Course Overview

Introduction to Physics 20: General Physics I

This course is the first in a two-semester sequence of algebra-based physics, primarily designed for students in the life sciences. The focus is on classical mechanics, including Newton's laws, conservation of energy, and the mathematical modeling of physical phenomena. The course aims to develop students' intuition, problem-solving skills, and ability to communicate scientific ideas.

• Course Title: Physics 20: General Physics I

• Institution: College of the Sequoias

• Instructor: Dr. Marc Royster

• Prerequisite: College-level algebra (MATH 154 or equivalent)

• Textbook: Knight, R.D., Jones, B., & Field, S., College Physics: a strategic approach, 4th Ed. (Pearson)

Course Structure and Assessment

Assessment Components

The course uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student understanding and skills. Grades are determined by the following components:

• Prelecture Reading (5%): Short quizzes to encourage preparation and reading before class.

• Participation (5%): Group activities, exit questions, and engagement in class and online forums.

• Homework (15%): Weekly assignments focusing on conceptual and quantitative problems.

• Homework Quizzes (20%): Short quizzes based on recent homework.

• Lab (19%): Collaborative experiments and lab reports.

• Exams (36%): Three exams, each with problem-solving and conceptual multiple-choice sections.

Grading Scale

Weekly Schedule

Typical Week Structure

The course follows a consistent weekly schedule, with lectures, quizzes, labs, and homework due dates. The schedule may vary during exam weeks.

Course Topics and Learning Outcomes

Major Topics Covered

The course covers foundational topics in classical mechanics and introductory thermodynamics. Below is a list of main topics, aligned with standard Physics with Algebra curriculum:

• Math Review: Algebraic manipulation and problem-solving techniques.

• 1D Motion / Kinematics: Description of motion in one dimension, including position, velocity, and acceleration.

• Vectors: Representation and manipulation of quantities with magnitude and direction.

• 2D Kinematics & Projectile Motion: Analysis of motion in two dimensions, including projectiles.

• Newton's Laws: Fundamental principles governing forces and motion.

• Circular Motion & Gravitation: Motion in circles and gravitational interactions.

• Torque & Rotational Motion: Rotational dynamics, moments of inertia, and angular momentum.

• Momentum & Collisions: Conservation of momentum and analysis of collisions.

• Energy & Conservation Laws: Work, kinetic and potential energy, and conservation principles.

• Thermal Physics & Ideal Gas Law: Properties of gases, temperature, and thermodynamic laws.

• Oscillations & Waves: Simple harmonic motion and wave phenomena.

Sample Learning Outcomes

• Bernoulli’s Law: Analyze incompressible fluid flow to determine pressure and velocity at various points.

• Conservation of Energy: Apply work and energy principles to predict object motion on surfaces with friction.

• Projectile Motion: Calculate maximum height, time of flight, and range for projectiles given initial conditions.

Sample Formulas and Concepts

Projectile Motion

• Maximum Height:

• Time of Flight:

• Range:

Conservation of Energy

• Work-Energy Principle:

• Mechanical Energy Conservation:

Bernoulli’s Law

• Bernoulli’s Equation:

Accessibility and Academic Integrity

Accessibility

The course is designed to be accessible to all students. Support services are available for students requiring accommodations, such as extended testing time or note-taking assistance. Students are encouraged to contact the Access & Ability Center or the ADA Coordinator for support.

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to uphold high standards of academic integrity. Cheating and plagiarism are not tolerated and will be reported to the Dean’s Office if suspected.

Course Schedule Outline

Weekly Topics

Summary

Physics 20: General Physics I provides a comprehensive introduction to classical mechanics and foundational physics concepts using algebra. The course structure, assessment, and weekly schedule are designed to support student learning and mastery of key physics principles relevant to life sciences and general STEM fields.