Students gain hands-on lab experience and engage with scientific theory and applications, drawing upon Penn's cutting-edge technology and resources.
The Penn Summer Experimental Physics Academy offers high school students an immersive experience in current physics, focusing on mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum dynamics, and astrophysics. Through a blend of lectures, hands-on activities, projects, and discussions, students move beyond rote memorization to develop a deeper understanding of cause and effect in physics. The curriculum includes a guided tour of physics from kinematics to modern physics and quantum mechanics, with additional time dedicated to the philosophy of science, experimental design, and the ethics of science. Students also benefit from weekly research talks by University of Pennsylvania faculty, gaining exposure to active research in various fields. The program aims to foster an appreciation for physics at a higher level and provides a Certificate of Completion upon successful conclusion.
A typical day includes morning lectures, small group activities, and in the afternoon, either a guest speaker, global applications, or short films related to economics (this information is from the Economics Academy, but likely similar structure for other academies).
The ideal student is a current 9th-11th grader from anywhere in the world with a minimum 3.3 high school GPA, strong writing skills, and a variety of extracurricular interests, who is interested in physics and astronomy.
3440 Market Street, Suite 450, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3335
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