How to Succeed in AP Physics
The tricks for being successful are the same for any course: stay organized and practice.
Staying Organized
1. Check the class website often. The calendar will be updated daily. You can even access the site on your smartphones. If you do nothing else, check the calendar every day.
2. Keep a notebook just for Physics. You will be asked to have a separate lab notebook for the class, but it is also a good idea to keep a separate notebook/binder for your in-class notes and reading notes. I suggest getting a binder because you will receive a lot of handouts in the class and it will be easier to keep everything together with a binder.
3. Keep an assignment book/schedule book. I can't tell you how many times I reference my own schedule book throughout the day. I keep a list of everything I need to accomplish each day as well as any deadlines and appointments I might have. I suggest you keep one of your own. If you use it everyday and use it well, it will become indispensable to you.
Practice, Practice, Practice
1. Take advantage of in-class practice time. This is your time to get all your questions answered before you attempt the homework. Take good notes of the problems we attempt in class - they may just help you on the homework.
2. The homework is for you. It's your opportunity to fine-tune your skills and buff out all the little mistakes you might make on problems.
3. Form a study group and set a time each week to get together and work on Physics. Not only will it be more enjoyable, but you will have several minds working together. Remember: two is better than one, three is better than two, etc.
Staying Organized
1. Check the class website often. The calendar will be updated daily. You can even access the site on your smartphones. If you do nothing else, check the calendar every day.
2. Keep a notebook just for Physics. You will be asked to have a separate lab notebook for the class, but it is also a good idea to keep a separate notebook/binder for your in-class notes and reading notes. I suggest getting a binder because you will receive a lot of handouts in the class and it will be easier to keep everything together with a binder.
3. Keep an assignment book/schedule book. I can't tell you how many times I reference my own schedule book throughout the day. I keep a list of everything I need to accomplish each day as well as any deadlines and appointments I might have. I suggest you keep one of your own. If you use it everyday and use it well, it will become indispensable to you.
Practice, Practice, Practice
1. Take advantage of in-class practice time. This is your time to get all your questions answered before you attempt the homework. Take good notes of the problems we attempt in class - they may just help you on the homework.
2. The homework is for you. It's your opportunity to fine-tune your skills and buff out all the little mistakes you might make on problems.
3. Form a study group and set a time each week to get together and work on Physics. Not only will it be more enjoyable, but you will have several minds working together. Remember: two is better than one, three is better than two, etc.