Course Overview

Introduction

This syllabus outlines the structure, requirements, and resources for PHYS 2320, a college-level physics course designed for students with a calculus background. The course covers fundamental concepts in electricity and magnetism, with a focus on electric charge, electric field, electric potential, magnetic field, and magnetic induction. It also addresses the components and characteristics of electric circuits (AC and DC) and the application of these concepts to engineering problems.

• Course Coordinator: Prof. Paula Herrera-Siklody

• Course Secretary: Reagan Osgood

• Location: Physics Hall, Iowa State University

• Lecture Times: Multiple sections offered MWF

• Recitations: Thursdays, various times and locations

Prerequisites

Required Background

Students must have completed the following courses or their honors equivalents:

• MATH 1660

• PHYS 2310 (or PHYS 2310H, PHYS 221, PHYS 221H, PHYS 2410, PHYS 2410H)

Course Materials

Textbook and Online Homework

The course uses the Iowa State University Immediate Access ONE Program for required materials:

• Textbook: University Physics, Young and Freedman (Pearson, Addison Wesley)

• Online Homework: MasteringPhysics

Students are automatically enrolled in the program. Access to digital content is provided via Canvas. Physical materials can be picked up at the university bookstore.

Optional Materials

• Drawing Device: Useful for hand-written equations and sketches.

• OpenStax University Physics (Volumes 1-3): Free online resources recommended for additional study.

Course Structure

Lectures

Lectures are held three times a week (MWF), each lasting 50 minutes. Interactive segments using Top Hat are included. Attendance and participation are strongly encouraged.

• Top Hat: Classroom response system for in-class questions. Participation earns extra credit.

• Lecture Codes: Provided for each section to join Top Hat sessions.

Recitations

Recitations are interactive sessions held on Thursdays. Students work in small groups on assigned worksheets, with guidance from the instructor. The last 10 minutes are reserved for a short quiz.

• Quiz Policy: Must be completed individually. Only official formula sheets and scientific calculators allowed.

• Attendance: Required for credit. Skipping or missing recitations may require make-up arrangements.

Homework

Weekly assignments are completed online via MasteringPhysics and are due Wednesdays at 11:59 PM. Homework is not for credit but is essential for practice and mastery of the material.

• Submission: Unlimited attempts allowed without penalty.

• Late Policy: 10% penalty per day, up to a maximum of 50% deduction.

Exams and Assessments

• Exams: Three midterms and a comprehensive final exam.

• Checkpoints: Two exam-style questions on Tuesdays.

• Grading: Details provided in the course; includes participation, homework, recitation quizzes, and exams.

Learning Objectives

Upon Completion, Students Will Be Able To:

• Interpret and apply the concepts of electric charge, electric field, electric potential, magnetic field, and magnetic induction.

• Identify the components and characteristics of electric circuits (AC and DC).

• Apply the concepts of electricity and magnetism to solve engineering applications.

Course Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Regular attendance is strongly correlated with student success.

• Active participation in lectures and recitations is expected.

Academic Integrity

• Course material may not be posted online or shared publicly.

• Violations will be prosecuted as academic dishonesty.

Special Accommodations

• Students requiring accommodations should contact Student Accessibility Services (SAS).

Resources and Support

Help Sessions

• Several help sessions are offered each week for additional support.

• Supplemental Instruction (SI) is available and voluntary.

Canvas

• Central hub for course materials, announcements, grades, and assignments.

• Students should adjust notification settings to stay updated.

Sample Table: Recitation Sections

The following table summarizes the recitation sections, times, rooms, instructors, and contact information:

Additional Info

• Top Hat: Used for interactive lecture questions and extra credit.

• MasteringPhysics: Online homework platform for practice and skill development.

• Canvas: Main platform for course communication, materials, and grades.

• Help Sessions and SI: Voluntary group study opportunities for additional support.

Additional info: This syllabus is for a calculus-based physics course, not a pure calculus course, but is highly relevant for calculus students studying physics applications.