When I shoot things out of a cannon and all the mathematics components that come with it.

     I learned many wise things while in Mrs. Gende’s class in the past few months.  But this time I will comment only on when I shoot things out of a cannon and all the mathematics components that go with it(a.k.a. Projectile motion and vectors).

      I learned that theta the symbol for an angle, (or θ) is all about trigonometry and vectors.  There are many ways to find theta, and other aspects of trigonometry and projectile motion, but almost every equation has to do with theta of some form.

      Vectors are force, displacement, velocity, and acceleration. A vector is a quantity possessing both magnitude and direction.  Vectors are usually indicated by the direction and the length proportional to magnitude.   Where x is horizontal and y is vertical.  In this unit, we mainly use the vector form of projectile motion.

      Projectile motion has to do with horizontal motion and vertical motion (vertical motion has to do with gravity).  I learned cool things like the fact that the velocity of horizontal motion is constant and the initial velocity of vertical motion is always zero.  But only in the specific projectile motion.  When it is changed to projectile motion at an angle, the initial velocity can vary.

      What I found difficult is knowing when I needed to use the x-components and y-components.  My problem-solving skills have developed over the course of this section and I have come to recognize which equations to use and how to use them to find the other variables. My only weakness comes to recognizing which equation is which on the equations sheet.

 The connection between everyday life and what we studied is having the subconscious knowledge of how to do things like projectile motion. For example, in soccer, if I wanted to score a goal (no counting the goalie) I would think (in a matter of seconds) how hard I would need to kick the ball (velocity) and imputing the gravity (or the arc formed by Gravity), what angle I need to kick it so it will go into the goal in the air. That, in every way, is projectile motion.

When aliens invade, will they really be that smart?

       Acceleration is the key to everything.  Without it, we would have never gone into space, or we wouldn't, if you really think about it, fall.  But most important we would never have speeding tickets, because we can't accelerate to get to that speed.  In my pixton, an alien accidentally comes to earth and doesn't really know what acceleration or velocity is.  A girl shows him what it is before he leaves. 

(I could not get this photo to load with very good quality or color, sorry)

Tips for Success! Ways to become successful in physics.

Physics Success

There are many ways to be successful in physics. Those methods include time management and outside class checkup, organization, devotion, and communication.

Time management plays an important role in succeeding in one’s goals.  The first step to managing one’s time is coming to class on time.  This gives the feeling that you are prepared and ready for class.  The student needs to put aside time at home to check the website daily to make sure that nothing has been updated so the student won’t fall behind and that they know what is coming.  Doing so will give the feeling of being self-sufficient and confident that they will know what to do if something new arises or the student has difficulty with a problem.  Such as asking questions on the wiki with enough time for a guaranteed response.

Organization is the second step to becoming successful in physics.  Being organized helps remembrance, preparation, and readiness.  The actual organization part is self-explanatory.  The student just needs to know where everything is in an orderly fashion that will even be strait-forward to a stranger.  When one is organized it is easy to follow what is happening, what he or she needs, and a better way to learn or recall the information given in class.  It also help to prepare the student for class and to bring the required materials.  Organization helps ready the student for constant assessment in and outside class.  Besides having everything orderly, the student needs to use an assignment notebook to help keep up with assignments and manage time.  By  using the assignment notebook the student can also tell if he or she needs to complete makeup work and, by using the time management tips, can properly find an appropriate time to complete them.  Organization is the key to self-confidence and assurance.

Communication is another important role is success.  The student needs to know when to seek help either through the wiki or in person. He or she needs to know that they should not be shy and no one will judge them if they need help.

The final step is devotion.  The student needs to be devoted to the class to succeed in all ways, not just by grade. Devotion means being willing to learn no matter what it involves.  Examples are reading every paper or handout thoroughly, taking notes, and actively participating in class and not using it as time to socialize.  Learning includes the vocabulary and symbols, not just the overall idea, and working hard to solve all the problems.

One way to solve problems is the four-step rule.  The four-step rule is to one, write down what is given and what needs solving, two, write an equation, three, substitute, and last, check your answer.  But remember, the student needs to know not to rush to solve the problem but to find a strategy.

Success is earned through many ways. Whether organization, time management, or devotion is what needs the most work, it will always come to those who  try their hardest.