Class 11 electives are an inspiring addition to our upper school curriculum. Designed to offer students deeper, more focused study in subjects of interest, these electives bring a new energy and sense of ownership to learning for our oldest students.
The Physics elective is a standout highlight of the week for those who have chosen it. Studying the principles of kinematics and dynamics, Newton’s laws and mechanical energy, the students have been exploring theories in ways that go well beyond the textbook – actively testing, building, observing and applying concepts through real world experimentation and engineering challenges.
Beginning the year with a velocity investigation using remote-control cars, students measured, calculated and compared rates of motion across distance, transforming abstract concepts into tangible experience. From there, students turned their attention to engineering, designing and constructing bridges capable of supporting significant weight. Through testing, redesigning and the occasional dramatic collapse, they discovered firsthand why triangular structures are among the strongest and most efficient forms found in engineering and nature alike.
Currently, the class is immersed in its most ambitious project yet: designing and building roller coasters using halved pool noodles to demonstrate the relationship between potential and kinetic energy. With every dip, curve and loop, they are exploring how energy transfers and transforms through motion.
In this way, physics is experienced, tested and truly understood.
