In this introductory physics course, we are focused on analyzing energy through discussion, everyday applications, and hands-on projects. Each course meeting will feature an interactive discussion of key physics concepts to support students in seeing energy at work in the world through through diverse forms like light, sound, heat, and elasticity. 

We will explore the transfer of energy conceptually and practically. We ask questions like: Why can a slingshot throw a cork through air? How do headphones work? How can we tell that light is a kind of energy? Why do coats keep us warm in the winter? Learners will gain familiarity with potential and kinetic energy through hands-on, practical projects. Every class meeting has an organizing question to guide and direct discussion. By the end of the course, learners will have a deeper understanding of potential energy (elastic, gravitational, and chemical) and kinetic energy (sound, light, heat, and motion). This course is a conceptual physics course that will make minimal use of middle school level mathematics (as appropriate) for student interest.

Every week, we'll dive deep into our question. The class will start by talking about "What is energy?" and how we can recognize energy transfers present in machines. Over our time together, students will develop an appreciation for how scientists and engineers discuss and apply energy conservation. What does it mean that energy can neither be created nor destroyed, it can only be transferred from one form to another? Additionally, students will be encouraged to suggest questions they want to explore for a truly student-centered learning experience.

Class time is a discussion time where learners will have the opportunity to dialog with the teacher. Class times frequently incorporate video and other media to bring our discussions to life. No supplies are needed to attend class. After our class meetings, students will have the opportunity to extend their learning with a hands-on engineering project or science experiment. Example projects include things like designing a marble roller coaster, creating rainbows in two different ways, experimenting with different lenses, and creating a thermos.