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Welcome to General Physics II, Spring 2009
Course Information
Texts: Project Physics 2 by Travis Norsen, Understanding Physics (Part 1) by Cummings et al
Prerequisites: General Physics I or equivalent
Course Overview: Second half of the year-long introductory physics sequence. In the first half of the semester we will study one of the great pre-20th century physics theories, Newtonian gravitation. This theory will serve as an integrating theme for topics including rotational dynamics and astronomy. After spring break we will choose from a handful of possible paths based on class interest.
Assignments and Grading: Weekly homework assignments will ask students to analyze and report the results of in-class experiments, relate material from class with concepts from the text, and solve problems. Since the course centers around the in-class activities, attendance, class-participation, diligence, preparation, and seriousness will be worth 20% of final grade. The weekly homework assignments will be worth 40%. There will be occasional quizzes throughout the semester worth a total of 20%, and a final exam will be worth 20%.
Course Policies
- Attendance is expected. Remember that 20% of your grade depends on your in class performance!
- Late work will not be accepted without prior arrangement.
- Students are encouraged to work together on the homework assignments (and to get help from me or the tutor.) However, your final write-up of the solutions must represent your own understanding; copying another person's work is plagiarism and will result in no credit. If there is any question about a specific case, simply cite your sources as you would in any kind of research paper (e.g.," I worked with Joe Schmoe on this problem.").
Schedule
See 'syllabus' on left navigation bar.
