Ratto
Data based on 2 reviews.
What kind of test questions does this teacher use most often (choose one):
Multiple ChoiceIs the teacher available for extra help during study halls, lunchtime, before or after school, etc.?
Almost AlwaysThe teacher responds to emails promptly. Do you...
Strongly AgreeThe teacher posts in-class materials online for reference (slides, etc.):
Almost AlwaysThe teacher lets us know at the beginning of the course and along the way how much each part of the class (homework, papers, quizzes and tests) counts towards our total grade:
Strongly AgreeHow much homework does this teacher assign?
Way too muchThe amount of writing required in this class is:
Very HighThe teacher allows us to use technology in class (e.g. laptop, calculator, smart pen, etc.)
Almost AlwaysHow much memorization is required to do well in this teacher’s course?
Very HighWhat advice would you give yourself if you were just starting the class now?
Class of 2023
Doing well in this class is easy. Pay attention in class, do the practice tests Mr. Ratto hands out, and do some extra practice problems on AP classroom. You can get a D on all of your tests, do the makeup problem during flex/during lunch/after school, and still end up with an A in the class.
Class of 2022
It is crucial that you take advantage of all of the resources that Ratto offers, because he offers a lot of extra practice opportunities. If you complete the review tests, the College Board multiple choice tests, and rewatch his lectures, you will certainly do well in his class. Also, don't waste your time trying to memorize formulas and kinematics equations, because he allows you to use the AP Physics Equation sheet during the test. Your studying time is probably best spent on the review tests, and College Board tests. Lastly, the tests are typically made up of 8 multiple choice questions, 1 multi-answer question, and a free response question. Usually, the multiple choice questions are worth more than the free response question, but the free response question is always more difficult so prioritize your time on that part. Overall, it is relatively easy to get an A in AP Physics 1 if you are engaged during class, take detailed notes, and review extensively before unit tests.
Additional Comments
Class of 2023
Mr. Ratto is probably the best teacher I've ever had. During his lectures, he is super enthusiastic and is very humorous. He is also super open to helping anyone and is available at any time. He gives lots of freedom to his students like allowing them to listen to music and assigning a lot of optional work. This means someone can pass the class by doing none of the extra material he presents you. But for the majority of people, doing the extra practice problems Mr. Ratto gives out will greatly prepare you for the test he gives out and later the AP test.
Class of 2022
Out of all of my seven teachers, Mr. Ratto is by far the most accessible one. He is available before school, during flex, during lunch, after school, and responds to emails within minutes. He is always happy to go over test problems with students, and usually offers make-up problems if people score below a C on a test. Also, his teaching style is lecture based, so he'll typically lecture and write notes/diagrams on the white board before jumping into practice problems. His teaching style is simple, effective, and definitely engaging so if you're considering taking physics I would highly recommend it (Mr. Ratto is a great teacher)!