Dear ________________________________
Welcome to IB Physics SL for the 2015-2016 school year. My name is Mrs. Ellis and I would like to
explain some of my expectations before the school year begins.
This course will be challenging and fast paced. Therefore, I expect you to arrive in August with prior
knowledge in both mathematics and physics. You should review trigonometry (for vectors) and basic
algebraic functions.
Starting on the first day of school, you will need to bring the following items to class EVERY day:
1. A 1 ½ inch Binder: This binder should be for IB Physics ONLY
2. 1 spiral notebook
3. Calculator
4. Pencil
We will be using these items every day so it is IMPERATIVE that you have them for the 1st day.
Additionally, you will need to complete the summer work that is included with this letter. This 5 part
assignment will count as 4 summative grades in the 1st marking period. These assignments will be
graded for CORRECTNESS, not completion. You will be assessed on the material covered by the
summer work during the first 2 weeks of school. This summer work will cover the material found in
Chapters 1 and 3 of the text provided in the packet, as well as significant figures. I strongly suggest
reviewing the material each week of the summer.
Summer work is due on the FIRST day of school.
Part 1: Math Review Packet (40 pt Summative)
Part 2: Physics Classroom Assignment (40 pt Summative)
Part 3: Read Chapters 1 and 3
Part 4: Complete Problems from Chapters 1 and 3 that are listed (40 pts)
Part 5: The Significant Figures Packet (30 pt Summative)
Summer work Expectations:
1. Verify that I have your email (this means email me at [email protected])
*This is worth 5pts! I expect to hear from you no later than July 14th.
2. DO NOT wait until the night before school to complete the assignment. It will take approximately 20
hours (about 1% of your summer), so spread it out. These packets look overwhelming at first glance;
breaking them up into smaller chunks of study time will make it easier on you.
3. Show ALL your work, even if you just “plugged numbers into a calculator.” Write it ALL down.
4. Email me if you have any questions. If you need a response immediately, email me at
[email protected].
5. It is OK to work with a partner, but YOU must turn in your own work on Day 1.
If you misplace any piece of this packet you will be able to find it on the Springbrook website.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about the assignment, or the course.
Enjoy your summer, and I look forward to working with you in the fall.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Sara Ellis