Physics 141

Winter Quarter 2007

Course Syllabus

Instructor: Dr. Robert Echols, rechols@calpoly.edu, 756-2656, www.calpoly.edu/~rechols

Office Hours: M, W, R and F 3:10-4:00 p.m., and R 10-11:00 p.m. in my office, 52-E36.

Schedule: M, W, R, and F 1:10-2:00 (Sec 9) or 2:10-3:00 (Sec 19) in building 53, room 202

Textbook: R. Knight, Physics for Scientists and Engineers

Exams:

We will have three exams throughout the quarter. Exam dates will be announced in class.

Homework:

The homework is a critical part of understanding the material covered in this course. Physics can only be learned by working many different types of problems. If you can't solve a problem the first time, have somebody show you how. At a later time, try working the problem again without looking at the solution. The exam questions will be similar to the homework problems; consequently it will be essential to understand the homework. Homework is due as announced in class and will not be accepted after this date. In addition to the help I can provide during my office hours, the learning center in 52-A03 will be staffed with somebody who can help you with the homework during the hours posted outside the door. Individual tutors are available at a price by inquiring with the physics department office (52-D37) for a list. You can also sign up for a study session at the Cal Poly portal.

On-Line Homework:

The on-line homework system, “mastering physics”, will be used during the quarter. To learn more about creating an account and using this homework system look at the handout, using “mastering physics” available in class today and from my web page. To log on the first time you will need our course ID number, MPECHOLS0009.

Workbook:

The workbook will not be collected and graded. However, the workbook will help tremendously towards focusing your reading and preparing you for the homework problems. I would recommend working the corresponding workbook section after reading each section in the textbook. Workbook solutions will be posted on my web page as we start each new chapter.

Activities:

Throughout the quarter we will be conducting experiments that are introduced in class and finished outside of class. Since physics is an experimental science, my hope is these experiments will increase your understanding of the material covered in lecture in the absence of a formal laboratory experiment.

Grading:

Your final grade will be based on your overall performance in the class with the following approximate percentages: three exams (55/50%), homework and activities (15%), and final exam (30/35%).