PS 14003 Physical Science/PS 14011 Physical Science Lab
Division of Math and Science
Arkansas Northeastern College
First Day Handout
Instructor:
Office:
Phone:
Email:
David Walls
Home
573-695-2475
jwalls@smail.anc.edu
Term: Spring 2014
Class Meeting Days: Tuesday & Thursday
Class Meeting Hours:
6:25-8:50 pm
Class Location:
Lecture Hall
Lab Meeting:
C-104 5:00-6:50pm
Website:
Office Hours:
http://cooter.k12.mo.us/HighSchool/Classes/Walls/walls/physicalscienceanc.htm
Tuesday and Thursday night
Lab Location:
C 104
I.
Welcome!
Welcome to Physical Science! This course satisfies the physical science requirement for the A.A. degree, and includes
the material necessary to conform to the Arkansas Transfer Syllabus which allows credit to transfer to all Arkansas
colleges and universities which are part of the transfer system.
II.
Course Catalog Description
This course is designed primarily for students other than those planning a math or science major, and is concerned
with concepts of matter and energy involved in the fields of astronomy, chemistry, geology and physics. The
application of scientific knowledge to daily life is emphasized and stress is placed on fundamental principles and the
scientific method.
III.
Course Overview:
Physical Science is a course meant to encourage students to notice the world around them, question why and how
things work and move, and to develop their critical thinking and problem solving skills.
IV.
Course Rationale: The natural sciences provide the opportunity for the development of independent, creative, and
logical thinking while they enhance one’s understanding of the effects of the sciences upon the individual, society
and the environment. The information gained from studies in the biological and physical sciences is based upon
acute observations, experimentation, and arriving at logical conclusions. The decision-making processes that are
used daily in coping with life in a modern society are basically those practiced in all science classes. The historical
development of this logical process is an integral part of each science class, and as such, provides the individual with
a foundation for continued personal growth.
V.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students will
 Implement a substantial vocabulary associated with the physical sciences through written and oral
communications.



Demonstrate a working knowledge of the scientific method and acute observation skills.
Demonstrate a working ability to solve word problems using logical thought and mathematical calculations.
Demonstrate a rudimentary familiarity with the basic physical laws governing our universe.
VI.
Course Prerequisites
Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in Intermediate Algebra (MA 14083) or mathematical equivalent. Corequisite:
Physical Science Lab (PS 14011) must be taken concurrently with Physical Science. This course is not open to
students enrolled in General Physics I or General Chemistry I.
VII.
Course Credits
Physical Science is 3 credit hours, and Physical Science Lab is 1 credit hour.
VIII.
Required Texts and Materials
An Introduction to Physical Science
Shipman, Wilson and Todd
Houghton Mifflin Company, Publisher
IX.
Supplementary (Optional) Texts and Materials
Calculator (suggested TI 30xa or TI-30XIIS)
X.
Basis for Final Grade
Any tools for institutional assessment will be provided by the Division of Math and Science.
Calculation of the final grade will be determined by the following:
Assessment
Homework Notebook
Laboratory reports
Exams
Notebook Quizzes
Final Exam (comprehensive)
Percent of Final Grade
10% 100 points
30% 300 points
30% 300 points
10% 100 points
20% 200 points
100% 1000points
Final grades will be assigned according to the following:
Grading Scale (%)
90-100
A
80 – 89
B
70 – 79
C
60 – 69
D
0 – 59
F
XI.
Grade Dissemination
Midterm grades will be posted on Campus Connect when the registrar requires them. Final grades will also be posted
on Campus Connect once all grades, including the final exam) are received.
You can access your quiz grades online by logging in to this myANC course and clicking on Coursework
(http://myanc.anc.edu). Exam grades will not be posted on the portal – you will be able to see graded exams one
week after exam date, and can come by my office anytime to look at your grades. Mid-tem and final grades can be
accessed using Campus Connect on myANC. Please note that scores returned mid-term are unofficial grades. If you
need help accessing myANC contact the ANC Helpdesk by email: ANChelp@smail.anc.edu
XII.
Course Policies: Grades
Late Work and Make-up Policy:
There are no make-ups for lecture exams, quizzes, homework, or Labs
exam grade will be substituted for the missed exam.
If you miss a lecture exam then your Final
Extra Credit Policy:
POTENTIAL BONUS POINTS


BONUS POINTS POSSIBLE – FOR ATTENDING MUSIC CONCERTS AT THAT BOOKSTORE IN
BLYTHEVILLE
THESE BONUS POINTS WILL BE ADDED TO TOTAL POINTS SCORE BEFORE AVERAGING YOUR FINAL
GRADE
Grades of "Incomplete":
The current College policy concerning incomplete grades will be followed in this course. Incomplete grades are
given only in situations where unexpected emergencies prevent a student from completing the course and the
remaining work can be completed the next semester. Your instructor is the final authority on whether you qualify
for an incomplete. Incomplete work must be finished by mid-term of the following semester or the “I” will
automatically be recorded as an “F” on your transcript.
Rewrite Policy:
This course does not offer a rewrite policy.
Essay Commentary Policy:
This course does not have an essay commentary policy.
Group Work Policy:
There is no group work for the lecture. Study groups are highly encouraged and recommended, but they are not
required. However, all exams, quizzes, homework and coursework are individual scores, not group scores and
should reflect only the individual student’s work and effort.
XIII.
Course Policies: Technology and Media
Email: Arkansas Northeastern College has partnered with Google to host email addresses for ANC students.
myANCmail accounts are created for each student enrolled in the current semester and is the email address your
instructor will use to communicate with you. Access your email account by going to
http://mail.google.com/a/smail.anc.edu and using your first and last names, separated by a period for your
username. Your default password is your student ID, no hyphens. If you cannot access your student email,
contact the MITS department at 762-1020 ext 1150 or ext 1207 or send an email to ANChelp@smail.anc.edu.
Student emails will include the following information in the subject header: lastname.PhySci.A to indicate the
individual student and the course enrolled.
E-mail is checked on a regular basis throughout the school day and will be checked prior to 8:00 p.m. through the
school week. Response time will be short if the email is sent M-F. Response time on the weekends will fluctuate
throughout the day, but usually email will be checked before 8:00 pm each day.
Internet: This course has a web component on myANC and a web site
http://cooter.k12.mo.us/MrWalls/physical%20science%20anc.htm
Lecture handouts, Labs, problem sets, and other supplemental material is on the MyANC Portal homepage of
the Physical Science course
Laptop Usage:
If a student so chooses to use a laptop, it is acceptable for note taking.
Classroom Devices:
Calculators are required for lecture. Digital recorders are acceptable for taping the lecture materials.
CELL PHONES, BEEPERS, PAGERS, OR ANY OTHER ELECTRONIC OR COMMUNICATIONS DEVICE MUST BE TURNED
OFF, PLACED ON SILENT OR VIBRATE AND PUT AWAY DURING CLASS. IF A PHONE, ETC., GOES OFF OR IS VISIBLE
DURING CLASS YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE IMMEDIATELY!!! If you need your phone turned on because of an
emergency situation, please talk to me before class or the above policy will apply.
Classroom Response Clickers:
Classroom response clickers may be used for review and testing.
Course Blog or Wiki:
This course does not offer a course blog or wiki.
Computer Labs: In addition to general-purpose classrooms, a number of computer laboratories are provided for
instructional and student use. These networked laboratories are state-of-the-art and fully equipped with
computers, printers, Internet connections and the latest software. The labs are open to students enrolled in one
or more credit hours at the College.
Technology Support: A lab assistant is generally present in the computer lab in B202 for assistance in using the
College computers. These assistants cannot help you with course assignments; specific questions regarding the
technology requirements for each course should be directed to the instructor of the course. Problems with
myANC or College email accounts should be addressed by email to ANCHelp@smail.anc.edu.
XIV.
Course Policies: Student Expectations
Disability Access: Arkansas Northeastern College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all
persons with disabilities. This First Day Handout is available in alternate formats upon request. Students with
disabilities who need accommodations in this course must contact the instructor at the beginning of the semester
to discuss needed accommodations. No accommodations will be provided until the student has met with the
instructor to request accommodations. Students who need accommodations must be registered with Johnny
Moore in Statehouse Hall, 762-3180.
Attendance Policy:
In order to learn, you must be present; you must be prompt! There are no secrets or shortcuts to success in
Physical Science. The chapters should be read prior to the class discussion and ALL PROBLEMS AND EXERCISES FOR
EACH CHAPTER ARE ASSIGNED. It is recommended that a student with 5 or more absences at midterm (3 during
summer classes) withdraw from the class. Rules of the college prohibit instructors from dropping students from
the class role for any reason. The student must accept the responsibility for withdrawing from any course to avoid
an unwanted grade (last day to drop is TBA). Attendance will be taken every class period. As a courtesy, please let
your instructor know if you have decided to drop the course. Unless you notify your instructor you will continue to
receive emails concerning the course.
Professionalism Policy:
Per classroom etiquette: mobile phones, iPods, etc. must be silenced during all classroom and lab lectures. Those
not heeding this rule will be asked to leave the classroom immediately so as to not disrupt the learning
environment. Please arrive on time for all class meetings. If you know ahead of time that you will be late, please
contact the instructor ahead of time and provide that information. If a student is late for a lecture, I have no
problem with entering the class as long as it is done in a professional manner (no noise, no talking, etc).
NO TEXTING IN CLASS.
Academic Integrity Policy:
Academic dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. If you are uncertain as to what constitutes academic
dishonesty, please consult ANC’s Student Handbook (http://anc.edu/docs/Academic_Integrity_Policy.pdf) for
further details. Students are expected to do their own work. Plagiarism, using the words of others without express
permission or proper citation, will not be tolerated. Any cheating (giving or receiving) or other dishonest activity
will, at a minimum, result in a zero on that test or assignment and may be referred, at the discretion of the
instructor, to the Department Chair and/or Vice President of Instruction for further action.
In Physical Science, the Division of Arts & Sciences Academic Dishonesty Policy will be enforced. Each student will
be required to sign a contract that they understand and will adhere to the policy. The policy is found below and on
the portal. Any student caught cheating on any work will automatically receive a failing grade for the lecture and
lab. Also, the name (or names) of the guilty party will be turned in to the Division Chair for record.
Studying together is acceptable and encouraged because such can be helpful in learning; but each class member is
expected to prepare class assignments and test alone based on his/her knowledge and individual effort.
ARKANSAS NORTHEASTERN COLLEGE
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY
Integrity: firm adherence to a code
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/integrity
Arkansas Northeastern College promotes academic integrity as the only fair and ethical way to achieve your
educational goals. Cheating, plagiarism, collusion, giving or receiving test questions, use of annotated texts or
teacher’s editions are all violations of this code. Ultimately, you are held responsible for all college work that you
do - inside and outside of class. To help you keep to the level of integrity ANC requires, the College provides the
following definitions:
Cheating: to practice fraud or trickery: to violate rules dishonestly
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cheat
Examples: giving or receiving test questions/answers; copying computer files from another student; submitting
another’s work as your own; using any method to retrieve information in violation of the instructor’s guidelines
Plagiarism: to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own: use (another's
production) without crediting the source : to commit literary theft : present as new
and original an idea or product derived from an existing source
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plagiarize
Examples: using the exact wording of another without the proper use of quotation marks and citations;
paraphrasing another’s ideas without giving credit to the producers or writers of the source
Collusion: secret agreement or cooperation especially for an illegal or deceitful purpose
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/collusion
Examples: assisting another in an act of academic dishonesty; providing/accepting papers, projects, computer files
or test answers to/from another student; allowing another student to copy one’s work, including, but not limited
to, essays, term papers, homework assignments, math problems, lab exercises and science lab manuals; working
together on an assignment or take-home exam when instructed not to do so; removing tests or answer sheets
from a test site; copying test questions, in any form, from the computer screen in an Internet course; allowing
another student to view test/quiz items in an Internet course, whether purposefully or negligently (not logging out
of myANC in a public area)
Academic dishonesty is a serious offense and will not be tolerated at ANC. The following consequences are in
effect for all ANC courses:
1st Offense: The instructor will determine the consequences of the academic dishonesty based on his/her policy in
the First Day Handout for that course. The student’s name and documentation of the offense will be submitted to
the office of the Dean/Chair of that Division.
2nd Offense: The student will be required to meet with the Division Dean/Chair and/or Vice President of
Instruction. At that time, the Dean/Chair and/or VP of Instruction will decide the appropriate consequences of the
academic dishonesty, possibly including a failing grade in the course. If the first and second offenses occurred in
internet courses, then that student will be banned from enrolling in future internet courses at ANC. Second offense
does not have to occur in the same class or same division as the first offense; this policy is in effect for all ANC
courses.
Instructors have additional policies in effect for their particular courses, and these are clearly stated in the First
Day Handout. Consult with your instructor if you have any doubt as to what constitutes violations of academic
integrity in his/her particular course.
Learning Assistance Center: The Learning Assistance Center (LAC) is a free resource for ANC students. The LAC
provides drop-in assistance, computer tutorials and audio/visual aids to students who need help in academic
areas. Learning labs offer individualized instruction in the areas of mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary
development and college study methods. Tutorial services are available on an individual basis for those having
difficulty with instructional materials. The LAC also maintains a shelf of free materials addressing specific
problems, such as procedures for writing essays and term papers, punctuation reviews, and other useful materials.
For more information, visit the LAC website at http://www.anc.edu/LAC or stop by room L104 in the Adams/Vines
Library Complex.
Other Student Support Services: Many departments are ready to assist you reach your educational goals. Be sure
to check with your advisor; the Learning Assistance Center, Room L104; Student Support Services, Room S145; and
Student Success, Room L101 to find the right type of support for you.
XV.
Important Dates to Remember
Last Day to Add/Drop Classes:
Mid – Term Week:
Withdrawal Deadline:
Final Exam Week:
TBA
TBA
TBA
TBA
For all important dates, please refer to the tentative schedule.
XVI.
Unit and Instructional Objectives with Schedule
Unit 1: Measurement and Motion
Rationale: The basic vocabulary of science is mathematics. Accurate measurements, calculations and
observations are intrinsic to the continuation of commerce, healthcare and innovation.
The student will be able to:
CHAPTER 1: MEASUREMENT
1.
Provide examples of measurement made in daily life and discuss their importance to man.
2.
List the five senses with which we examine our environment and identify the one from which most of our
information comes.
3.
List the four fundamental properties of nature which we seek to measure.
4.
Discuss standard units for each of the seven fundamental properties on the following measuring systems:
metric (SI) and British
5.
Distinguish between fundamental units and derived units and be able to demonstrate how a unit may be
derived.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Define and write the formula for density and complete appropriate calculations.
Be able to write conversion factors for each of the following properties: length, mass and volume.
Define and use the following terms: degree, circumference, radius, diameter, pi
Distinguish between the terms accuracy and precision.
Be able to express numbers in powers of ten notation (scientific notation).
Be able to define, write the equation for and calculate percentage error.
Be able to change numbers from standard notation to powers of ten notation and vice versa.
CHAPTER 2: MOTION
1.
Explain how to define the speed of an object in terms of the distance traveled and the time, and write the
equation for the relationship.
2.
Differentiate between scalars and vectors and give examples.
3.
Differentiate between distance and displacement.
4.
Differentiate between speed and velocity
5.
Differentiate between average velocity and instantaneous velocity and give an example of each.
6.
Explain the meaning of each term in the formula v = d / t
7.
Define acceleration, and give an example by referring to an automobile.
8.
Give the units of acceleration in three different systems of units of measurement.
9.
State Galileo’s observation concerning freely falling objects.
10. Compute the speed of an object that has fallen for 1 s, 2 s, and 3 s, etc.
11. Explain the meaning of each term in the formula a = v2 / r
12. Give the mks units of each term in a = v2 / r
13. Explain how something can be traveling at constant speed and still be accelerating.
14. Given a word problem concerning speed and/or acceleration, make appropriate calculations for unknown
variables.
Unit Two: Force and Motion, Work and Energy, and Temperature and Heat
Rationale: Our world is not static. In order to control and predict motion, it is necessary to be aware of the basic
principles of energy, work and motion.
The student will be able to:
CHAPTER 3: FORCE AND MOTION
1.
State Newton’s three laws of motion and give examples of each.
2.
Define the following terms: force, inertia and mass.
3.
Give the units of force ing cgs, mks, and the British system of units.
4.
Define the term weight and give its units in three different systems of measurement.
5.
Explain the meaning of each of the terms in the equation F = Gm1m2 / r2
6.
Differentiate between ‘G’ and ‘g’.
7.
Define and write the equation for momentum.
8.
Differentiate between angular momentum and linear momentum.
9.
State the law of angular and linear momentum.
10. Given a word problem concerning force, acceleration, and/or momentum, make appropriate calculations for
unknown variables.
CHAPTER 4: WORK AND ENERGY
1.
Define work and give its units in cgs, mks and British system of units.
2.
Define power and give its units in mks and British units.
3.
Define the terms: energy, kinetic energy and potential energy. Give their units in cgs, mks and British units.
4.
State the law of conservation of energy.
5.
List the main sources of energy in the United States.
6.
List at least five (5) forms of energy.
7.
Differentiate between sources of energy and forms of energy.
8.
State why it is important to conserve energy.
9.
Write the equations for potential energy and kinetic energy.
10.
11.
12.
Review the equations concerning energy (yellow highlighted boxes 4.1 – 4.5) and be able to explain their
meanings.
Energy is always found either as kinetic energy or kinetic energy? Explain.
Given a word problem concerning kinetic energy, potential energy, work and power, make appropriate
calculations for unknown variables.
CHAPTER 5: TEMPERATURE AND HEAT
1.
Define and contrast steam point, ice point, boiling point and freezing point.
2.
Define and contrast temperature and heat.
3.
List the three temperature scales used.
4.
Write the equation for each of the temperature scales and be able to apply them to make temperature
conversions between all scales.
5.
Give the units in mks and fps systems that apply to heat.
6.
Define the terms joule and calorie.
7.
Define and contrast specific heat and heat capacity.
8.
Draw a heating curve for a substance given all pertinent information.
9.
Define: a) latent heat of fusion, and b) latent heat of vaporization
10. Define thermodynamics and state the three laws of thermodynamics.
11. List and describe the three states (phases) of matter.
12. List three assumptions of the kinetic theory (kinetic molecular theory).
13. Rearrange and utilize the Combined Gas Law given pertinent information.
14. List and describe the three ways in which heat can be transferred from one place to another.
13.
Given a word problem concerning heating curves or gases, make appropriate calculations for unknown
variables.
Unit Three: Electricity and Magnetism
Rationale: Our lifestyle relies on electricity, and a basic knowledge of electrical principles is important with
respect to safety, as well as a basis for continuing educational opportunities.
The student will be able to:
Chapter 8:
1.
Define positive and negative charge.
2.
Differentiate between charge and current.
3.
Define and use Coloumb’s Law given pertinent information.
4.
Define and contrast Conductors and Insulators and simple circuits.
5.
Define the ampere.
6.
Discuss potential difference and voltage.
7.
Define and use Ohm’s Law given pertinent information.
8.
Discuss magnets and draw a representation of magnetic fields.
9.
Discuss magnetic force on a current.
10. Discuss the relationship between electric motors and electromagnetic induction.
11. Given a word problem concerning electricity, make appropriate calculations for unknown variables.
Unit Four: Chemistry
Rationale: A basic understanding of atomic structure is necessary in a well rounded education.
The student will be able to:
CHAPTER 11: CHEMISTRY
1.
Define chemistry, matter and mass
2.
Distinguish among the three classes of matter: elements, compounds and mixtures
3.
Explain the meanings of the letters, numbers and parentheses in the chemical formula of a compound
4.
Compare the properties of metals and nonmetals
5.
List some of the characteristic properties of the halogens, the alkali metals and the inert gases
6.
Distinguish between the groups and periods of the periodic table
7.
State what is meant by atomic shells and subshells
8.
9.
Distinguish between metal and nonmetal atoms in the terms of their electron structures
Name simple chemical compounds from their formulas, and write chemical formula from compound name
CHAPTER 12: CHEMICAL BONDING
1.
Compare ionic and covalent bonds
2.
State the law of conservation of mass and the law of definite proportions
3.
Determine the percent my mass of any component in a chemical compound
4.
Discuss the basics of Dalton’s atomic theory
5.
Describe the bonding in an ionic compound, and predict if a compound will be ionic or molecular
6.
Describe the bonding in a molecular compound, and predict if a compound will be ionic or molecular
7.
Discuss what is meant by polarity, and a polar bond
CHAPTER 13: CHEMICAL REACTIONS
1.
Distinguish between reactants and products in a chemical reaction
2.
Balance simple chemical reactions
3.
Identify combination reactions and decomposition reactions
4.
Discuss energy and energy’s role in the rate of a reaction
5.
Recognize and balance single- and double-replacement reactions
6.
Discuss and define the mole concept and how it relates to balanced chemical equations.
Laboratory:
Rationale: The ability to work safely and efficiently in a laboratory setting is essential. The laboratory, taken
concurrently with the lecture, illustrates and reinforces the material and principles in Physical Science. The skills
developed in a controlled laboratory setting, including documentation, computer skills, and accurate measurements, will
translate into a myriad of settings and prepare the student for further educational and career opportunities.
Objectives: The student will be able to:
Experiment 1: Graphing, Lab Safety and Correct Documentation Techniques
1. Locate and utilize all safety equipment in the laboratory.
2. Write a prelab after reading an experimental procedure.
3. Record data in a laboratory notebook in the correct manner, and plan data sheets and post labs.
Learn to use Graphical analysis
Experiment 2: Measurements
1. Recognize and correctly use a triple beam balance, measuring and recording masses to the 0.01 g.
2. Correctly complete volume readings from graduated cylinders.
3. Utilize a graduated cylinder correctly.
4. Use EXCEL spreadsheet or Graphical analysis to record, manipulate and graph data.
5. Begin mastering the skill of producing a ‘work-product’ level lab report.
Experiment 3: Simple Pendulum
1. Set up a simple pendulum.
2. Experimentally determine the period of a pendulum.
3. From the appropriate equation, determine the ‘true’ period of a pendulum.
4. Recognize when to use percent difference and percent error.
5. Use EXCEL spreadsheet or Geraphical analysisto manipulate and graph data.
6. Produce a ‘work-product’ level lab report.
Experiment 4: Motion
1. Set up an air track.
2. Experimentally, determine the velocity of a cart on the air track.
3. Calculate acceleration from experimental data.
4. Use EXCE or Graphical Analysis spreadsheet to manipulate and graph data.
5. Produce a ‘work-product’ level lab report.
Experiment 5: Newton’s Second Law
1. Set up an air track.
2. Experimentally, by changing loads, investigate the validity of Newton’s Second Law.
3. Use EXCEL spreadsheet or Graphical analysis to manipulate and graph data.
4. Produce a ‘work-product’ level lab report.
Experiment 6: Lab Competition
1. Working with a group, determine the mass, volume and density of particular objects.
2. Working with a group, work given word problems.
Experiment 7: Watts in your Home
1. Keep a log of energy use of appliances in their home and compare energy usage to electric bill.
Experiment 8: Energy of Fuels
1. Determine energy per grams for four substances.
Experiment 9: Specific Heat
1. Experimentally determine the specific heat of an unknown metal using the Method of Mixtures.
Experiment 10: Latent Heat of Fusion
1. Experimentally determine the latent heat of fusion of water.
Experiment 11: Latent Heat of Vaporization
1. Experimentally determine the latent heat of vaporization of water.
Experiment 12: Juice Lab
1. Construct a simple circuit using various fruits/vegetables serving as battery.
2. Determine the best combination of electrodes for maximum voltage.
Experiment 13: Chemistry Lab
1. Recognize isotopes and determine relative numbers of subatomic particles in different isotopes.
2. Produce ‘slime’ and relate it to polymers.
XVII.
Disclaimer: The First Day Handout was prepared under certain limited assumptions. Therefore, if the students in
the class seem to “fit” the design for the course and if events occur as planned, the schedule, assignments, and assessments
will be followed. The instructor has the option, however, to eliminate or add assignments and/or assessments if he/she
feels it is in the best interest of the students.