Over the past few years, many parents have asked me why we teach Physics to freshmen. I would like to provide some background on our decision and hopefully shed light on a few concerns that are commonly shared.
First and foremost, Physics is a fundamental science for high school students, providing an ideal foundation on which to build wisdom in Chemistry, Biology, and the Earth/Environmental Sciences. The principles of Physics are essential to understanding every major concept in Science from electrons to ecosystems, and our course sequence puts this reality into practice.
Unlike Physical Science courses at many other schools, however, Darlington’s Physics offers both a hands-on introduction to the physical world and ample opportunities for quantitative problem solving. Using a laboratory-rich curriculum, students also experience scientific methodology as they turn careful observations into sound inferences. These basic skills are invaluable as students move to more complex subject areas within and outside of our Science program.
Another major concern that I hear from parents is that the math in a Physics course is too advanced for ninth-graders. On the contrary, our algebra-based Physics course offers application opportunities for the mathematical concepts that students are covering in the eighth and ninth grades. The teachers in the Science department have worked extensively with our Math department over the past two years to align our curricula and to troubleshoot areas where students show deficiencies.
Lastly, offering Physics to freshmen builds greater competency in the areas of quantitative reasoning and problem solving. As our students begin to prepare for the SAT and the ACT, we feel strongly that practice is the key to proficiency. Building on the quantitative skill set introduced in ninth-grade Physics, our upperclassmen can reach higher aptitudes on standardized tests and in more advanced STEM courses (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Adding a required ninth-grade course also ensures that every student that graduates from Darlington will have taken a true Physics course.
Darlington School is eager to make our Physics course a gateway to scientific thinking, and we want to meet your concerns and fears head-on. Please know that our teachers are continuously looking for ways to add relevant experiences and to create a level playing field for all students.
If a student needs help, we encourage them to seek assistance during his/her teacher's office hours. And finally, please feel free to contact classroom teachers directly if you have questions or concerns.
Interested in learning more about Darlington School and its curriculum? Click here to request a campus visit today!
