Physics I: Syllabus and Course Structure

Course Overview

This course is an introductory college-level Physics I class, focusing on the fundamental principles of mechanics. It is designed to fulfill general education requirements and to provide a strong foundation in physics for science majors and other interested students.

• Lecture Times: MWF 10:00 – 10:50

• Discussion: W 2:00 – 2:50

• Office Hours: M 1:00 – 2:00, W (ZOOM) 11:30 – 12:30, F 1:00 – 2:00 (or by appointment)

• Textbook: Physics by Walker (2016), Pearson. Mastering Physics online system required.

Course Web Page and Resources

• All course information, including the syllabus, lecture notes, quizzes, and practice exams, will be posted online.

• Students are expected to check the course web page regularly for updates and assignments.

• Lecture notes are a critical resource and will be posted after each class.

Course Content

The course covers the following main topics:

• Kinematics: Study of motion, including speed, velocity, and acceleration.

• Forces and Newton's Laws: Understanding the relationship between forces and motion.

• Work and Energy: Concepts of work, kinetic and potential energy, and conservation of energy.

• Momentum and Collisions: Linear momentum, impulse, and conservation of momentum.

• Rotational Motion: Angular velocity, angular acceleration, torque, and rotational dynamics.

• Oscillations: Simple harmonic motion and related phenomena.

• Gravitation: Newton's law of universal gravitation and applications.

General Education Goals

• Quantitative Reasoning: Apply quantitative concepts and mathematical methods to solve problems.

• Scientific Reasoning: Apply scientific thinking in analysis and problem-solving.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze mechanical systems using visualization, modeling, and equations.

• Apply Newton's laws to solve problems involving forces, energy, and momentum.

• Mathematically describe physical systems through the language of kinematics and dynamics.

• Communicate scientific ideas and results effectively in written and oral forms.

Course Requirements and Grading

• Attendance: Required for all classes. Students are responsible for all material covered in class.

• Homework: Assigned weekly via Mastering Physics. Late homework is not accepted.

• Quizzes: Three quizzes per semester, focused on identifying and correcting misconceptions.

• Exams: Three in-class exams and a comprehensive final exam. Exams are closed book, but a formula sheet is provided.

• Laboratory: Required component for understanding experimental aspects of physics. Labs must be completed to pass the course.

Grading Scale

Policies and Expectations

• Attendance: Required for all course materials and assessments.

• Homework: Must be submitted on time; late work is not accepted.

• Phone Policy: Phones must be silenced and put away during class and exams.

• Academic Integrity: All work must be your own. Cheating or plagiarism will result in disciplinary action.

• Make-up Policy: Make-up exams are only given for university-excused absences.

Support and Resources

• Tutoring: Available through the Learning Assistance Center (LARC).

• Disability Accommodations: Contact the Office of Educational Accessibility (OEA) for support.

• Sexual Violence and Title IX: University policies apply; resources are available for support.

• Inclusive Learning Environment: The course is committed to diversity, equity, and respect for all students.

Additional Information

• Students are expected to check their university email regularly for course communications.

• All official university policies regarding grading, attendance, and conduct apply.

Example: Application of Newton's Second Law

• Definition: Newton's Second Law states that the net force on an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration.

• Formula:

• Example: If a 2 kg object experiences a net force of 10 N, its acceleration is m/s2.

Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of course structure, expectations, and resources for success in Physics I. Students are encouraged to utilize all available support services and to engage actively with course materials.