BackSyllabus and Course Structure: Introduction to Basic Physics (PHY 145)
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Course Overview
This syllabus outlines the structure, objectives, and policies for the course Introduction to Basic Physics (PHY 145) at Jackson College. The course is designed for non-science majors and covers foundational topics in physics, including mechanics, properties of matter, waves, sound, heat, and light.
Course Information
Instructor: Sushil Bokilwar
Contact: bokilwarsushil@jccmi.edu
Term: Spring 2020
Format: Online
Duration: January 12 – March 1, 2020
Meeting Times: Asynchronous (online)
Course Description
This course introduces the fundamental concepts of physics for non-science majors. Topics include motion, forces, energy, properties of matter, waves, sound, heat, and light. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding and real-world applications.
Prerequisites
MAT 019 or equivalent
Course Goals
To provide non-science majors with a basic understanding of physical phenomena.
To develop scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills.
To relate physics concepts to everyday experiences and societal issues.
Course Objectives
Understand and apply fundamental physics concepts.
Develop the ability to analyze and solve basic physics problems.
Appreciate the role of physics in technology and society.
Textbook
MasteringPhysics with Pearson e-text for Conceptual Physics by Paul G. Hewitt, 13th edition
ISBN: 9780135740377
Access to MasteringPhysics is required for assignments and quizzes.
Grading Procedure
Grades are based on forum posts, practice homework, quizzes, and exams.
Weighted average is used to determine the final grade.
Grading Scale
Minimum Grade | 4.0 | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.5 | 2.0 | 1.5 | 1.0 | 0.0 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Percent | 93 | 88 | 83 | 78 | 73 | 68 | 60 | <60 |
Course Policies
Attendance: Participation in online activities is required.
Late Work: 25% penalty for late assignments and quizzes. No extensions after due date.
Academic Honesty: Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.
Accommodations: Students with disabilities should contact the Center for Student Success.
Course Schedule
Session | Date | Chapters/Reading | Topics |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Thu Jan-15 | 2.2 – 2.7 | Introduction to Mastering Physics |
2 | Sun Jan-18 | 3.1 – 3.5 | Mathematics Review, Newton's First Law of Motion |
3 | Tue Jan-21 | 3.1 – 3.5 | Linear Motion |
4 | Thu Jan-23 | 4.1 – 4.8 | Newton's Second Law of Motion |
5 | Sun Jan-25 | 5.1 – 5.5, 5.9 – 5.13 | Newton's Third Law of Motion |
6 | Tue Jan-28 | 6.1 – 6.6 | Momentum |
7 | Thu Jan-30 | 7.1 – 7.6 | Energy |
8 | Sun Feb-2 | 8.1 – 8.6 | Rotational Motion |
9 | Tue Feb-4 | 9.1 – 9.7 | Gravity |
10 | Thu Feb-6 | 12.1, 13.1, 14.1 | Solids, Liquids, and Gases |
11 | Sun Feb-9 | 15.1 – 15.6, 16.1 – 16.6 | Temperature, Heat, and Expansion; Heat Transfer |
12 | Tue Feb-11 | 17.1 – 17.6 | Change of Phase |
13 | Thu Feb-13 | 19.1 – 19.6 | Vibrations and Waves |
14 | Sun Feb-16 | 20.1 – 20.7 | Sound |
15 | Tue Feb-18 | 21.1 – 21.7 | Musical Sounds |
16 | Thu Feb-20 | 26.1 – 26.7 | Properties of Light |
17 | Sun Feb-23 | 27.1 – 27.7 | Color |
18 | Tue Feb-25 | 28.1 – 28.7 | Reflection and Refraction |
19 | Thu Mar-01 | 29.1 – 29.7 | Light and Lenses |
Key Topics Covered
Newton's Laws of Motion
Linear Motion
Momentum and Energy
Rotational Motion and Gravity
Properties of Matter (Solids, Liquids, Gases)
Heat, Temperature, and Thermodynamics
Waves, Sound, and Musical Sounds
Properties of Light, Color, Reflection, and Refraction
Additional Info
Students are expected to participate in online discussions and complete all assignments on time.
Academic honesty is strictly enforced; plagiarism and cheating will result in disciplinary action.
Accommodations are available for students with documented disabilities.
