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SPH4U | Grade 12 Physics Course | OSSD Credit Online

Prerequisite: SPH3U

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Course Details

Course Title: Physics
Grade: 12
Ministry Course Code: SPH4U
Course Type: Academic
Credit Value: 1.0
Course Hours: 110
Prerequisites: Physics, Grade 11, University Preparation (SPH3U)
Curriculum Policy: The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12: Science (2008)

Course Description

SPH4U is an advanced-level physics course designed to prepare Grade 12 students for university-level studies in science, engineering, and technology. This course explores the principles of motion, energy transformations, and fields. Students will delve into quantum mechanics, electromagnetic radiation, and the wave nature of light, gaining a comprehensive understanding of modern physics.

Through real-world applications, students analyze the impact of physics on technology and society. The course emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and scientific investigation skills, preparing students for future academic and career success. Interactive learning modules support mastery of complex topics, such as forces in two dimensions, gravitational and magnetic fields, and the fundamentals of special relativity.

Graduates of SPH4U will possess the skills to excel in post-secondary STEM programs and apply physics principles to solve real-world problems, fostering innovation and scientific curiosity.

Outline of Course Content

Unit	Unit Description	Time Frame
1. Dynamics	In this unit, students will expand their knowledge of kinematics and forces into the combined field of dynamics. Students will be re-introduced to many terms, variables, and equations learned in Grade 11 Physics. They will apply these previously learned concepts to two-dimensional situations.	24 hrs
2. Energy & Momentum	In this unit, students will study the Physics behind collisions. To do so, they will first recall what it means, in Physics, to do work. Students will review the types of mechanical energy studied in Grade 11 and they will learn more about thermal and elastic potential energy. Using Laws of Conservation of Energy and Momentum, students will analyze different types of collisions, qualitatively and quantitatively.	21 hrs
3. Gravitational, Electric & Magnetic Fields	In this unit, students will explore gravitational, electric, and magnetic forces and fields. Students will analyze the behaviour of particles in these fields and will look at similarities and differences among the fields. Through calculations and simulations, students will gain an understanding of forces and fields that they can apply to a real-world technology.	20 hrs
4. The Wave Nature of Light	In this unit, students will investigate wave properties and relate them to the behaviour of light. Students will first analyze water waves, and then transfer that understanding to light waves. Students will use diagrams and simulations to gain a firm understanding of the wave nature of light, and they will also analyze the patterns and behaviours mathematically.	21 hrs
5. Revolution in Modern Physics	In this unit, students will be introduced to interesting phenomena related to modern physics. Students will explore Einstein’s Special Theory of Relativity as well as the quantum theory of electromagnetic radiation. Their exploration will take them through thought experiments, experimental observations, simulations, and simple calculations. This unit is an excellent overview of how science works, expanding and developing a theory with the support of ingenious ideas and experimental evidence.	21 hrs
6. Culminating Project	In this unit, students will select their own text and conduct their own independent project.	1 hr
7. Final Exam	The course will conclude with a final in-class essay about the major texts studied throughout the course.	2 hrs

Resources

Textbook: Nelson Physics 12 (Digital access included).
Interactive Tools: Simulations, virtual labs, and learning modules designed to enhance comprehension.
Additional Materials: Comprehensive notes, practice problems, and assessment guides.

Overall Curriculum Expectation

Scientific Investigation Skills & Career Exploration

A1. Demonstrate scientific investigation skills (related to both inquiry and research) in the four areas of skills (initiating and planning, performing and recording, analyzing and interpreting, and communicating).
A2. Identify and describe careers related to the fields of science under study, and describe the contributions of scientists, including Canadians, to those fields.

Dynamics

B1. Analyze technological devices that apply the principles of the dynamics of motion, and assess the technologies’ social and environmental impact.
B2. Investigate, in qualitative and quantitative terms, forces involved in uniform circular motion and motion in a plane, and solve related problems.
B3. Demonstrate an understanding of the forces involved in uniform circular motion and motion in a plane.

Energy & Momentum

C1. Analyze and propose ways to improve technologies or procedures that apply principles related to energy and momentum, and assess the social and environmental impact of these technologies or procedures.
C2. Investigate, in qualitative and quantitative terms, through laboratory inquiry or computer simulation, the relationship between the laws of conservation of energy and conservation of momentum, and solve related problems.
C3. Demonstrate an understanding of work, energy, momentum, and the laws of conservation of energy and conservation of momentum, in one and two dimensions.

Gravitational, Electric & Magnetic Fields

D1. Analyze the operation of technologies that use gravitational, electric, or magnetic fields, and assess the technologies’ social and environmental impact.
D2. Investigate, in qualitative and quantitative terms, gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields, and solve related problems.
D3. Demonstrate an understanding of the concepts, properties, principles, and laws related to gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields and their interactions with matter.

The Wave Nature of Light

E1. Analyze technologies that use the wave nature of light, and assess their impact on society and the environment.
E2. Investigate, in qualitative and quantitative terms, the properties of waves and light, and solve related problems.
E3. Demonstrate an understanding of the properties of waves and light in relation to diffraction, refraction, interference, and polarization.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

At Canadian Virtual School (CVS), our teaching approach is designed to engage students in meaningful, interactive, and skill-building learning experiences. This course empowers students to master their skills through a variety of dynamic assignments and creative projects, all tailored to align with Ontario’s curriculum standards.

Key Strategies Include:

Diverse Assignments for Holistic Skill Development: Students undertake a wide array of tasks, including descriptive and personal writing, oral presentations, opinion pieces, multi-genre projects, and formal essays. These assignments encourage various modalities such as speaking, presenting, creative representation (e.g., visual art, poetry, music), and structured academic writing.
Mastering Note-Taking Techniques: Students explore different note-taking strategies to determine the most effective method for analyzing novels, short stories, and poetry. This skill ensures their ability to synthesize and retain critical information across texts.
Video Analysis for Presentation Skills: Students view curated video presentations to critique delivery techniques, identifying strengths and weaknesses. These insights help students refine their own oral presentation skills for maximum impact.
Interactive and Scaffolding Tools for Writing Excellence:
- Teaching videos on literary devices, MLA formatting, and personal essay analysis provide foundational knowledge.
- Interactive tools and quizzes challenge students to apply their learning while deepening their understanding of course material.
- Longer writing assignments are broken into manageable steps, allowing students to work through the entire writing process. With teacher feedback at every stage, students improve both their content and writing style.
Engaging Multimedia Resources:
- Oral readings accompany poetry and prose excerpts, enhancing the auditory appreciation of literature.
- Interactive videos guide students through self-directed learning, with built-in assessments to check comprehension and progress.
Critical Reading and Discussions: Reading Guides for novels encourage deep engagement, prompting students to ask thoughtful questions, interpret texts critically, and consider multiple perspectives. Close readings of texts are further supported by interactive discussion posts and one-on-one communication with teachers, allowing for personalized feedback and collaboration.
Frequent Self-Assessment: Students reflect on their learning journey at the end of each unit, identifying areas for growth and setting actionable goals for future improvement.
Real-Time Feedback and Support: Throughout the course, students receive continuous feedback from certified teachers, ensuring a personalized learning experience that adapts to individual needs.

At CVS, we prioritize building confident, independent learners who are equipped with the skills needed to excel academically and beyond. By leveraging a blend of innovative teaching techniques and interactive tools, students are empowered to take charge of their learning while staying connected to expert guidance.

Assessment and Evaluation

At Canadian Virtual School (CVS), our approach to assessment and evaluation is rooted in the Ministry of Education’s Growing Success document, ensuring that students receive a fair, transparent, and meaningful evaluation process that supports their individual learning journey. Our philosophy prioritizes the best interests of students by designing assessments that not only measure achievement but also actively promote growth, understanding, and self-reflection.

Our Key Principles:

Multiple Pathways to Show Learning: We believe in creating diverse and inclusive assessments that allow students to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and understanding in ways that align with their strengths. Whether through written assignments, oral presentations, multimedia projects, or creative expressions, CVS assessments provide varied opportunities for success.
Gradual Release of Responsibility: Assessments at CVS are designed to empower students to take ownership of their learning. Through guided practice, feedback, and reflection, students gradually build the confidence and skills needed to succeed independently in their evaluations.
Feedback-Driven Growth: Detailed and actionable feedback is a cornerstone of our assessment process. By providing regular insights into student performance, we help them reflect on their strengths, address areas for improvement, and refine their strategies for success.
Alignment with Growing Success: The Growing Success framework defines seven core principles for effective assessment and evaluation. These principles guide our practices to ensure that every assessment is:
- - are fair, transparent, and equitable for all students;
  - support all students, including those with special education needs, those who are learning the language of instruction (English or French), and those who are First Nation, Métis, or Inuit;
  - are carefully planned to relate to the curriculum expectations and learning goals and, as much as possible, to the interests, learning styles and preferences, needs, and experiences of all students;
  - are communicated clearly to students and parents at the beginning of the course and at other points throughout the school year or course;
  - are ongoing, varied in nature, and administered over a period of time to provide multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate the full range of their learning;
  - provide ongoing descriptive feedback that is clear, specific, meaningful, and timely to support improved learning and achievement;
  - develop students’ self-assessment skills to enable them to assess their own learning, set specific goals, and plan next steps for their learning.

At CVS, we view assessment not as a final judgment of performance but as an ongoing process that supports learning and growth. By integrating innovative evaluation techniques with the principles outlined in Growing Success, we ensure that students are prepared not only for academic success but also for lifelong learning.

Final Grade

At Canadian Virtual School (CVS), the evaluation process is designed to accurately reflect each student’s mastery of curriculum expectations and essential skills for effective learning. The final grade represents the quality and consistency of a student’s overall achievement throughout the course and aligns with the achievement chart provided by the Ontario Ministry of Education.

Credit Requirements:
A credit for this course will be granted if the student achieves a final grade of 50% or higher. The grade reflects the student’s demonstrated knowledge, skills, and understanding of the course expectations.

Grade Breakdown:

70% Ongoing Assessment:
This portion of the grade is based on evaluations conducted throughout the course. It reflects the student’s most consistent level of achievement, with special consideration given to more recent evidence of learning. Students will engage in a variety of assignments, quizzes, and activities that demonstrate their progress across multiple competencies.
30% Final Evaluation:
This portion of the grade is determined by a comprehensive final evaluation administered at the end of the course. The final evaluation may take the form of:
- A final exam
- A culminating task
- A combination of both an exam and a culminating task

At CVS, we are committed to ensuring that assessments are not only fair and transparent but also empower students to showcase their knowledge and skills in meaningful ways. By combining consistent, ongoing evaluations with a final summative assessment, we provide a holistic view of each student’s growth and achievement throughout their learning journey.

Report Card

At Canadian Virtual School (CVS), we are committed to keeping students and parents informed about academic progress through formal and detailed report cards. These report cards provide a comprehensive view of student achievement and offer actionable insights for continuous improvement.

Report Card Delivery:

Report cards are issued twice during the course: once at the midterm and again upon course completion.
Students will receive their report cards directly via email.

Key Features of the Report Card:

Academic Achievement:
- Curriculum expectations are evaluated and reported as a percentage grade, reflecting the student’s overall performance in the course.
- The course median is also reported to provide context for the student’s performance relative to the class.
- Teachers include personalized comments highlighting the student’s strengths, areas for improvement, and actionable next steps for continued success.
Learning Skills and Work Habits:
- Learning skills such as responsibility, collaboration, and initiative are assessed and reported as a letter grade (E – Excellent, G – Good, S – Satisfactory, N – Needs Improvement). These grades represent one of four levels of accomplishment and provide valuable feedback on the student’s approach to learning.
Credit Completion:
- Upon course completion, the report card will indicate whether the student has earned an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) credit for the course.

Official Transcript Management:

For students attending school in Ontario, a copy of the final report card will be sent to the student’s main school. The school will then add the completed course to the student’s official Ontario Student Transcript (OST).

At CVS, our report cards go beyond grades. They serve as a vital tool for reflection, growth, and achievement, ensuring students and their families have a clear understanding of their academic progress and accomplishments.

Considerations

At Canadian Virtual School (CVS), our teachers carefully design programs that reflect the highest standards of education, aligning with the Ontario Ministry of Education’s policies and the following initiatives.

Below are five reimagined focus areas where CVS stands out, delivering a transformative online education experience tailored to meet diverse student needs.

Fostering Diversity and Belonging

At CVS, we embrace the unique backgrounds and experiences of every student to create an inclusive and equitable learning environment. Our approach includes:

Embedding diverse perspectives and voices into our curriculum to reflect the multicultural world we live in.
Ensuring every student has access to the resources and opportunities needed to succeed, regardless of background.
Addressing global and societal issues through critical discussions and assignments, empowering students to advocate for fairness and equity.

By celebrating diversity and promoting belonging, CVS equips students with the tools to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.

Building Foundational Academic and Life Skills

At CVS, we focus on developing essential literacy, numeracy, and inquiry skills that serve as the foundation for academic and personal success. Key initiatives include:

Integrating reading, writing, and numeracy exercises across all subjects to build critical thinking and analytical abilities.
Encouraging real-world applications of knowledge, such as problem-solving and data analysis.
Promoting inquiry-based learning, where students ask questions, research answers, and engage with multiple viewpoints.

Our goal is to prepare students with the skills they need to navigate both academic and real-world challenges confidently.

Developing Critical and Analytical Mindsets

At CVS, we empower students to become thoughtful, independent thinkers who can navigate a complex and fast-paced world. Our focus includes:

Teaching students to critically evaluate information, from traditional texts to modern media, to identify bias, credibility, and intent.
Fostering discussions and debates on societal and global issues to help students develop well-rounded perspectives.
Encouraging students to tackle complex problems through innovative thinking and data-driven analysis.

This emphasis on critical and analytical skills ensures that students leave CVS ready to make informed decisions and solve meaningful problems.

Advancing Digital Competencies for a Tech-Driven World

As an online school, CVS prioritizes teaching students the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. This includes:

Utilizing cutting-edge platforms and tools, such as Moodle and multimedia resources, to deliver interactive and engaging content.
Equipping students with digital literacy skills, including responsible technology use and effective online communication.
Offering personalized online support and collaboration opportunities through virtual forums and teacher feedback.

CVS ensures students graduate with the tech skills necessary to succeed in higher education and their future careers.

Preparing Students for Academic and Career Success

At CVS, we connect classroom learning to real-world goals by helping students identify their strengths, interests, and aspirations. Our efforts include:

Guiding students to set achievable academic and career goals that align with their skills and passions.
Providing resources and tools to explore diverse career paths and post-secondary opportunities.
Helping students develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills that are valuable for any profession.

Through personalized planning and support, CVS ensures students are prepared not just for academic success but also for thriving careers and fulfilling lives.

Have a deadline to meet? Get ready to succeed on the Fast Track!

Fast Track courses guarantee 24-hour teacher email response times, 2-day assessment grading, and prioritized administrative support.

Tip: Add a Fast Track course to your cart by selecting the Fast Track toggle on any course page.

How Does It Work?

At Canadian Virtual School, we recognize that no two learners are the same. That’s why students at VHS get to choose when and where to study, when to submit assignments, and when to write their final exams. With certified teachers, interactive course content, free online tutoring, dedicated student support teams, and an outstanding administrative staff, we stay focused on meeting the needs of each student to deliver the best in online secondary education.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SPH4U, and who is it for?

SPH4U is the Grade 12 Physics course under the Ontario Curriculum, tailored for students aiming to pursue university-level studies in science, engineering, or technology. This course is ideal for those with a passion for physics and its real-world applications.

How is the course delivered, and what resources will I need?

The ENG4U course is delivered through our interactive Learning Management System (LMS), offering engaging modules and assessments. Students will need a reliable internet connection and a device like a laptop or tablet. All materials are provided digitally, ensuring seamless access to course content.

How will I be assessed, and will I receive an OSSD credit?

Assessment is based on a combination of ongoing evaluations (70%) and a final exam or project (30%). Students who achieve a grade of 50% or higher will receive an official OSSD credit, and a report card will be sent to their primary school (if applicable) for transcript inclusion.

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