This project develops an honors introductory two-semester calculus-based physics sequence which goes beyond the narrow problem-solving focus of the standard sequence, and directs a considerable amount of attention to the historical context in which major physical concepts originated and developed. This helps students to internalize these concepts, develop the ability to apply them, and recognize their place in science and modern thought. Such a pedagogical approach enhances understanding and captures the interest of honors students, thus making them aware of the challenge and excitement of physics as an intellectual discipline and career. These students represent a small but previously untapped high ability pool of potential physics majors having a high percentage of women. Subject matter is organized about the following major themes: particle motion and the structure of the universe; waves and the transmission of energy; thermodynamics, statistics and the gross structure of matter; electromagnetism and field concepts; relativity, quantum theory, and models of the microscopic and ultimate structure of matter.
