Physics

Full-year course. This course will provide a survey of basic principles in physics topics including but not limited to force and motion, properties of atoms and phases of matter, thermodynamics, sound and light waves, electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics topics including relativity and quantum mechanics. The class is structured in the manner of a “flipped” classroom, in which students will watch a video and read material from the textbook to prepare them for a class meeting focused on discussion and mastery of the material. Class assignments and assessments will focus on both conceptual topics and the use of relevant equations. Upon completion of the Physics course, successful students will have a mastery of introductory concepts and principles of physics as well as an ability to think scientifically. Students will become more adept at applying their mathematical and conceptual knowledge of physics and the scientific method to real scenarios, interpreting data and the results of scientific investigations, and thoughtfully engaging in scientific discourse.

Prerequisite: Students should be comfortable with concepts covered in Algebra II, like solving systems of equations for unknowns. Pre-Calculus is helpful but not required; however, students will need to become familiar with the basic principles of adding vectors.




We use this class as an example when talking with friends who are considering homeschooling options but are concerned with online learning, especially regarding science. As with many of the WTMA courses, this class covers the material in extensive detail, challenges the students to think deeply about the concepts and how they relate to the world, and really motivates the students to take control of their learning. Compared with peers taking AP Physics at public/private schools, we are constantly amazed at how much more our student is learning, how much more comfortable she is with the material and coursework even though there is more material to read, etc., and how well versed she is in the subject matter. I believe the manner in which the curriculum is prepared and taught has a lot to do with why our student is so enthusiastic about learning and has done so well in high school. This is the beauty of the WTMA and the rhetoric stage of classical education.
- Parent Course Evaluation




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    Physics Information




    • Example Syllabus
    • Class meets twice per week for 50-55 minutes.
    • Class cap: 15 students.
    • Designed for grades 10-12.
    • High school students may be awarded 1 Non-Lab Science credit upon completion of this course. A student will earn a full laboratory science credit if taking a non-lab science and the corresponding lab together. 

    Course Materials




    • Click here to purchase the course materials.
      • Conceptual Physics, 12th edition
      • A scientific calculator (such as Texas Instruments TI-30X IIS) is required for this course. Online scientific calculators can also be used, but they are discouraged because they tie the student to the computer/internet for homework.


    Expand for More Course Resources


    You may also like...


    Physics Lab

    One-semester with full-year option. For high school students.


    Learn More

    Math Club

    One-semester club. For middle and high school students.


    Learn More