In our last blog post, we talked about Chemistry.
Let's talk Physics!
Each year, American Association of Physics Teachers and the American Institute of Physics (AIP) sponsor a competition for high school students to represent the United States at the International Physics Olympiad Competition. The mission of the U.S. Physics Team Program is to promote and demonstrate academic excellence through preparation for and participation in the International Physics Olympiad.
Process
This selection process begins in late January when high schools register their students to participate in the F=ma exam. The exam focuses on mechanics, including kinematics, statics, Newton’s laws, momentum and energy, oscillations, orbital mechanics, fluids, and elementary data analysis. Approximately 400 top scorers on this first test advance to the USA Physics Team Exam.
The USA Physics Team Exam is used as the basis for selection of the 20 members of the U.S. Physics Team. These students, from schools all over the United States, travel to the University of Maryland-College Park at the end of May for the annual U.S. Physics Team Training Camp.
At the end of that training camp, five students will be selected for the "Traveling Team." The Traveling Team will return for three additional days of intense laboratory work before they are ready for the International Event. Participants will be given certificates to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of these bright, highly motivated students.
How to Prepare
Try the past exams. Past exams are available at aapt.org. There you will also find the solutions. Most of the concepts needed to solve the problems will be introduced in algebra-based high-school physics courses.
Study with a group. We also encourage you to work with some friends and form a physics study group. Even though this is a competition, working in teams allows you to build a broader knowledge and skill base.
Look into tutors. Tutoring provides customized learning and one-on-one engagement
How can we help?
Genesis Academy offers private one-on-one tutoring and group sessions that guide students through the Physics Olympiad process. Our Director, Mr.Chung has taught students who passed the exams and qualified for the Physics Team. Our customized programs are personalized to students' unique and academic needs.
Contact us for information about scheduling!