Re: Physics for Ninth Graders?

[Larry Cartwright <exit60@IA4U.NET>]

Richard Hake wrote:
> "What is the best way to present the idea of learning physics, and
> all it entails, to a ninth grader?"

I guess you say:

 "We are going to *introduce* you to the field of science called
physics.  Due to your lack of mathematical skill and the limitations of
your intellectual maturity at age 14, you will develop a quite limited
view of what is going on in the Universe, but we will do the best we can
with the tools we have to work with, and we will try hard to make it
interesting and worthwhile.  To really understand physics requires a lot
of algebra, and trigonometry, and calculus, and the ability to focus on
abstract details.  If you *really* want to learn about physics, you
certainly should study the subject further in future years;  the
Universe reveals much more of itself to the learner who is more mature
and who has more sophisticated learning skills and more
sophisticated mathematical grasp."

Interestingly, this doesn't sound much different than what I have been
telling my physics students; except "the tools we have to work with"
part flashes in dayglo colors when you couple it with "age 14".

I am sad to see this grade-9 movement gaining momentum.  It pretty much
ensures that HS physics will be taught at a highly watered-down
conceptual level.  With all due respect to Leon Lederman and his
optimistic band of followers, I do not believe that the majority of 14
year olds possess the mathematical skills and intellectual maturity to
comprehend physics to the extent that it ought to be understood at the
HS level.

I don't believe we're doing the nation any favors by trying to teach
physics to less well prepared kids rather than waiting until they have
had an opportunity to mature.  There is such a *vast* difference between
the maturity of the typical 14 year old and the same kid at age 17; the
gap seems like the grand canyon to me, and I'm always amazed that kids
can traverse such a huge divide in just two or three years.

I understand the "physics first" arguments and the driving politics, but
understanding something doesn't always make one see it as an
improvement.

Best wishes,

Larry

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Larry Cartwright
Retired (June 2001) Physics Teacher
Charlotte MI 48813 USA   <exit60@ia4u.net>
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