42155PHYSICS 115 – Winter 2013
College Physics II
Instructor: Michelle Schmode
Lectures: MTuWTh 1:30 - 2:20, R2063
Lab:
F 1:30 - 3:20, D225
Office: R2012 (Water & Environmental Center)
Hours: Daily 12:30 - 1:20 p.m. or by appt.
Office Phone: 524-5237
Email: michelle.schmode@wwcc.edu
Text: Required - College Physics by OpenStax
Description: This is part two of an algebra-based physics sequence intended for non-physical science
majors. Topics include mechanical properties of matter, behavior of fluids, harmonic motion and waves,
basic thermodynamics, and an introduction to electricity. Lab work required. Prerequisite: PHYS& 114.
Formerly PHYS 122, College Physics II.
Intended learning outcomes: Student will be expected to demonstrate the following knowledge and
abilities by the end of the term:
 Understanding of the behaviors of solids, liquids and gases under the influence of changes in
pressure, temperature and mechanical forces.
 Conceptual understanding of various wave phenomena (e.g. sound, water, light, etc.).
 Understanding of electricity in terms of charge, field, and energy.
 Ability to solve numerical problems (algebra and trigonometry based) related to the above
mentioned concepts.
Other materials needed: Scientific calculator and engineering graph paper
Disability Identification and Accommodations: If you have a disability for which you are or may be
requesting an accommodation, you are encouraged to contact Claudia Angus, Ph.D., Coordinator of
Disability Support Services at 527-4262 or claudia.angus@wwcc.edu, as early as possible in the quarter.
Homework: Assignments are due as noted on the syllabus on the back of this sheet. Problems are worth
1 point each. If homework is turned in 1 day late I will grade it, but a maximum of only 50% credit will
be given. Problems turned in more than 1 day late will receive no credit. Each assignment will be
clearly labelled across the top of the page with the student’s name, PHYS&115, assignment problems,
and date. All pages will be stapled together, in order. Students must show work to earn full credit.
Assignments are due at the beginning of the class period.
Tests: 3 Total - One at the end of every two or three chapters consisting of approximately 25% multiplechoice question, 25% short answer questions and 50% problems.
Final Exam: A comprehensive final will be given. The question type breakdown will be similar to the
chapter tests. It will be approximately 1½ times the length of a chapter test.
Labs: Write-ups will be due on Wednesdays. Late labs will be accepted, with a substantial grade
reduction, until the next lab session (Fridays).
Attendance: Daily attendance will not be taken; however, with homework due almost everyday it will
hurt your grade not to show up for class.
Cell Phones: KEEP THEM HIDDEN. IF I CAN SEE IT, I WILL ASSUME YOU ARE USING IT.
If your cell phone rings, or if you are seen text messaging, during class you will not receive any
homework points for that day. If it happens a second time during the quarter the penalty will be doubled,
for a 3rd time, doubled again, etc. Cell phone calculators may NOT be used for tests and quizzes.
Student Code of Conduct: Policies regarding behavior shall adhere to the current edition of the WWCC Student
Handbook, which can be viewed at:
http://www.wwcc.edu/CMS/fileadmin/PDF/Student_Policies/Handbook_12-13_Final.pdf.
This includes, but is not limited to, code of conduct, cheating, and plagiarism. Establish and maintain good
professional habits. Please note:
(1) There shall be no use of tobacco products in the classroom.
(2) Students will not cheat or plagiarize on any coursework or exams. Students caught cheating or
plagiarizing will, at a minimum, receive a zero on the assignment or exam, and will possibly receive a
failing grade in the course, and/or be immediately dropped from the course, and/or be recommended for
dismissal or suspension from the college
Grading: Approximate breakdown of point distribution:
Chapter tests 40%
Final exam 20%
Labs 20%
Homework 20%
The student’s course grade is calculated as a weighted average based on the percentages above. Students are
encouraged to periodically calculate their course grade in CANVAS. Grades are based on the following scale:
Percentage
93-100%
90-92.9%
87-89.9%
83-86.9%
80-82.9%
77-79.9%
73-76.9%
70-72.9%
65-69.9%
60-64.9%
<60%
Final Grade
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
F