PHY 111: Living Physics I – Syllabus and Course Structure Overview

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Course Overview

Introduction to PHY 111: Living Physics I

PHY 111: Living Physics I is the first part of a two-semester, algebra-based introductory physics sequence with an emphasis on biological and chemical systems. The course integrates regular class meetings, labs, and exams, focusing on modeling physical interactions in living systems using mechanical and electrical forces.

Course Emphasis: Application of physics concepts to biological and chemical contexts.
Prerequisites: High school algebra, recommended chemistry background.
Textbook: NEXUS/Physics for life-science students (online resource).

Course Topics

Main Areas Covered

The syllabus outlines the following major topics, many of which align with foundational college physics:

Modeling of physical interactions in terms of mechanical and electrical forces
Random motion of entities
Fluid mechanics, viscosity, and surface tension
Energy transfer and mechanical movement
Thermal fluctuations and heat transfer
Temperature gradients

Course Learning Goals

Skills and Knowledge Development

Upon completion, students will be able to:

Represent physical systems using force, energy, and momentum models
Apply physics models and mathematics to understand biological and chemical systems
Interpret and analyze data from experiments and models
Communicate scientific reasoning and results effectively

Course Structure and Requirements

Class Meetings and Out-of-Class Time

Weekly class meetings: Wednesdays, 2:40–4:00 pm
Lab activities: Collaborative, inquiry-based experiments
Homework assignments: Practice problems, critical thinking, and self-assessment
Unit exams: Demonstrate mastery of concepts
Cumulative final exam: Covers all course material

Grading Policy

Grade Weighting

Pre-lecture reading and class participation: 10%
Lab activities (including pre- and post-lab questions): 15%
Homework (review, self-grading, retake opportunities): 15%
Unit exams (three total, each with a retake opportunity): 45%
Cumulative final exam: 15%

Grading Scale

The course uses a 4.0 grade scale, mapped to a 100-point scale for assignments and exams.

Letter Grade	Numerical GPA Equivalent	Range on 4-point scale	Range on 100-point scale
A	4.0 (independent)	3.7 - 4.0	92.5 - 100%
A-	3.7	3.3 - 3.6	87.5 - 92.4%
B+	3.3	3.0 - 3.2	82.5 - 87.4%
B	3.0 (proficient)	2.7 - 2.9	77.5 - 82.4%
B-	2.7	2.3 - 2.6	72.5 - 77.4%
C+	2.3	2.0 - 2.2	67.5 - 72.4%
C	2.0 (developing)	1.7 - 1.9	62.5 - 67.4%
C-	1.7	1.3 - 1.6	57.5 - 62.4%
D+	1.3	1.0 - 1.2	52.5 - 57.4%
D	1.0 (rudimentary)	0.7 - 0.9	47.5 - 52.4%
E	0.0	Below 0.7	17.5 - 47.4%
F	0.0	Below 0.7	Below 17.5%

Lab Activities

Collaborative Experimental Approach

Students work in teams to investigate physical models under different conditions.
Lab reports require analysis, data interpretation, and reflection on results.
Alternative assignments available for students unable to attend labs.

Homework and Self-Assessment

Practice and Critical Review

Homework assignments focus on problem-solving and conceptual understanding.
Self-grading criteria emphasize critical thinking and error analysis.
Students may revise and resubmit assignments for partial credit.

Exams

Unit Exams and Final Exam

Unit exams test mastery of major concepts and models.
Retake opportunities available for each unit exam.
Cumulative final exam covers all course material.

Accessibility and Support

Student Resources

Accessibility accommodations available through campus resources.
Support services include tutoring, workshops, and library assistance.

Honor Code and Academic Integrity

Ethical Standards

Students are expected to adhere to the college honor code.
Proper citation and acknowledgment of sources required.

Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

Policy Statement

AI tools may be used for preparation and understanding, but not for direct completion of graded assignments.
Students must demonstrate independent understanding and problem-solving.

Additional info: The syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of course structure, expectations, and support resources, but does not include detailed physics content or equations. For specific study notes on physics topics, refer to the course textbook and lecture materials.