What does football have to do with AP Physics? (by Mr. Mark Craig)

Football season presents an excellent context for students in my AP Physics class. Our study of kinematics and the physical laws governing the motion of downfield passes, field goal attempts, and projectiles in general has been illustrative to students. This is also the time of year when students first begin to understand what physics is and isn't—a science of only a few equations, limited textbook reading, and much analytical thought. Having completed a launched projectile lab, the class has wrapped up kinematic studies (for now), and will move forward with Newton's laws and dynamics.

Also to note, St. Michael’s is now in its third year of offering an AP Physics C course. This senior level elective follows the first AP course and is equivalent to a university level, freshman engineering (calculus-based) physics class. Not unlike their junior class counterparts, Physics C students are also studying kinematics, only that of rockets in 3D, and non-uniform acceleration of objects. For any students who think they might be interested in physical sciences or engineering post-high school, this is an excellent preparatory class.