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Catalog Description: Energy is used as the theme to develop a basic understanding of introductory principles of physics. Energy topics include mechanical, acoustic, heat, electric, radiant and nuclear energy, together with practical applications. One of 3 GS courses required to satisfy an "A-list" science sequence. Taught: Fall (days) and Winter quarters (evenings). Lecture: 3, Lab: 2, Credits: 4.
Prerequisites: One year of high school algebra or concurrent enrollment in MTH 060.
GS 104 Physics Course Syllabus, Fall 2003
Instructor: Dr. Bob Reynolds
Office: Ochoco 237 phone #: 383-7557
Office hours: M-W-F 9-10 AM; T-R 10:30-11 AM
e-mail: breynolds@cocc.edu
Course Materials
Text: Physics: Foundations of Physical Science by Tillery
GS 104 Course Packet, calculator
Introduction. At its most basic level, the study of physics is the study of energy. Unlike matter, energy is not a substance that we can easily hold. Much of what we know about energy comes from our study of the interaction of energy with matter (the stuff we can hold). Accordingly, the purpose of this course is to explore some of the basic forms of energy found in our universe. Along the way we will use scientific reasoning to develop a basic understanding of the principles related to several types of energy. We will also investigate the many ways in which we use energy to our advantage in modern society.
At this point you should be registered for both a lecture and a lab section of this course. I assume that you have had no previous exposure to physics, but some exposure to basic high school algebra. You should be aware from advising that GS104 Physics is one of several courses that can be used to fulfill the science sequence requirement for an associate’s degree. In this sequence GS104 (Physics) and GS105 (Chemistry) are required, plus one additional GS course of your choice from among the following: GS106 (Geology), GS107 (Astronomy), GS108 (Oceanography). Knowledge of basic high school algebra (equivalent to Math 60) is assumed for all GS courses.
Knowing which way you are going is an important part of physics
Lecture. The various energy topics that we will cover are outlined on the following class schedule. The introductory nature of this course dictates that we cannot spend too much time on any one topic. However, please be aware that there is a significant amount of material that will be covered. You will therefore need to spend an appropriate amount of time studying. Speaking from experience, you are likely to get more understanding out of the lectures if you keep up with your assignments and read the assigned material in the text before you come to class. Study guides are provided in your course packet to help you in preparing for exams. In consideration of other students, you are urged not to walk into class late or engage in any unnecessary conversation during the lecture.
Homework. Throughout the course you will be assigned homework problems that relate to the current topic. The purpose of the homework is to help you understand the concepts and to give you practice making calculations similar to those you might encounter on a test. The homework assignments are due at the following lecture lecture after they are assigned. In order for me to grade and return your assignments quickly, work must be turned in on time, therefore I do not accept late assignments.
Gravity coring in East Lake. Physics experiments employ unusual equipment in exotic locations
Lab. Lab activities will be conducted weekly in Ochoco 210. In the lab we will be performing a variety of experiments and/or homework assignments that demonstrate important concepts in physics. The purpose of the lab is to help you understand the concepts, to stimulate your curiosity and to give you practice making calculations similar to those you might encounter on a test. In addition, the lab will provide you with the opportunity to ask me questions in a more informal setting. I will provide a short introduction at the start of each lab. The remainder of the time will be devoted to working on your lab and/or homework assignment. Bring your text, class notes, calculator and lab manual to every lab. The experimental part of your lab activity must be completed and turned in before you leave the lab. The homework assignment part of the lab is due at the following lecture. In order for me to grade and return your assignments quickly, work must be turned in on time, therefore I do not accept late assignments. If you have a conflict and cannot attend a lab, you should contact me ahead of time to make other arrangements. Be aware that I generally do not allow makeups for "after-the-fact" excuses or repeated absences.
How to Obtain Course Materials. The following is a list of ways that you can access the various course related materials. In addition, I will set aside time during the first week for folks who are interested in learning how to use the computer to access course materials.
1. The text and complete course packet can be purchased from the college bookstore.
2. The text and complete course packet have been placed on 3 hr reserve at the library. You can read the text there and photocopy any of my course packet materials.
3. Parts of the course packet (syllabus, study guide, and lecture handouts) are located else where within this course web site. In addition, an Adobe PDF version of the course packet can be downloaded here: GS 104 Physics course packet
Grading. There are a total of 460 possible points for the course. Three 100-point exams will be given during the quarter, the dates of which are listed on the accompanying class schedule. Study guides are provided in your course packet to help you in preparing for exams. The exams will consist of a combination mathematical calculations and essay questions. All exams are “closed book”. This means you may use only the information stored in your brain to complete a test. You cannot use notes, texts, or another student to assist you, nor can you assist another student in completing their exam. I consider all of these to be cheating offenses and you will receive a score of “0” for the exam. You must take the exams on the designated date and time. If you miss an exam you will get a “0” for that test. If you have special testing requirements or an emergency, you should contact me before the exam. The grade that you earn will be based upon the scores you receive in the categories listed below. In figuring you final grade, I will drop the score of your lowest one lab and homework activity. Final grades will be assigned as follows: A = 93-100%, A- = 90-92%, B+ = 87-89%, B = 83-86%, B- = 80-82%, C+ = 77-79%, C = 70-76%, D = 60-69%, F < 60%.
Grade category
Extra credit? Occasionally students ask if there is anything they can do to improve their grade. My first response is always: “Yes, study more.” I say that because I know from experience that most students do not study as much as they should. Having said that, a limited amount of extra credit (up to 20 points) is available in this course. So what can you do for extra credit? I’m open to various research ideas relating to physics, especially those that relate physics to your major or some other aspect of your life. You should get your topic approved by me first, however, before beginning. You should also understand that extra credit means, "Credit in addition to what is normally required". Extra credit is not a substitute for the assignments and tests that you should have completed. Therefore, extra credit will count towards your grade only if you've completed all of your other assignments and taken all of the tests. Your extra credit will be added to the overall point total.
I have structured this course so as to provide equal opportunities for all students to succeed. In addition, I try very hard to treat everyone fairly and to base grades upon on objective academic criteria. Moreover, I am very willing to help students that are having difficulty providing they show up for class regularly and come prepared and willing to try. In most cases the grade you earn will reflect your effort. If you are having difficulty or feel that you need additional help, please contact me in person, by phone or by e-mail. Results from over 500 students so far indicate that most of you will do quite well; perhaps even better than you might have imagined. However, those who include dishonesty, chronic absenteeism or habitual excuses in their academic repertoire generally find my courses, and college in general, difficult. Your education is an investment in your future. I encourage you to make the most of it. Welcome to the universe of physics and may the energy be with you!
Copyright, 1997 Bob Reynolds.
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Last updated: September 13, 1999.
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