Introduction to Physics I

Class Structure & Syllabus - Spring 2006

I. Grading:

• Exam I - 20%
• Exam II - 20%
• Quizzes - 10%
• Homework - 30%
• Final Exam - 20%

II. Homework:

Homework problems are due on the date indicated in the syllabus, typically 1 week after the professor finishes lecturing on the materials. Late homework assignments are penalized! Assignments < 2 days late will receive 60% credit. Assignments handed in after the solutions are posted on the web will receive 30% credit. From a grade perspective, you must complete the homework assignments (even if they are late)!!!!!!

You are encouraged to work together in a team effort on the homework. Take care that your understanding of the homework is thorough! Our goals are to develop your logic skills, your problem solving skills and to build competency in Physics!! This class deals with some quite abstract concepts. They can be a challenge to understand on first reading. However, through the homework and our work in class we will gain a good working knowledge of these concepts. As the class progresses, all of you will begin to feel more comfortable with these “far out” thoughts and new and different ways of thinking about everyday physical phenomena.

We will work together to develop your competency with several mathematical tools. We will especially focus on Microsoft Excel for many of our computations and graphical solutions. You should make sure that you have a copy on your computer!! You should expect that you will become competent in the use of Excel by the end of the semester.

III. Quizzes and Exams:

On alternating Thursdays we will have either an in-class, closed book quiz (see syllabus) or a problem session. For the quizzes you may bring a single page of formulae into the quiz. Quizzes will be discussed and corrected in class. For the problem sessions come prepared to work the problems on the board.

Exams are closed book “in class” 2 hour exams. You will be allowed to bring a single page of formulae into the exam.

IV. Text:

Tipler and Mosca / Physics of Scientists and Engineers / 5th edition Volumes I & II
Chapters 1-14 and 17-18 (see syllabus for details) – Freeman publisher.

Click here to download class syllabus

Click here to download studyguides, exam, quiz & problem solutions

Click here to download additional information

V. Office hours:

• Monday 1:30-3:30 PM and Thursday  9:00AM -10:30 AM
• Special appointment or homework questions - Leave an E-mail message: bryant.hichwa@sonoma.edu or bhichwa@earthlink.net