CP Physics 9

School Year 2025-2026

7 Credits

 

Teacher: Ms. Willson

Email: willsonl@wellesleyps.org

Office Hours: Every Monday from 2:30-3:05 in Room 440 (unless otherwise specified).

Syllabus Video Transcript.pdf

 

Course Description:

Physics is all about explaining our observations of the universe. This year, we will attempt to explain the behavior of light, waves, sound, electricity, motion, and energy! Emphasis will be placed on observing these concepts in everyday life in order to collect and analyze evidence to discover and understand the patterns that emerge. Students will engage in numerous investigations and lab activities in order to construct their own understanding of the material. Practicing problem-solving, scientific writing, and science inquiry skills will be at the heart of this course. To be successful in this class, come with enthusiasm and a ready-to-learn attitude!

 

Course Sequence:

Sequence subject to change to better accommodate students and schedule.

Semester 1: Light (Reflection & Refraction) Mechanical Waves (Sound & Water) Electromagnetic Waves Static Electricity Circuits Electromagnetism and Magnetic Fields

Semester 2: Constant Velocity Acceleration Forces Momentum Energy

 

Required Course Materials:

You are expected to bring the following materials to class every day:

• Pen or pencil
• A binder with your workbook
• Calculator*
• Charged laptop (or w/charger)
• Headphones

*The subject of Physics is often very math-based. You should bring a calculator daily. If you do not have a graphing or scientific calculator, you do not need to purchase one just for Physics. We have calculators available to use in the classroom.

 

Grading Policy:

The final grade for CP Physics 9 will be calculated according to the following breakdown:

• Quarters 1-4                                             22% each
• Semester Exam/Final Experience           12%

 

Quarter Grade Details:

Tests: 45%

• Tests are paper / pencil in class. Check in with me in advance to take your test in a learning center or use your extended time if you are eligible for it.
• Email me in advance, or as soon as possible if you are absent during the day of the test, so we can reschedule a time for you to take the test.
• If you earn below a 73% on a test you can retake the test to earn up to a 73%.

Labs: 45%

• Most labs will completed on paper. You will work in lab groups to complete the lab, but each student is responsible for submitting their own work.
• Labs turned in late will result in a deduction of your class participation grade.

Homework: 5%

• Homework will be assigned nightly and listed on Canvas.
• Homework is checked for completion, not accuracy, since this is time for you to practice the concepts we have learned without penalty. If you are struggling with a problem, you still need to TRY, given the methods we have discussed in class. If you get stuck, that is OK, but try not to just skip the problem.

Class Participation: 5%

• You are expected to come to class on time, ready to learn, respect for both your peers and teachers, and be engaged in the day's activities. Participation is expected. You should try to contribute to class each day. See grading rubric for further details.

 

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Graded assignments are posted on the Canvas Calendar and in PowerSchool. Students are expected to check assignments and grades often.
• ALL late work must be turned in by the day of the unit test to receive credit. If you have an extenuating circumstance, please discuss it with me so we can work out the best way for you to stay up to date and be successful in class!
• There is no extra credit - be proactive, and not reactive about your grade! Email me or talk to me if you have any concerns!

 

Extra Help:

There are so many resources available for you to be successful in this course. Use these resources as needed throughout the year. Be proactive and seek help when you need it!

• Ms. Willson's office hours: Mondays from 2:30 - 3:05 in Room 440
• Science Resource Center - drop in during any physics intervention times in 257!
• CP Help Center - A place where you can get help in CP English, CP History, and CP Physics!
  • A-block on Day 2 and Day 5 (Room 229)

 

Absences:

• If you are absent from class, check the daily log and Canvas for the work to complete. You can also email me to discuss what you missed and the best way to catch you up.
• If you will be out for an extended period, please let me know so we can work out a way to catch you up!

• If I am absent, I will communicate my expectations for class through a Canvas announcement. I expect work assigned on classes that I am out to be completed.

 

Student Engagement Expectations:

• Be patient and kind to both yourself, your peers, and your teachers. Help create a welcoming classroom environment where everyone can succeed.
• Be respectful of class equipment. Use it only as it was designated to used. Follow lab safety guidelines at all times.
• Cell phones will be put on silent and placed in their designated area upon entering the classroom. Headphones, smartwatches, and any other technology are expected to be put away during class. These items will remain where they are for the duration of the class. If a student needs to access their phone please ask for permission.
• Cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated in any way. If you are stuck on an assignment, ask for help! Procedures as outlined by the Student Handbook will be followed if anyone is caught copying others work or letting someone else copy their own work.  Penalties for cheating will be determined on a case by case basis.  Please be mindful of doing your own work on Google Docs.