PHYS 213: Engineering Physics I – Syllabus and Course Overview (Fall 2026)

Course Overview

Introduction to Engineering Physics I

PHYS 213: Engineering Physics I is a foundational course designed for students in engineering and the physical sciences. The course covers the fundamental principles of physics, focusing on mechanics, heat, and fluids, and integrates both theoretical and experimental approaches. Calculus is used throughout the course to analyze and solve physical problems.

• Instructor: Dr. Barbara Fennell

• Textbook: Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach, 5th ed., Knight, Pearson

• Course Components: Lecture, Studio (lab and problem-solving), and Quiz sections

• Credit Hours: 5

Course Structure and Logistics

Course Sections and Attendance

• Lecture: Two sessions per week, focusing on conceptual understanding

• Studio: Hands-on experiments and group problem-solving; mandatory attendance

• Quizzes/Exams: Regular unit exams and a comprehensive final exam

Students must be enrolled in all three sections. Excessive absences or lack of participation in studio will result in a failing grade.

Required and Provided Materials

• Required: MasteringPhysics access (via Canvas), scientific calculator (non-internet), computer with PDF capability

• Provided: Studio Manual (Canvas), Studio Notebook, Scantron cards for quizzes

Learning Objectives

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Apply conceptual frameworks to analyze physical situations in mechanics, heat, and fluids

• Recall and use physical models with symbolic and numerical analysis

• Utilize problem-solving techniques for multi-step, context-rich problems

• Perform and analyze experiments, including error and uncertainty analysis

Course Content Areas

Main Topics Covered

• Translational and Rotational Motion

• Force and Newton's Laws

• Work, Energy, and Power

• Linear and Angular Momentum

• Mechanical Waves

• Fluid Mechanics

• Thermal Energy and Heat

Additional info: These topics correspond to the following chapters from the standard calculus-based physics curriculum: Concepts of Motion, Kinematics, Newton's Laws, Work and Energy, Momentum, Rotation, Gravity, Fluids, and Thermodynamics.

Grading and Assessment

Graded Components and Weighting

Component	Weight
Online Homework	12%
Studio Lab Write-ups	13%
Studio Problem-Solving	13%
Lecture Participation	+2% (extra credit)
Unit Exams	44%
Final Exam	18%

• Homework: Assigned twice weekly via MasteringPhysics; lowest 3 scores dropped

• Studio: Group lab reports and problem-solving; lowest 3 scores dropped

• Exams: Four unit exams (lowest dropped), plus a mandatory final exam

• Participation: Earned via in-class responses; only adds to grade

Grade Boundaries

Letter Grade	Lower Boundary (%)
A	89.50
B	79.50
C	69.50
D	59.50
F	Below 59.50

Note: No rounding or extra credit assignments beyond participation. Failing to attend studio or scoring below 30% on the final exam results in an automatic F.

Course Policies

Make-up and Attendance Policy

• No make-ups for homework, studio, or participation; lowest scores dropped to accommodate absences

• Make-ups for exams only with University-policy excused absences

• Final exam is mandatory

Academic Integrity and Conduct

• Honor Pledge applies to all coursework: "On my honor, as a student, I have neither given nor received unauthorized aid on this academic work."

• Violations may result in an XF grade (failure due to academic dishonesty)

• Classroom conduct must follow University policies; disruptive behavior may result in removal from class

Inclusivity and Accessibility

• Accommodations available through the Student Access Center for students with disabilities

• Commitment to mutual respect, inclusion, and a supportive learning environment

• Resources available for reporting discrimination, harassment, or sexual harassment

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• AI tools may be used for learning and idea generation, but not for fully producing assignments

• Students are expected to understand and reproduce solutions independently

Student Support and Resources

Academic and Personal Support

• Physics Help Room and SAS tutoring available

• University Academic Achievement Center for additional support

• Mental health resources: Counseling and Psychological Services, Lafene Health Center, K-State Family Center, CARE

• Office of Student Life for academic and personal assistance

Summary Table: Key Course Features

Feature	Description
Course Focus	Mechanics, heat, fluids (calculus-based)
Assessment	Homework, labs, problem-solving, exams, participation
Attendance	Mandatory for studio; required for success
Support	Instructor, help room, tutoring, mental health services
Academic Integrity	Strictly enforced; Honor Pledge applies

Conclusion

PHYS 213: Engineering Physics I is a rigorous, calculus-based introduction to the core principles of physics, emphasizing both conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. Success in this course requires consistent effort, participation in all course components, and adherence to academic integrity and university policies. Students are encouraged to seek help early and utilize the many resources available to support their learning and well-being.