This introductory program integrates calculus and calculus-based physics with topics from relevant areas of history and scientific literature to explore how scientists make sense of the physical world and how it works. Students will be supported to develop a firm background in college-level science, becoming prepared for further work in the mathematical and physical sciences.
Scientists gather data, make observations, look for patterns, build models, and use those models to predict behavior. Powerful models in physics help us explain interactions involving matter and energy; such understanding forms the essential background for our modern technological society. New models require new mathematical methods—for example, calculus was developed partly to understand models of motion. Even with powerful mathematics, a model may yield answers only in simplified circumstances. Learning how to create and apply mathematical and computational methods to models in physics will be one of the major goals of this program.
The program will include an experimental component to explore and analyze the nature of mathematical and physical systems. Workshops and seminar discussions will also allow for collaborative work on math and physics problems as well as an opportunity to explore connections between science and society in theory and practice. The program is intended for students with solid high school-level backgrounds in science and mathematics; in particular, a good grasp of precalculus (including algebra and trigonometry) is required. Equally important for success is a work ethic that combines curiosity and perseverance, and an interest in learning in groups.
The work will be intensive and challenging at times, but also exciting; students should expect to spend at least 50 hours per week engaged with material during and outside of class. The program will include readings, lectures, labs, workshops, seminars, projects, frequent homework sets, quizzes, and exams; students will have multiple opportunities to demonstrate the knowledge they have gained in each of these settings. Students who successfully complete both quarters of the program will have covered material equivalent to a year of calculus and calculus-based physics with lab and will be prepared for upper-division work in mathematics and physics.
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:
Fall:
6 - Calculus I (differential calculus and an introduction to integral calculus)
8 - Physics I with Lab (motion and dynamics of particles, gravitation, vibration, and waves)
2 - Science and Society Seminar
Winter:
6 - Calculus II (techniques and application of integration, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and series)
8 - Physics II with Lab (electricity and magnetism, optics, and topics in modern physics)
2 - Group Projects
Registration
Proficiency in precalculus, including algebra and trigonometry, is required.
Students will need to demonstrate prerequisite knowledge equivalent to mathematics and physics content covered in fall quarter. Contact David McAvity (mcavityd@evergreen.edu) for more information.
Academic Details
mathematics, physics, other natural sciences, engineering, and math and science education
Fall: $100 for a physics supply kit ($50) and lab access ($50)
Winter: $50 for lab access
Students will need to have devices capable of scientific calculation and graphing, such as graphing calculators or (recommended) smartphones/tablets/laptops with appropriate software.