Class Schedule *** Updated Nov 11th ***
TEXTBOOK - Updated for Fall 2013
Physics
Principles with Applications
Seventh Edition
Douglas C. Giancoli
This is the Primary text for the course. It is available at the university bookstore in several packages.
The book is available as:
1. Hardcover volume chapters 1-33
2. Two volumes, containing chapters 1-15 and 16-33, which correspond directly to the two semesters of General Physics I and II
3. As an ebook.
Any of the above formats will include an access code for MasteringPhysics, unless you obtain a used copy. In which case you'll need to purchase a MasteringPhysics code seperately.
Note: You might be able to get a used copy of the previous edition (6th edition) which is very similar. In fact all algebra-based college physics textbooks generally cover the same material. You will need mastering physics however.
MasteringPhysics
FIRST: Watch This Video About MasteringPhysics
All homework and pre-lecture reading quizzes will be assigned online using MasteringPhysics.
MasteringPhysics contains all of the end-of chapter problems in the textbook, and these will form the majority of the homework.
Therefore it is not essential to have the textbook in order to start work on the homework assignments, but is essential to have a MasteringPhysics account.
Access code is included with the text. Alternatively you can purchase an access code at the bookstore, or at www.masteringphysics.com
The Course Code for Fall 2013 is posted in Piazza, and was also circulated by email on Sept 3rd.
Instructions on How to Register.
Addional help if you have trouble registering.
i>Clicker
We use the i>Clicker classroom response system in every lecture to encourage you to particate by responding to questions posed by the lecturer. Your participationshows me whether the class in understanding the material, as I present it.
Participation in clicker questions is a compulsory element of the course and accounts for 10% your final grade. Your score will be determined by the number of questions you responded to during the course.
You must immediatley register your clicker online at http://www1.iclicker.com/register-an-iclicker using the code found on the back of the clicker, and your university ID number.
Don't forget your clicker, make sure it always has good batteries, and that it is registered to you!
DO NOT PURCHASE A CLICKER
You will be issued with a clicker to use for the course, which you must return at the end of the semester
Lecture Slides and Notes
This is the place to find PDF copies of the Lecture powerpoint presentations.
You will need to know the password (distributed by email) to open them. Generally each new set will be posted shortly before class, so that you can download and annotate them during the lecture if you so want.
Piazza
We will be using Piazza for online class discussion. The system is highly catered to getting you help fast and efficiently from classmates, the instructors and TA's. Rather than emailing questions to the teaching staff, I encourage you to post your questions on Piazza so everyone can participate in the conversation.
Find our class page at: https://piazza.com/uml/fall2013/95103/home
If you have any problems or feedback for the developers, email team@piazza.com.
Suggested Background Reading:
The Ten Most Beautiful Experiments
George Johnson
This little book is a great collection of articles about the history and development of science. It is the Suggested Reading to go along with the course, and provides good examples to guide your own popular science writing assignment.
These magazines are great resources for science and science writing.
Scientific American
Popular Mechanics
The New Yorker