How do you get ready for AP Physics

[Oliver7073]

I'm going to start 9th grade in September and I want to study some AP Physics stuff because I don't really have a idea on what will physics be since I haven't taken an physics class yet. Do you guys have any recommendations on how I should study or what I should study?

 

[ThatVietGuy]

They'll teach you what you need to know. No worries.

Just know that physics is all equations and a little logic. You can always read the first chapter of whatever book your class uses, but honestly it's not going to do any good unless you're actually in the class getting direction.

 

[Oliver7073]

They'll teach you what you need to know. No worries.

Just know that physics is all equations and a little logic. You can always read the first chapter of whatever book your class uses, but honestly it's not going to do any good unless you're actually in the class getting direction.

Ehhh, I'm kinda worried because most of my friends said the class is really really hard and the first 2 untis are hard for my friends.

 

[USAFRet]

Ehhh, I'm kinda worried because most of my friends said the class is really really hard and the first 2 untis are hard for my friends.

1. Don't listen to your 'friends'.
2. It may be hard. Study lots.

 

[dudmont]

As someone who took numerous AP courses a number of years ago, I will state the simple facts. Go to class everyday with your homework done. Don't be afraid to ask for help on areas you're not understanding. If you have some brains, going to class with your homework completed will get you a decent grade, in and of itself. It may not be enough to get a 4 or 5 on the AP test though, that's where asking for help will come in. Good luck. Work hard, people on government assistance are counting on you in the future.

 

[Ralston18]

Pretty much all the above....

Do as many "hands on experiments" and "lab work" as you can. Learn to record and analyze data and how to write up the results - no matter how things turn out. [Side note: take technical writing, speech, and other similar courses to improve your communication skills. Teamwork is very much a requirement - especially for leadership and management positions.]

Do extra math work. Never let something (concept, method) go without being understood. It all builds on basic concepts. Many equations within various disciplines "parallel" each other. Math is a common binding: skills in one area will certainly apply somewhere else.

And do not "lose the forest for the trees". It is all to easy to bog down in details (which are important) - still learn to step back and look at the bigger picture with respect to what you are doing or trying to do. Keep perspective.

AP classes are intended to be challenging and interesting. You do not need to be perfect. In fact you will often learn more from some mistakes (honest ones) or other situations when everything did not work out 100%. Pick yourself up, move on. We seldom really learn when things are too easy.