Overview:

Physics, the study of matter and energy, is an extremely interesting and relevant science. The course is broad and focuses on the real life application of the most fundamental topics of physics, many of which have been introduced in Junior Cycle. Central to the course will be the development of the pupils experimental skills, computational abilities and the analysis and presentation of data.

Course Content:

The pupils will be receive a subject folder which will be populated with topic notes and written assignments over the course of each term. Designed to be flexible the course module topics will vary from year to year. Topics include - Motion and Energy, Heat and Temperature, Electricity and Magnetism, Medical Physics, Light and Optics and Electronics. In all cases we attempt to focus on aspects of the topics not covered in the Leaving Certificate course while building on the pupils mathematical skills and conception knowledge. The key focus to develop a strong skill base in critical thinking and problem solving. Class expeditions include trips to Funderland, Tayto Park (Amusement Park Physics), Dublin Fire Brigade (Heat Energy), DIT (CanSat - Rocketry and Space Science) and Trinity (Crann - Nanotechnology). Pupils are also encouraged to participate in Young Scientist.

Teaching & Learning:

Physics is an experimental science and all modules include hands-on design thinking or STEM based activities. A strong emphasis is placed on inquiry based learning using classroom and online resources. Group work is essential to developing collaborative and critical thinkers, thus core to all modules.

Assessment:

Pupil progress and assessment will be on a continuous basis for all three terms.

Written assignments 10%

Class tasks and research projects 10%

Investigations and report writing 20%

Term examination 60%

Additional Information:

A Transition Year Physics page can be found in FireFly

http://stcolumbas.fireflycloud.net/physics/transition-year---physics

This contains course notes, videos, revision aids and links to many online resources.