Phys 212: Physics with Calculus II

Text Book Fundamentals of Physics 7th ed. by Haliday/Resnick/ Walker

Professor: Dr. Mesgun Sebhatu, Sims 203. Office hrs: 10 - 10:50 MWF. or by appointment

E-mail : sebhatum@winthrop.edu Tel: Office=323- 4935

Brief description of the course and some advice: The PHYS 211-212 sequence covers the major branches of classical physics: PHYS 211 deals with mostly mechanics, and wave motion while PHYS 212 covers mostly thermodynamics and electromagnetism. The course emphasizes understanding of fundamental physics concepts and principles as well as the development of conceptual and analytical problem solving skills by using physics concepts, principles and mathematics in the solution of various interesting and challenging real world problems. This course should also help you review and master your algebra, trigonometry, and enable you to appreciate your calculus by putting it to work in physics. In this course, rote memorization is discouraged. Formulas and constants will be provided during test periods. Use of calculators is encouraged. In fact, it would be difficult to survive in the course without a good scientific calculator and the skill needed to use it to solve problems.

PHYS 211-212 is primarily intended for chemistry, computer science, engineering, mathematics, and physics students. However, some outstanding life science students elect to take this course instead of PHYS 201-202. PHYS 211 is the first semester of a one-year general physics (PHYS 211-212) course that utilizes calculus. MATH 201 -- a one semester calculus -- is a prerequisite for this course.

The major objective of PHYS 211-212 is to provide an opportunity for the appreciation and learning of fundamental principles and concepts of physics and for developing conceptual and analytical problem solving skills that are indispensable for any future scientist or engineer.

You learn physics by doing problems and not by memorizing formulas or facts. You will use the eGrade Plus website frequently  to practice as well to  submit  homework that will be computer graded. 

(If you were not in PHYS 211 last semester, please click on the e Grade Plus   link and register immediately)

Tentative Course Outline and Test Schedule

The course is divided into four convenient units. There will be a test on each unit. Study guides will be posted for each unit.

Unit I: Thermodynamics

Unit II: Electrostatics

Unit III: Electromagnetism I

Unit IV: Electromagnetism II

A Comprehensive Final Exam on units I. to IV. Wed.  April 26, 11:30AM -1:30PM

Computation of Final Grades : The best three test grades will contribute 10 % each (total from tests = 30%).Homework and other in and Homework and writing intensive activities ( 20%). The weekly lab grades will be averaged and contribute 25%. The comprehensive final will contribute 25%.

30% (Tests) +20%( Home Work*) + 25% (Lab) + 25%(final) = 100 %

Even though class grade distribution may affect the assignment of the letter grades, usually

above 90% is an "A", 80% - 89% is a "B", 70% - 79% is a "C", 60% - 69% is a "D", and below 60% is an "F

Makeup Tests: If a student misses one monthly test, he obtains a "0" for it and loses the opportunity to have his worst test score dropped. It will be dangerous to miss more than one test. There are no provisions for makeup tests under normal circumstances.

Class Attendance Policy: The attendance policy followed in this course is the same as that which appears in the current Winthrop University Catalog. Briefly, "If a student's absences in a course total 25% or more of the class meetings for the course, the student will receive a grade of N, F, or U, which ever is appropriate." Please read your catalog for details. The professor will determine when taking attendance is appropriate. If all the members of the class are present, there is no need to take attendance. Students who leave early or come excessively late for reasons that are not clear to the instructor may be marked absent. Class participation is a major requirement. The course will use a Personal Response System that records the participation of each student.