On kinematics and the core equations of physics

[Ehren Dancy]

As a physics student this year and from what Mr. Fisher said at the beginning of the year about how normally the first test of the year isn't the best, I have had some thoughts about that test. I understand that the concept of ITS isn't always that simple to understand, and that the first test won't be the best, because students aren't sure about what to do and how to study for these types of test. Understand that I am not disagreeing with the concepts of ITS or its application, I am disagreeing with the material we are tested on. I think that students should be tested on the core equations first, and then have the kinematic equations introduced, so that it makes the transition from one concept to the next simpler. Personally, I wold get confused about which equations to use, because I was offered so many of them. The first test of the year, was loaded. In the sense, that it covered(and required) information that held a great quantity. I think that if the first unit was separated, students would gain a better grasp on the differences between core equations, such as acceleration is equal to velocity over time, and finding the final velocity of something.

[Mr Fisher]

Mr Scott, who teaches Physics I Advance, actually does a test on just equations ---- how to read a problem, set it up, and select the correct equation using the EOC Reference Tables. I do think I may try that next year to see if it helps students do well on the 1st test on kinematics. However, it is also my observation that the first physics test in any class is a challenge for most students. Maybe emphasizing the "Fisher" method more---and doing more Do(K)nows would help too!

Bottom line - I am also convinced no matter what I do, (except making a "feel good" test where everyone gets a 90 or higher!) - the class average for kinematics will be between 72 and 77. There's no substitute for experience.