This document outlines the topics that will be covered on a math test for an academic physics course. It lists various grade 10 math concepts that students are expected to understand, such as the Pythagorean theorem, trigonometric ratios, solving linear and quadratic equations, graphing, slopes, and angles. The test will count towards students' term marks, so mastery of these prerequisite math skills is necessary to succeed in the grade 11 physics course. Students are advised to study by doing practice problems and reviewing old tests and textbook sections.

1. SPH3U1 Academic Physics
Math Test Topics
September 2018

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. • Know what the angle of elevation is and what
the angle of depression is and how to use
these angles.
• 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

5. • 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.

6. • Students show know how to use inequalities
(less than, greater than,…) signs
• Know the shape of a quadratic equation when
graphed and its name.
• Be able to draw graphs that show the number
of roots present

7. 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!