Mrs. Musselman
330-486-2169 Rm L121
COURSE OBJECTIVES : One objective of this course is to provide an overview of the major conceptual developments in historic and contemporary physics. It might be thought of as a person's guide to what physicist have had to say about the universe. From the earliest periods of recorded history humanity has asked questions and sought answers relating to the physical world. As a result of these inquiries, the knowledge of the human species has advanced. Thus, a second objective is to develop within the student an understanding of the scientific processes and theories designed to provide answers to the questioning mind. A third objective is to instill a certain appreciation for the science of physics as a quest to know and understand the physical world. Yet a fourth objective is to help the student understand the science and issues surrounding the use of modern technology which has its basis in physics. The intended outcome of this course is the development of an ability to think in a critical manner using both concrete and abstract examples from physics as models.
REQUIRED TEXT : Prentice Hall: Conceptual Physics ; Paul Hewitt
REQUIRED ITEMS : 3-ring binder, loose-leaf paper, set of dividers, pencil, and scientific calculator.
GRADING : Point values will be awarded for the following:

Classroom and Homework

Lab’s and Lab Reports

Projects

Quizzes and Tests
Total
10%
20%
20%
50%
100%
Quizzes
Quizzes may be given to ensure student comprehension of material read in the textbook or to check for understanding of homework/
Tests
Tests will be administered at the end of each chapter. Each test will include a variety of questions formats including problem-solving, multiple choice, fill in the blanks, and/or short answers questions.
Labs and Projects
Labs are intended to provide hands-on examples of the material covered in class. Formal lab reports will require for select labs. Projects may be assigned occasionally in order to reinforce concepts learned in class or to give the students an opportunity to apply what they have learned in a creative manner.

Homework
Homework problems will be assigned semi-regularly. It is essential that you do the problems to the best of your ability. Copying them from others constitutes plagiarism and will do no one any good. The answers will be provided to you in most cases as a way for you to check your understanding.
Safety
Safety in the science classroom is of the utmost importance. Students will be required to read and sign a safety contract before participation in lab activities. Students not following this contract will be subject to disciplinary action and may be removed from the activity.
Late Work:
Homework that has already been reviewed in class will not be accepted for credit. Assignments that are not reviewed in class the next day they are due will be assessed a penalty if turned in late. Assignments later then one day will not be accepted.
Classroom Expectations
- respect for others (harassment, fighting)
- student interaction (class participation)
- attitude (makes an effort to succeed)
- punctuality (in seat and prepared when class starts)
- behavior (disruptive, damage to property)
- academic honesty (cheating, plagiarism)
- personal integrity (theft, dishonesty)
Letter grades will be based on the following criteria:
90% of total points = A
80% of total points = B
70% of total points = C
60% of total points = D
Below 60% is too terrible to contemplate!
Extra credit projects may be made available and are only offered if there are no missing assignments
SCHOOL POLICIES : All school policies will be rigidly enforced -- no exceptions! Students must be familiar with and abide by the guidelines in the Student Handbook pertaining to such areas as discipline, attendance, appearance, & academic honesty, etc.
EXPECTATIONS: The instructor assumes that you are mature, motivated, and willing to broaden your understanding of the physical world; that you are curious, objective, and interested in new ideas; and above all, that you are ready, willing, and able to work and study every day. This course is demanding; successful completion requires full determination and dedication from beginning to end.
Your work in this course can be likened to the flight of an airplane. If you cruise at altitude (study regularly), the amount of work required is reasonable; if you are constantly landing and taking off
(periodically cramming), it requires more fuel and the odds of a crash (failure) increase.

TENTATIVE COURSE OUTLINE : We will be following a unit plan more so than the textbook. The textbook will provide background readings. Please read assigned chapter prior to initial class activities.
The instructor assumes that you will have done so. Do so if you expect to understand classroom presentations fully.
Mechanics
Properties of Matter
Heat
Sound and Light
Electricity and Magnetism
Atomic and Nuclear Physics