Course Overview

Introduction

PHY 101 – College Physics I at the University of Miami is an introductory course in classical mechanics and related areas of physics, designed for students who are learning physics with algebra. The course emphasizes both conceptual understanding and quantitative problem-solving skills.

Course Structure and Major Topics

Main Topics Covered

• One- and Two-Dimensional Motion (Kinematics)

• Newton’s Laws of Motion

• Work, Energy, Momentum, and Collisions

• Rotational Motion, Rotational Dynamics, and Gravitation

• Oscillations and Waves

• Fluid Mechanics and Introductory Thermodynamics

These topics correspond to the following textbook chapters:

• Ch 01: Introduction to Physics

• Ch 02: One-Dimensional Kinematics

• Ch 03: Vectors in Physics

• Ch 04: Two Dimensional Kinematics

• Ch 05: Newton's Laws of Motion

• Ch 06: Applications of Newton's Laws

• Ch 07: Work & Kinetic Energy

• Ch 08: Potential Energy & Conservation of Energy

• Ch 09: Linear Momentum & Collisions

• Ch 10: Rotational Kinematics and Energy

• Ch 11: Rotational Dynamics and Static Equilibrium

• Ch 12: Gravity

• Ch 13: Oscillations About Equilibrium

• Ch 14: Waves & Sound

• Ch 15: Fluids

• Ch 16: Temperature & Heat

Course Learning Outcomes

• Communicate fundamental concepts in classical physics clearly and effectively.

• Apply the scientific method and mathematical techniques to solve physics problems.

• Analyze physical situations and develop systematic problem-solving approaches.

• Interpret numerical and conceptual results in the context of physical systems.

Course Components and Grading

Assessment Structure

• Three midterm exams

• One comprehensive final exam (counts as two grade components)

• Homework assignments (via Mastering Physics)

• Discussion-session quizzes

• In-lecture quizzes

The final course grade is calculated from the best five out of six 100-point components (the lowest is dropped):

• Midterm Exam 1 – 100 points

• Midterm Exam 2 – 100 points

• Midterm Exam 3 – 100 points

• Final Exam, Part 1 – 100 points

• Final Exam, Part 2 – 100 points

• Homework and quizzes – 100 points

Homework and Quiz Breakdown

Final Letter Grades

Course Schedule

Comprehensive Final Exam: Monday, December 7

Expectations and Success Strategies

• Attend and participate in all assigned lectures and discussion sections.

• Complete homework and quizzes by the announced deadlines.

• Monitor the course management system (Canvas) for updates and grades.

• Ask questions when concepts are unclear.

• Maintain academic integrity in all coursework.

Tips for Success

• Work through homework problems independently before consulting solutions.

• Study worked examples in the textbook for problem-solving strategies.

• Use online resources such as Pearson MyLab & Mastering.

• Practice physics consistently throughout the week.

• Stay organized and keep up with all course requirements.

Exam and Attendance Policies

• All exams are closed-book; a formula sheet is provided.

• Cell phones and unauthorized electronics are not permitted during exams.

• Unexcused absences from exams or required quizzes result in a grade of zero.

• Approved absences require documentation and should be discussed with the instructor in advance.

• Makeup exams are generally not given after the fact.

Contact and Resources

• Instructor: Dr. Javad Farrokhi

• Email: mxf1177@miami.edu

• Office Hours: Tuesday 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Thursday 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

• Textbook: Physics, James S. Walker, 5th Edition

Additional Info

• The syllabus may be updated as needed; changes will be communicated via Canvas or in class.

• Students are responsible for keeping up with all course communications and requirements.