This document provides information about an upcoming math test for an academic physics course, including the topics that will be covered and how students can study. The topics are concepts from grade 10 math, including the Pythagorean theorem, trigonometric ratios, solving linear and quadratic equations. Understanding these mathematical concepts is required for success in the physics course. This test will count towards students' term marks. Students are advised to review prior tests, practice problems, and know the required formulas in order to prepare.

1. SPH3U1 Academic Physics
Math Test Topics
September 2015

2. Why do a math test?
• Understanding, and being to apply,
mathematical concepts is a requirement for
being successful in grade 11 physics.
• Students must bring well developed
mathematical skills, at the grade 10 level, to
this course. Students who do not possess the
required skills will likely struggle with this
subject and may not earn the credit.
• This test will count and be part of your term
mark.

3. Topics from Grade 10 Math
(Required for math test)
• Know, and be able to apply, the following:
– Pythagorean theorem
– Sine and Cosine Laws
– Trigonometric ratios (and inverse trig ratios)
– SOHCAHTOA
• Be able to work with linear equations:
– Using point – slope, or two points to get the
equation of a line (y = mx + b form)
– Solve a system of linear equations using
substitution or elimination.

4. – Be able to calculate the slope of a line.
– Know what the y & x intercepts are and how to
calculate them given sufficient information
– Understand slopes: for parallel & perpendicular
lines, vertical and horizontal lines
• Be able to determine the roots of a quadratic
equation of the form ax2 + bx + c = 0.
– This can be done by using quadratic formula (know
this) and possibly by just factoring the quadratic
equation
– Understand the importance of the discriminant and
how to use it to determine the number of roots.

5. How to study for this test
• Look over prior tests. As the math department
gives your tests back you should have these!
• Do not study topics not listed previously
• Always put pencil to paper and solve
problems!
• KNOW required formulas and ratios.
• Some review (not much) is in your physics
textbook. Page 652, sections A6.4 and A6.5.
Textbooks will be handed out by the end of the
week
• Use the internet!