Introductory Physics I Syllabus for 2021-2022
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Course

PHYS-1305-001 Introductory Physics I

Prerequisites

Course Description

Introduction to physics for students who have limited backgrounds in science and mathematics. Topics include mechanics, properties of matter, heat and thermodynamics.

Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Conceptual Physics Fundamentals by Paul G. Hewitt (blue wave on the front cover).  Be careful if buying online, Hewitt wrote two other textbooks with similar names.

Supplies

• Scientific calculator (needs to have trigonometric functions and scientific notation) that is NOT your phone.  Dollar Tree usually carries some acceptable ones.
• Small notebook for notes (spiral, binder, or folder with pockets)
• pencils and good eraser; pens OK but not a great idea on quizzes or exams.
• Students must establish an account with Conceptual Academy as a part of the requirements for this course. 

Student Performance

This course is an introduction to physics for non-science majors who have limited backgrounds in science and mathematics. Topics covered in this course will include motion, forces, energy, momentum, mechanical waves, sound, light and nuclear theory. Conceptual knowledge will be stressed along with mathematical problem-solving.

Students will understand basic principles of physics such as:

1. the differences between constant velocity and uniform acceleration in one dimension.
2. the net force concept and how motion is determined by net force.
3. Newton's laws of motion.
4. the difference between mass and weight.
5. the force and motion concepts applied to projectile motion.
6. the conservation of energy.
7. the difference between heat and temperature.
8. the laws of thermodynamics.
9. the basic concepts of mechanical wave motion and sound.
10. the basic concepts of light and radiation.

Students will relate the basic principles of physics to real-life situations such as:

1. Races (both human, animal, and vehicular)
2. Safety features in vehicles
3. Thrill rides
4. Sports
5. Energy usage in buildings
6. Air conditioning and heating
7. Sonar use by humans and animals
8. Radar use by humans
9. Lag time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder
10. Use of corrective lenses for vision
11. The penetration of and danger due to various kinds of radiation

Students will use basic algebra and geometry in solving problems including calculations of:

1. position, displacement, velocity, and acceleration.
2. mass, weight, and net force.
3. individual forces on an object (when the net force is known).
4. energy transfers (work and heat) into and out of systems.
5. frequency, period, speed, and wavelength of mechanical waves.
6. reflection of light from mirrors

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO:

1. Be prepared by
   • studying assigned textbook pages prior to class.
   • reviewing material learned in class within 24 hours.
   • attempting the assigned homework before the key is posted.
2. Be responsible by
   • attending class (100% attendance is expected).
   • completing assigned work.
   • studying for tests.
3. Be an active learner by
   • participating in class discussions.
   • working with your classmates to figure out solutions.            
   • having a “can-do” attitude and attempting all work.
4. Be polite by
   • being on time for class.
   • turning cell phones and electronic gadgets to “silent” when in class.
   • only using electronic devices during class when allowed.
   • being respectful toward others

SOME RULES of the ROAD

1. Calculators may be used during tests but cell phones and other electronic gadgets may not.
2. Any video, images, or audio recordings may be made during class are only for personal use, or the use of students in the class (i.e. helping out a friend who’s absent).  They are not to be placed online for consumption by anyone not taking the course.
3. To be successful in this course requires you to participate in learning during class. Please refrain from using electronic devices (laptops, netbooks, ipads, smartphones, etc) during class unless it is part of a learning activity. If something urgent requires your attention please go to the hallway so you don’t disrupt others.
4. Cheating is absolutely NOT allowed. Refer to the AC Student Code of Conduct for further information.
5. Students will establish an account on Conceptual Academy as a part of the requirements for this course.
6. It will not be possible to re-create opportunities for the Activities element of this course. Students must be present on evenings we do Activities to receive credit for those assignments.
7. THERE WILL BE NO EXTRA CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES.

Grading Criteria

Major Tests                        30%    (drop lowest grade)

Conceptual Academy        20%

Problem Sets                    10%   

Activities                            10%      (drop the lowest grade)

Final Exam                        30%

NO EXTRA CREDIT

A = 89.5-100

B = 79.5-89.4

C = 69.5-79.4

D = 59.5-69.4

F = 0-59.4

The last day to drop this course is April 21st. You must submit a signed withdrawal form to the Registrar by 5PM on this date.

Attendance

Good attendance is an indicator of success in this class. Many of the activities done in class cannot be made up because of equipment usage, time, etc. Students should make every effort to be in class every time it meets.

 

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