Physics That Works is a one-year, project-based curriculum that places standards-based science learning in workplace contexts. This unique approach to physics learning was funded by the National Science Foundation.
Physics That Works enables students to learn and apply fundamental laws of physics to engineering, design, and technological challenges while in a classroom environment. This curriculum demonstrates how physics that "works" is engaging, exciting, and, most importantly, a successful learning experience for all students.
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Authentic Contexts for Learning
Connects standards-based science with workplace and community applications of science, emphasizing how physics is richly connected with everyday life. Units begin with a real-world challenge and then gradually uncover the embedded physics principles and concepts.
Motivating Projects
Each unit presents an extended engineering, design, or technological project: a stimulating, real-world challenge that makes obvious the reason for taking physics.
Depth of Treatment or Challenging and Accessible
Because projects capture the complexity of real life situations, PTW supports students in gaining and applying in-depth understanding of multiple concepts as well as sophisticated reasoning skills.
Diversity of Learning Experiences and Assessment
PTW employs multiple means of learning and assessment, including: inquiry; hands-on investigations; designing and building; kinesthetic experiences; reading, writing, and graphing visual representations; workplace visits; discussions; presentations; group work; and independent study.
Innovative Student Materials
PTW provides an alternative to the traditional textbook. In the Student Edition, required readings foster consolidation of understanding, extension readings illuminate physics applications in the everyday world, reference materials aid students in their work, and problem sets promote practice and transfer. Job Sheets help students undertake investigations, reflect on their growing understandings, and organize their work.
Authentic Contexts for LearningConnects standards-based science with workplace and community applications of science, emphasizing how physics is richly connected with everyday life. Units begin with a real-world challenge and then gradually uncover the embedded physics principles and concepts.