Introductory Physics Skills Standards

In addition to the physics content, an equally important part of the course is the science skills that the students develop. These science skills should, we believe, provide a strong base for all of the students’ future science courses at North.

Students will:

Estimation

  • be able to produce a number that provides an order of magnitude comparison for a possible measurement, using appropriate units for distance, area, volume, and time.
  • be able to explain how they reach their destinations
  • know the approximate metric prefix of something.
  • not be afraid to estimate.
  • have a good idea of the size of a centimeter and a meter.
  • be able to make rough estimates of physical size and quantities WITHOUT A CALCULATOR.

Measurement

  • be able to select, read, and use appropriate linear scale tools (ruler, thermometers) to one degree of precision greater than the tool scale.
  • understand the prefixes of the system (mili, kili, centi, and micro).
  • understand the SI system's standard units for mass, length, and time.
  • know conversions between inches and centimeters, inches and feet, feet and miles (or kilometers and miles) seconds and minutes, and minutes and hours.
  • be able to convert between the prefixes of the metric system.
  • know the difference between precision and accuracy.
  • have a reasonable idea of the limitations of their measuring tools.

Data

  • know that numbers should be recorded with one unsure digit and correct units.
  • understand that data should be clearly labeled and organized.
  • know that data is always recorded at the time of observation.
  • make sensible forms or tables prior to recording data.

Errors

  • be able to identify sources and estimate sizes of errors for equipment used and raw data collected.
  • be able to determine cumulative size of error in results, after processing data.
  • be able to correctly calculate averages, deviations, and average deviations and use them to report and discuss results and errors.

Solving Problems with Numbers

  • be able to determine what is being asked for.
  • identify information given, including type of information and units.
  • be able to show and explain work.
  • identify and apply suitable strategy, formulae, constants, life experience etc., to solve the problem.
  • determine if the result is reasonable (using common sense and estimating skills).
  • report/communicate any results with correct precision and units.

Science Writing

  • express and communicate ideas, observations, and information in an organized way.
  • produce lab reports that clearly record and communicate what, why and how an experiment was done, results and conclusions from the experiment.
  • write conclusions that would communicate to a person unfamiliar with the experiment what you were trying to find, how you did this, what the overall results were, and how certain you are of the results.
  • always acknowledge collaborators on written work.
  • never plagiarize as described in "Student's Rights and Responsibilities."
  • quote and cite works used to the standards of the NNHS orange book.

Collaboration

  • listen to and communicate ideas usefully with other group members in order to achieve a group goal.
  • recognize and utilize the skills and abilities of all group members.
  • reflect the core values of Newton North.

Reading

  • read science literature (at the level of "Conceptual Physics" or the New York Times) to be able to synthesize answers to specific questions.
  • read science literature and be able to correctly summarize it in writing.

Troubleshooting

  • be able to find and fix a problem with equipment or experimental design using methods of troubleshooting iteration.

Tests

  • develop and utilize successful methods of reviewing for quizzes/tests.
  • read and follow instructions correctly.
  • answer all questions fully and completely.
  • develop and utilize test-taking strategies.

Organization and Time Management

  • keep all science materials accessible and organized.
  • bring any needed materials to class.
  • have a working system for recording assignments and tests, with requirements and due dates.
  • break tasks down and manage time to allow successful timely completion, including seeking help as needed.
  • complete and submit all work on time.
  • ask for help as needed and allow time to do this.

Graphs

  • always make proper graphs: Title, labeled axes, independent variable on the x axis, useful and correct scaling of axes, proper numbered scales, units on axes, legend, origin, all points plotted correctly.
  • select graphical/pictorial representations that best describe data.
  • on graphs connect dots to draw best-fit lines or curves as appropriate for data.
  • be able to understand, interpret, and communicate information contained in graphs (including using slopes).

Experimental Design

  • be able to identify dependent and independent variables.
  • given a simple objective (i.e. "find the speed of sound") be able to plan a safe procedure to collect the necessary data, including material, personnel, and time needs.