Core Unit I: The Physics of Everyday Things

A. Introduction to Physics

Key Concepts

Physics is the study of natural phenomena. It presents a world view which is unique and internally consistent.

Things such as mechanics, heat, wave behaviour, electricity and magnetism, nuclear physics, and particle physics all are important in the study of physics.

The different disciplines in science developed for various reasons. Scientists channelled their investigations towards specific things. Universities and the established scientific community developed compartmentalized institutions.

All things are interrelated. Distinctions and divisions among major branches of science are often arbitrary and confining. Branches within the disciplines (i.e., biophysics, geophysics, etc.) have developed in recognition of the need to examine things in different ways.

Observation is an essential part of science. By observing the world around us, key questions can be raised. This might lead to experimentation, in which more observations are made, leading in turn to more questions.

Physics is an unending exploration of discovery. New things are always being learned .

Nothing in science can be regarded as being absolutely certain. All things are tentative.

Learning Outcomes

Students will increase their abilities to:

Formulate a response to the question: "What is physics?".
Identify some of the topics often studied within the realm of physics .
Recognize that different disciplines have evolved in science.
Suggest some reasons why different disciplines exist within science.
Give an example of a situation in which a person studying physics might need to know something about the other disciplines within science.
Demonstrate that observation is an essential part of science.
Recognize that new things are always being learned in science.
Point out that all things in science are tentative.

Teaching Suggestions, Activities and Demonstrations

Develop a concept map to show how the different disciplines in science are interrelated.