Grade 11 Physics, University Preparation

Teacher: Mrs. J. Sterk

Textbook: McGraw-Hill Ryerson Physics 11

Description / Rationale
This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will
explore kinematics, with an emphasis on linear motion; different kinds of forces; energy
transformations; the properties of mechanical waves and sound; and electricity and magnetism.
They will enhance their scientific investigation skills as they test laws of physics. In addition,
they will analyse the interrelationships between physics and technology, and consider the
impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.

Unit Titles
Unit 1 Kinematics 24 hours
Unit 2 Forces 20 hours
Unit 3 Energy and Society 20 hours
Unit 4 Waves and Sound 22 hours
Unit 5 Electricity And Magnetism 24 hours

Unit 1: Kinematics
In this unit, the technological applications of motion and societal influences on transportation
and safety issues are studied. The students develop an understanding of the relationships
between position, time, velocity, and acceleration by using graphs, mathematical equations, and
vector diagrams.

Unit 2: Forces
During this unit, the focus in on forces as the means by which an object’s motion is changed.
Students will learn how Newton’s laws of motion have led to technological developments that
affect society and the environment. Hands-on investigation, as well as free body diagrams and
calculations, will lead to a deeper understanding of the concept of dynamics.

Unit 3: Energy and Society

In this unit, students will analyse the costs and benefits of various energy sources and energy-
transformation technologies that are used around the world, and explain how the application of
scientific principles related to mechanical energy has led to the enhancement of sports and
recreational activities. Students will gain an understanding of the concepts of work, energy,
energy transformations, efficiency, and power. They will design and carry out experiments and
solve problems involving energy transformations and the law of conservation of energy.

Unit 4: Waves and Sound

Students will describe and explain ways in which mechanical waves and sound are produced in
nature, and evaluate the contributions to entertainment, health, and technologies that make
use of mechanical waves and sound. Students will gain an understanding of the properties of
mechanical waves and sound and the principles underlying the production, transmission,
interaction, and reception of mechanical waves and sound.
Unit 5: Electricity and Magnetism
Students evaluate social, economic, and environmental costs and benefits associated with
electromagnetic fields and electrical energy production and distribution in Canada. Students
gain an understanding of electromagnetic fields through a study of their production. Using a
variety of instruments and tools, they develop skills using qualitative and quantitative analysis.
Students apply their knowledge of electromagnetic fields to design and construct devices that
perform a specific function.

Evaluation:

Student marks will be calculated according to the following weighting:

Knowledge/Understanding (tests/quizzes) 25%

Thinking/Inquiry and Scientific Communication 30%
Application and Oral/Written Communication 15%

Final Examination 30%

Notes
If you miss a class for any reason, it is your responsibility to catch up on any notes you may have
missed. If you miss a test, you will be expected to write on your first day back, unless other
arrangements are made. Assignments must also be handed in on the first day back. Late
assignments are subject to a penalty of 10% per day.

Come to class prepared every day. This means you must have with you: laptop, binder,
paper/notebook, textbook, writing utensils, calculator and anything else you think you may
need.