Letter+from+Mrs.+Fitzmaurice

Dear students,

Welcome to CP Physics class. You are beginning a fantastic journey into the world of science. The first step on this exciting adventure is Physics and it is a wonderful place to start. You may ask, “Why is Physics important?” To this I say, “It is important because physics is the study of everything”. Physics is an essential part of everyday life. Without physics we would not be able to build computers or iPhones and forget about online gaming. Engineers use physics in designing buildings, bridges, computers, cars and aircrafts. Physics and trajectory analysis is even used by coaches and sports teams. The various laws and principles we will discuss govern the universe and everyone/everything in it. It is the nature of the human condition to explore and attempt to understand the world and the universe we find ourselves in. Physics gives us a language and a viewpoint for accomplishing this. In physics we can study and measure phenomena that are beyond the realm of sight and sound, but can be accounted for mathematically.

Here is why I love physics. Who has heard of Einstein? He was a pretty smart guy right? Whether you know him as the theory of relativity guy, that genius dude, or the guy with the big hair; it doesn’t matter. Here is my favorite thing about Einstein and physics. Even at the end of his life, Einstein had one great unfinished work. It is known in scientific circles as “Einstein’s Impossible Dream”. He spent the last 3 decades of his life working on it. The theory he was working on is called “Unified Field Theory” and is an equation that explains “EVERYTHING”. It would unite all of the laws of physics into one theory. Unfortunately, he never finished it. Now imagine how amazing it would be if someone reading this letter right now (yes, maybe you sitting there shaking your head… I mean you) one day decided to become a physicist and through effort, study and imagination figured out the solution to this problem that stumped even Einstein. This is why I love physics and this is why I am very excited about being your teacher.

__Classroom Procedures __

Just as there are many laws and procedures in physics, there are also several important procedures in this class. First, upon entering class, I need you to drop off your homework, find your assigned seat, write down the homework, and begin your “Bell-Work”. It is a lot to remember, but trust me we will have lots of practice. Second, we will do a lot of group work. This is good because it allows us to progress faster through the process of “synergy” another concept from physics. However, when working in groups, we need you to report to the group to which you are assigned, respect each other, perform the job you are given, and participate. Third, I want you all to ask questions and participate. However, please raise your hand and wait to be called on. This rule goes for questions, answers or comments. Please understand that asking you to raise your hand before giving an answer or asking a question is not an attempt to avoid your contribution. Actually, it is to make sure that we can all hear each other. When other students ask questions, provide answers or share ideas, you must be respectful of their insights.

In regard to homework and projects, there will be several projects throughout the course of the year and nightly homework. Please turn in all assignments on time to avoid point reductions. Don’t forget to turn in your homework in the “Homework Bin”. If working independently on an assignment in class, please work quietly as not to disturb your neighbors. Physics can include formulas and complex calculations. Sometimes even the smallest background “chatter” may result in calculation errors that can negatively impact results. There will be opportunities for extra credit throughout the year. I highly recommend that you take advantage of these opportunities.

Please, feel free to request extra help when necessary. You can even arrange to meet with me after school if you have any question, concerns, or need help.

My contact e-mail address: ofitzmaurice@nhvweb.net

Good luck on your journey!

Your Physics teacher,

Ms. Fitzmaurice