Math needed for Physics

[Grace is Sufficient]

I have a 9th grader who is currently taking Algebra 2 with Videotext and Apologia Chemistry. Following the standard progression, he will take Physics next year. However, in math, he will be taking Geometry.

 

A recent thread or two here recently suggested a student needs Trig before Physics... is this true? Will he be unprepared for the math in Physics next year?

 

Thanks!

[Chris in VA]

I've heard it depends on what you use for Physics. Conceptual Physics doesn't need nearly the math as Hewitt or even (I've heard) Apologia. Not sure about Trig, but I do think Algebra 2 should be plenty.

[Jane in NC]

I have a 9th grader who is currently taking Algebra 2 with Videotext and Apologia Chemistry. Following the standard progression, he will take Physics next year. However, in math, he will be taking Geometry.

 

A recent thread or two here recently suggested a student needs Trig before Physics... is this true? Will he be unprepared for the math in Physics next year?

 

Thanks!

 

Unless your student is studying Conceptual Physics, he will need to be well versed in trig before taking a basic Physics course. Some trig is introduced in many geometry courses, but that may not even be sufficient. I really don't know what Apologia expects. A book like Giancoli would require a trig component of an Algebra II or Precalculus course (or separate Trig course).

 

Jane

[Chris in VA]

Thanks for the clarification. I took Physics in 9th grade concurrently with Alg 2. No wonder I didnt do so well LOL!

[Peggy in Ks]

to take Physica and Alg 2 in the same year? My 10th grade dd is doing chemistry and Geometry this year.

I didn't even think of her needing Alg 2 to be able to do Physics.

Thanks

Peggy

[Grace is Sufficient]

I guess I'll just look for some other science for the next year (or two!) I was hoping to move away from Apologia for physics -- not that we haven't been pleased with it. I just want to widen their exposure a bit.

 

Thank you all so much for the info!