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Physics Syllabus

Contents
 RATIONALE

S
cience plays a major role in the evolution of knowledge. It empowers us to use creative and
independent approaches to problem-solving. It arouses our natural curiosity and enables us to meet
diverse and ever expanding challenges. It enhances our ability to inquire, seek answers, research and
interpret data. These skills which lead to the construction of hypotheses, theories and laws that help
us to explain natural phenomena and exercise control over our environment. Science is, thus, an
integral component of a balanced education.

Physics is generally regarded as the most fundamental scientific discipline and forms the basis of many
other sciences including Chemistry and Seismology, and can be applied to Biology and Medicine. The
study of Physics is necessary to explain our physical environment. In fact, this is the role of the laws
and theories of Physics that influence every aspect of our physical existence. In particular, whatever
conveniences and luxuries we enjoy as citizens of Caribbean nations can either directly or indirectly
be traced to these fundamental physical laws, theories and new technologies. Physics plays a role in
providing the tools for the sustainable development of the Caribbean, in particular, the development
of environmentally friendly forms of power generation, monitoring and modelling of our environment.

The most important natural resource in the Caribbean is its people. If the Caribbean is to play an
important role in the new global village and survive economically, a sustained development of the
scientific and technological resources of its people is essential. The CAPE® Physics Syllabus is
redesigned with a greater emphasis on the application of scientific concepts and principles. Such an
approach is adopted in order to develop those long-term transferrable skills of ethical conduct, team
work, problem-solving, critical thinking, innovation and communication. In addition, it encourages the
use of various student-centred teaching-learning strategies and assessment to inculcate these skills,
while, at the same time, catering to multiple intelligences and different learning styles and needs. The
syllabus will assist students to develop positive values and attitudes towards the physical components
of the environment and will also provide a sound foundation for those who wish to pursue further
studies in science.

This syllabus contributes to the development of the Ideal Caribbean Person as articulated by the
CARICOM Heads of Government in the following areas: respect for human life; awareness of the
importance of living in harmony with the environment; demonstration of multiple literacies;
independent and critical thinking and the innovative application of science and technology to problem-
solving. Such a person should demonstrate a positive work ethic and value and display creative
imagination and entrepreneurship. In keeping with the UNESCO Pillars of Learning, on completion of the
study of this course, students will learn to do, learn to be and learn to transform themselves and society.

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