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Materials:
Prentice Hall Conceptual Physics by Paul G. Hewitt
notebook; writing instrument (pen or pencil); scientific calculator
There are many ways of looking at the world. If we are fortunate and we are diligent every subject we study, whether it be English, history, religion, foreign language, math, science, P.E., or anything, can offer insight into our lives. In this class we will examine our world with a scientific perspective. In this class we will study the theories that scientists have developed to explain and describe our physical world.
The world of physics is a far-reaching and powerful one. It will require that you learn the vocabulary, symbols, and history of the field. We will study topics such as mechanics, energy, thermodynamics, waves, optics, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics. In addition, we will begin to see how mathematics can be used to describe the world around us. Using the basics of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, we will see that mathematics was developed for a purpose beyond giving people something to study in school. It was developed to help us describe our physical world.
But, more importantly, physics is a class where you will learn even more deeply about thinking scientifically. We will use questioning, reasoning, and the scientific method to look at different problems in the world around us--problems that not just scientists, but informed citizens in a modern, technological society need to consider. Hopefully, we will be able to look at the things we see around us every day and see them in an entirely new way. Even better, we will be able to think about them in an entirely new way and carry this way of thinking over into other fields as well as our everyday life.
I am here to give you all the help I can to make this a successful year for all of us. Yes, I am here to set challenges for you but I am also here to help you overcome them. I want to help you get as much out of this class as you possibly can. However, for that to happen you must be an active part of the process. You must pay attention in class, participate, ask questions, do the assigned work, and think about what you are doing. If you are having trouble, don't wait. Ask for help. I am available to help students outside of class every day from 7:30 am - 8:15 am & 2:45 pm - 3:30 pm in the physics lab (room 122). You can also feel free to contact me at either of my e-mail addresses at any time and I will do what I can to help you that way. Class time is limited but, if you ask for help, I will always make myself available.
To make things easier for all of us, I want to spell out in as much detail as I can exactly what it is I expect of you in this class. First of all, like all human beings, I have a pet peeve. Mine is tardiness. Be to class on time. That means be in your seat and ready to go by the time the bell rings. I will start class the moment the bell rings.
Secondly, I expect all work to be complete and turned in on time. On the day that any homework is due you will place it on the corner of your desk at the beginning of class and I will come around to collect it. I do not accept late homework for any reason other than excused absence from class and then I expect homework to be turned in immediately upon your return.
Your final grade will be determined on the basis of four different areas. They are:
Tests: (50% of grade) The date of a test will be announced at least a three days in advance. You will be allowed one complete class period only to complete tests. Anyone allowed extra time must make arrangements with me in advance of the test or I will expect you to complete the test within the class period. You are allowed to make-up tests if you have an excused absence on the test day. This will be a different, more difficult test that will be completed during the Saturday Study Hall immediately following the test day. Missing the make-up test day results in a zero for that test.
Quizzes/Labs/Demos/Projects: (25% of grade) We will have quizzes on current material periodically. The quizzes cover a variety of recent material for which I will give you at least one days' warning. We will also do labs, demos and projects periodically to show that physics is applicable to reality--one of it's most important purposes.
Homework: (25% of grade) Understanding the techniques physicists use to describe our world takes practice. Expect to have to spend some time on physics every day to be successful. I will give you various assignments from the book and other sources. The amount of time you have to complete these various assignments will be specified when the assignment is given.
These three areas are totaled separately and then weighted as above to give a grade total of 100%. Periodically, I will give you a grade report so you will know where you stand. Cheating, of course, will not be tolerated and will result in a zero for that assignment.
In terms of your behavior in the classroom, I expect mainly this: have respect for me as well as your classmates. This means you do not talk while someone else is talking, you do not create disturbances or messes in the classroom, and you do not get into other people's property. I want us to be able to have discussions, demonstrations, and do problems during class in which everyone can participate; however, this cannot happen unless everyone feels comfortable with each other--a feeling that develops through mutual respect.
Of course, I don't expect to have to deal with any problems like this. I expect that we will learn a lot together and have a great year.
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