phy1sca principles of physics a
PRINCIPLES OF PHYSICS A
PHY1SCA
2015
Credit points: 15
Subject outline
On completion of this unit, students will be able to solve problems in classical physics (mechanics, thermodynamics and waves) which provide the basis for further study in physics, engineering or another science. They will be able to use the essential apparatus in a physics laboratory to take and analyse measurements, and understand the vocabulary and concepts of classical physics. The topics covered include linear and rotational kinematics and dynamics, thermodynamics, and simple harmonic motion. Students will conduct nine experimental investigations related to these topics. This subject and the second semester subject PHY1SCB together constitute a mainstream course in Physics at the first-year level. Knowledge and competence in the material presented in VCE physics and maths is assumed.
SchoolSchool of Molecular Sciences/LIMS
Credit points15
Subject Co-ordinatorDavid Hoxley
Available to Study Abroad StudentsYes
Subject year levelYear Level 1 - UG
Exchange StudentsYes
Subject particulars
Subject rules
PrerequisitesN/A
Co-requisitesN/A
Incompatible subjects PHY11ENG, PHY11PAA, PHY12AGR, PHY12PAB, PHY10SCI, PHY1LSA
Equivalent subjects PHY10SCI
Special conditionsN/A
Learning resources
Readings
| Resource Type | Title | Resource Requirement | Author and Year | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Readings | Physics for scientists and engineers: a strategic approach, with modern physics | Prescribed | Knight, RD 2008 | 3RD ED, PEARSON ADDISON WESLEY, SAN FRANCISCO. |
| Readings | FSTE First Year Survival Guide (second edition) | Recommended | Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering | LA TROBE UNIVERSITY 2012 |
Graduate capabilities & intended learning outcomes
01. Diagrammatically represent, analyse and/or solve conceptual and mathematical problems related to mechanics, thermodynamics and waves.
- Activities:
- Students are assessed via 12 online quizzes and problem-solving classes. In the online quizzes, students answer conceptual and mathematical multiple choice questions. In problem classes, students solve short answer problems. Students sit a mid-semester multiple choice quiz, and a final end of semester exam comprising short answer questions.
02. Use accurate terminology and appropriate SI units to describe physical phenomena related to mechanics, thermodynamics and waves.
- Activities:
- Students are required to use appropriate terminology and SI units in all assessment elements (namely problem classes, online quizzes, laboratory reports and exams).
03. Perform experiments related to mechanics, thermodynamics and waves using standard physics laboratory techniques, equipment and software and assess the data to check for inappropriate, irrelevant or spurious results.
- Activities:
- Students complete nine laboratory experiments and submit a report that indicates their ability to detail and assess experimental data. Students follow written and verbal laboratory instructions to conduct the experiments accurately and safely.
04. Explain and interpret laboratory results in the context of mechanics, thermodynamics and waves.
- Activities:
- Students submit nine laboratory reports detailing their interpretation of the results. The laboratory report mark contains a writing component.
05. Collaborate in pairs to complete laboratory experiments and submit reports.
- Activities:
- The teamwork component of the laboratory report mark assesses the participation of each student in completing the experiment. Students are expected to submit their own work (as instructed in the laboratory sessions). If they fail to do so, they are counselled after the first occasion by the demonstrator. For subsequent plagiarism, no marks are awarded and they are interviewed by the subject coordinator.
Subject options
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Melbourne, 2015, Semester 1, Day
Overview
Online enrolmentYes
Maximum enrolment sizeN/A
Enrolment information
Subject Instance Co-ordinatorDavid Hoxley
Class requirements
Problem Based LearningWeek: 10 - 22
One 2.0 hours problem based learning per week on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via face-to-face.
LectureWeek: 10 - 22
Three 1.0 hours lecture per week on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via face-to-face.
Laboratory ClassWeek: 11 - 22
Nine 3.0 hours laboratory class per study period on weekdays during the day from week 11 to week 22 and delivered via face-to-face.
Assessments
| Assessment element | Comments | % | ILO* |
|---|---|---|---|
| laboratory reports/exercises | 20 | 02, 03, 04, 05 | |
| on-line quizzes | 10 | 01, 02 | |
| one 1-hour mid semester examination | 5 | 01, 02 | |
| one 3-hour examination | 55 | 01, 02 | |
| problem sets | 10 | 01, 02 |