GS104
General Science: Physics
Syllabus: Preparation and Tips
Preparation
Physics is often perceived as a difficult subject, but I have observed that almost anyone with the prerequisites and sufficient time on task can succeed.
Mental Resources: The prerequisites for this course are listed here. It is also helpful if you are familiar with common software such as web browsers (Chrome, Explorer, etc.), word processors (Docs, Word, etc.), spreadsheets (Sheets, Excel, etc.), and sceenshot software (Snipping Tool, Snip and Sketch, etc.). You will also use Audacity for one of the of the labs.
Temporal Resources: You will need to regularly commit a significant amount of time each week to complete the work necessary to master the physics topics. All told, you should expect to spend from 8 to 12 hours per week on this class.
Other Resources: In addition to paying for the required tuition and fees, you will need to procure a variety of other resources to complete this class. Please consult the following list:
Access to a computer or chromebook with decent internet speed
You will need to use a computer (and the ability to add software) for one of the labs; normally a chromebook will be sufficient.
An inexpensive scientific calculator (you will not be allowed to use your phone calculator on any proctored tests)
A hard copy of the textbook from Amazon (4th, 5th, or 6th edition) for about $10 or the Chemeketa library (free for the term)
A lab kit from the Chemeketa bookstore (about $16)
A phone with a camera and the ability to use apps for the labs
Houshold items for the labs: faucet with hot and cold water, string, scissors, measuring cup, tape, tape measure, paper, dense objects (coins, nails, washers, etc.), staircase, food coloring, secure place to tie a string (such as a ceiling hook or eye bolt), piece of wood (as heavy as possible while being measurable by the spring scale), and two rectangular prisms (see the friction lab for details)
A proctor for exams (online students not able to access a Chemeketa campus)
Tips for Success
It is difficult for me to give advice on how to succeed, given the different experiences, preferences, and aptitudes of students. But here are some ideas:
Do
Regularly check in and go to the modules on Canvas.
Start your work in advance of the due dates so you have time to seek out help if needed.
Recognize that there is never a single way to determine anything in physics. It always depends on the information that you have.
Use the discussion or office hours when you encounter problems. Ask specific questions as often as necessary.
Use office hours wisely. Here are a few things I can do:
Provide guidance on how to manage your work for the class.
Help you with specific parts of class assignments when you are stuck.
Refer you to help with personal problems such as finances or mental health.
Give advice (and/or make referals) regarding your academic or professional plans.
If you find a particular topic or chapter difficult, then spend some time reviewing your work, including the solutions to the written homework available on Canvas.
Reach out and find study or lab partners in the class.
Consider joining a student club or attending an athletic event, musical performance, or play. Persistence in college is correlated with participation in campus activities.
If all of the above doesn’t seem to be enough, then consult with me. I want every student to succeed!
Don't
Ask me what to focus on for quizzes or exams. The chapter(s)/topics covered by the quiz or exam are what you should focus on. I find it an unethical question to ask; it is essentially asking for me to give you an unfair advantage over other students.
Ask me to "look over your homework" or "look over your lab" either in-person or online. You should ask specific questions instead.
Use Chegg or similar websites. It is a violation of academic honesty with serious consequences if I catch you. And it will not help you to learn.
Use ChatGPT or similar websites. It frequently provides wrong answers and it is a violation of academic honesty if you use it without citation. And it will not help you to learn.