AP physics: warmth disperses and time passes
says a committee member to three other unagreeable members.
“His work shows far more than the AP Physics test ever would about a student’s knowledge of the subject. Not only that, but with many historical references, stories, and explanations spanning over almost two centuries that even I wouldn’t have known until I read the manuscript.”
“Elaborate more, please,” says another member, “because I’m not seeing why something a student chooses to do freely on their own time should count as their AP test grade.”
“von Mayer started with the very simple concept of perpetual motion, proved why it could never work like scientists would hope it to, and continues to explain, in detail, the laws of thermodynamics, their history, and how they were thought of and proven. He gives a complete background of physics and thermodynamics. Why should someone so obviously capable not be able to have credit for the exam?
“No one asked him to write this. No one required this of him. He took this upon himself and does not need to receive credit for his AP exam. If he knows physics like he seems to from the manuscript, he will pass the test and that will be that.”
“I agree,” chimes in another, “he should not receive credit for something he did on his own accord. Everyone must take the exam and pass for credit.”
“But he is so obviously bright and he took initiative to write this manuscript. He worked very hard and I think he deserves this. He took the time to research and learn about how energy cannot be created or destroyed, how energy ultimately converts to heat when all other options have been considered. He understands perpetual motion, he understands the laws of thermodynamics, he understands and explains why these scientists devoted so much of their lives to these discoveries. He paints a very detailed picture of the lives and works of these scientists, making their stories intriguing to the reader. Starting at the beginning and working his way to current times through the lives of these scientists, von Mayer shows in plenty of detail that he has mastered this subject. I strongly believe that we should give him full credit for this exam for his outstanding work done in this manuscript.”