Physics I concentrates on conservation of energy and momentum,
and also covers a basic treatment of Newton's Laws (F=ma and such).
If you've had a good physics class before, you probably don't want to
take physics I -- it might not be challenging. On the other hand,
you'll probably find that Physics I covers familiar topics in a
different and (hopefully) interesting way. As such, you might still
be interested in Physics I.
Physics I is an excellent course for students who want to improve
their quantitaitve problem solving skills and review algebra. It is
taken by many students as their only QR course. I think it's also a
course that's well suited for first or second year students.
Physics II spends about half the time on electricity and magnetism.
The topics we covere are fairly standard; if you had physics before,
you'll find this part of the class familiar. The other half of
Physics II is spent on an in-depth treatment of Einstein's special
theory of relativity. This material is rarely taught at this level in
high schools or international baccalaureate granting institutions.
Thus, even if you've had a fair amount of physics before, you'll
probably still learn lots of new stuff in Physics II.
Biomechanics and Physics III each cover topics that are almost never
taught in high school. So if you've had Physics before, you'll
definitely learn new stuff in these two courses.
The above is just a set of guidelines, however. If you have questions
about the different physics options at COA, please come see me.