Book
The first ~4 weeks of course will deal with statics where I will provide materials you need. After that, we will study the mechanics of materials using the following book which you should purchase.
James M. Gere, Mechanics of Materials.
I would recommend the sixth edition, as you can get a good condition used copy for very cheap. Whatever edition you choose, it doesn't matter as the primary content is the same.
If you like having a book for reference for the statics portion of the course, I would recommend: Russell C. Hibbeler, Engineering Mechanics, Statics. Again, this is a classic book in its fourteenth edition. Go back as far as you want in editions until you find an affordable used copy.
Laptop and phone use
Student laptops may not be open during class unless specifically requested. Please put your phone away. Studies support that laptops and phones are really distracting in class and that students who take notes by hand, do significantly better than those who take notes on the computer.
Grading Policy
Everything in the above categories will be equally weighted.
Homework
The best tip I have for doing well in the course is keeping up with the weekly assignments.
Regular homework will be graded on a "GPA" scale. 4=A, 3=B, 2=C, 1=D, 0=F. An "A" is where the homework is largely correct (not that every problem is necessarily right), on time, neat, and complete (every problem attempted). A "B" is where the HW is lacking on one of the above axis but still represents a solid effort. A "C" is where there are fundamental mistakes or significant amounts of work missing, but effort was put forth. A "D" is where there was some effort put forth, but it is largely unacceptable and incomplete. An "F" is where the assignment is missing or it was clear there was no effort put forth.
If you ever find that you have put reasonable time into the HW but aren't getting anywhere, put it away, don't keep banging your head against it, and come see me in person. In these cases, you won't be penalized for any late work.
Exams
There will be two exams around the mid-term and in the final exam block. For each exam you will spend part of the time working the exam on your own. You will then be assigned to a small group. You will then have the remaining time to complete a collaborative group exam (same questions). We will the use the remaining time to go over the answers. You will mark up and grade your own exam. Your final exam grade will be 2/3 individual and 1/3 group.
Collaboration Policy
You are encouraged to work with others, but please do your own work. Please write the names of people you collaborate with on each of the assignments. It is expected that you could explain everything you turn in.
Course Assistants:
Su Min Jang, Anil Patel, Tehya Stockman and Harrison Young will be assisting with the course this semester.
Disability Statement
If you have a documented disability (or think you may have a disability) and need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this class, complete course requirements, or benefit from the College’s programs or services, contact the Disability Services at Olin (DSO). The DSO works with students confidentially and does not disclose any disability-related information without their permission. The DSO works in partnership with faculty and all other student service offices. For further information about services for students with disabilities, please contact the DSO. Other support services are available for all students, including our course assistants and Peer Tutors. If you feel you need extra support in the course, please come talk to me directly.