Newtonian Mechanics and the Sixth Form∗

∗ ‘Sixth form’ is the name of the form in English schools in which pupils prepare for university entry: age range 15+ to 18 + .

Syllabus

Summary

Should Newtonian mechanics be included in the sixth form syllabus for the more able students of mathematics and physics ? What do we mean when we say that this or any other topic is ‘needed’ by a certain category of students? Some arguments against the inclusion of Newtonian mechanics are discussed and eight fallacies are identified from among propositions in current circulation. Some reforms in the treatment of Newtonian mechanics in the sixth form are mooted.

Note: The views expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of the Schools Council, nor of the Project's Consultative Committee.

∗ ‘Sixth form’ is the name of the form in English schools in which pupils prepare for university entry: age range 15+ to 18 + .

Notes

∗ ‘Sixth form’ is the name of the form in English schools in which pupils prepare for university entry: age range 15+ to 18 + .