Physics with Lab (with Honors option)

Class Time:  9:00-11:00

Grade Level: 11th-12th (10th with special permission)

Instructor: Laura Burke

Contact Information: lauraburke703@gmail.com 

Course Description:  This high school physics class explores classical physics via study of material substances, mechanics (including motion, force, work, and energy), thermodynamics, wave phenomena and electricity and magnetism.  Discussion on the topics of modern physics (quantum theory and special relativity) will round out the year.  The class will be offered with two options:  Conceptual (for those interested in a less mathematical class) and Basic (on-level high school class with more mathematical rigor).  If there is enough interest, an Honors option will also be offered. The options are differentiated by test and homework questions, primarily. Students should expect several hours each week of independent reading and homework.  In-class labs and activities serve to elucidate and clarify the concepts covered in the text.  Two field trips will be scheduled outside of the regular class time:  Carousel Physics and Coffeehouse Physics.  Additionally, a Light Lab and Jello Party will be scheduled in the spring.  Tests will be completed at home.  

Review sessions and additional meetings will be offered on occasional Thursdays, typically by Zoom and recorded for those who can’t attend. These will be optional meetings designed to help students who want additional help. 

Tuition: $400

Class Size: 6-20

Course Materials: Physics: The Foundational Science (Abeka); Text, Test Booklet, and Text Solutions Manual

Teacher Qualifications: Laura Burke has been teaching for NCHS since its inception in 2014.  She earned her doctorate in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research at University of California, Berkeley, and was Associate Professor of Industrial Engineering at Lehigh University. She retired from academia to homeschool her children, and has enjoyed teaching Physics, Physical Science, Math Appreciation, and Faith and Science to middle and high school students as a community homeschool instructor since 2010. In 2021, the youngest of her three children graduated from homeschooling. Laura is a parishioner at St. Catherine of Siena Church.