AP physics “B” is one of the newest advanced placement courses offered here at Osceola High School. Approximately 29 students from 11th and 12th grade are taking advantage of the higher learning course in hopes of gaining AP credit in May.
“Everyone wanted: AP physics, AP physics, AP physics; so I told Marty Weismantel (12th grade), to get students to sign up for the course,” said Physics honors/ Physics AP teacher, Mrs. Ferguson.
The course provides an introduction to basic principles of physics as well as problem solving abilities in algebra and trigonometry; meaning the course is meant to be more rigorous than honors physics. Some students agree.
“It’s a much faster pace, maybe a little more intense. If you’re not good at math or physics this is not a class for you,” said Drew Curry, 12th grade.
Isaac Caceres, 12th grade, agrees. “It’s a little more advanced because it’s a college course. It goes more in depth.”
Mrs. Ferguson also thinks the course is rigorous and will greatly challenge students.
“I’m really nervous because this course wasn’t offered before, and because so many students signed up, it conflicted with AP biology and AP chemistry. We have to quickly review everything from last year, so that we can get to the newer stuff covered in the course.”
Regardless of the rigor, or depth, students still enjoy the course so far because Mrs. Ferguson eases the rigor with fun physics labs.
“I feel pretty good about it. I’m looking forward to it because I need physics in my future,” said Caceres.
“It will be a challenge but Mrs. Ferguson is a great teacher and we will make it through,” said Christina Tournant, 11th grade.