding in high school physics, particularly for a student who has completed pre-calculus and will be taking the course online. Participants share their perspectives on the perceived difficulty of the course and strategies for effective learning.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that high school physics may not be as difficult as commonly perceived, especially for dedicated students.
  • Another participant notes that students may be taking the course alongside calculus students, implying that calculus knowledge may not be strictly necessary for success in physics.
  • It is proposed that students can either derive relationships between physics and calculus or use supplementary resources to aid their understanding.
  • Some participants emphasize the importance of dedication and time management, suggesting that while the material may be new, it can be mastered with effort.
  • Practical tips are offered, including drawing diagrams, estimating answers before calculations, and checking units.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that high school physics may not be overly challenging for dedicated students, but there are varying opinions on the level of difficulty and the best approaches to learning the material.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about prior exposure to physics and the relationship between physics and calculus are present, but these are not universally agreed upon.

-Dragoon-
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I've just finished pre-calculus with an A+, so the math won't be much of a problem. Due to some unfortunate circumstances, I will have to take the course online before I can do grade 12 physics in school.

I was just wondering tips on succeeding in this course and the do's and don'ts? Is it really as difficult as people say it is? Thanks in advance.
 
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High school physics is most-likely not as difficult as people say.

Especially for a dedicated student.
 
Most likely you will be taking the class with many people in Calculus. Most likely, there will be no strict Calculus requirement in your physics course. Most likely, you are intelligent and can either derive the relations between physics and calculus (alternatively, get a good book :D) or pick up the material at a great rate.

Most likely, it will be the easiest class you will ever have. This is a problem! Challenge yourself, somehow...
 
I don't think HS physics will be much of a challenge as long as you dedicate yourself to the material. As an introductory course into an entire new subject area, it might take a bit longer to digest the material (unless you had some exposure prior). So, make sure you have plenty of time to study and always ask questions and you should be fine.
 
Draw a diagram
Estimate the answer before hitting the calculator
Check your units
 

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