Physics

SPH3U introduces students to the fundamental principles of physics and develops their understanding through experimentation, application, and problem-solving.

• Students explore motion forces
• Energy
• Waves
• Electricity,

while learning to interpret real-world phenomena using scientific models. The course emphasizes inquiry-based learning and prepares students for future studies in physics, engineering, and other STEM fields.

Unit 1: Kinematics
Students examine the motion of objects and learn how to describe, measure, and analyze motion.
Lessons include:

• Scalar and Vector Quantities
• Position-Time and Velocity-Time Graphs
• Uniform and Accelerated Motion
• Solving Kinematics Equations
• Real-World Applications of Motion

Unit 2: Forces
This unit explores how forces affect motion and introduces Newton's laws.
Lessons include:

• Force Diagrams and Types of Forces
• Newton’s First, Second, and Third Laws
• Friction, Tension, and Normal Forces
• Applications in Real-World Systems
• Free Body Diagrams

Unit 3: Energy and Work
Students investigate mechanical energy, work, and power
Lessons include:

• Kinetic and Potential Energy
• Work and Work-Energy Theorem
• Power and Efficiency
• Conservation of Energy
• Energy Transformations and Applications

Unit 4: Waves and Sound
This unit introduces the properties of waves and how they apply to sound.
Lessons include:

• Types of Waves and Wave Properties
• Reflection, Refraction, and Interference
• Sound Waves and the Doppler Effect
• Applications in Acoustics and Technology

Unit 5: Electricity and Magnetism
Students explore electric circuits, current, voltage, resistance, and magnetic fields.
Lessons include:

• Static and Current Electricity
• Ohm’s Law and Series/Parallel Circuits
• Electrical Energy and Power
• Magnetic Fields and Electromagnetic Induction
• Practical Circuit Design

• 70% of the final grade is based on coursework, including:
  • Assignments, lab reports, and problem-solving sets
  • Graph analysis and scenario-based physics challenges
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 10% Culminating physics investigation or project
  • 20% Final exam covering all five units

All evaluations follow the Ontario curriculum and promote critical thinking, analytical skills, and scientific literacy in understanding the physical world.