Physics Unit 00 Technical Writing and Math Review
Math Expectations
While this course is intended to be algebra and trigonometry based, physics by nature is explained using calculus. The problems in physics can be solved from multiple directions, therefore it will be important to show all of the logic behind your solution process. We will begin with solving problems from the algebra-based kinematics equations and then move into the trigonometry-based vectors and projectiles equations. Some videos used for this class will demonstrate where and why the calculus is used to solve physics problems.
All work involving math will use a seven step solution process. The first step involves translating the information measured or given into equalities related to the variables. Then the information is placed in a labeled diagram or picture of the situation. The third step involves choosing the base equation that uses the variables in the problem. Then the equation is rearranged algebraically to solve for the unknown variable (before substitution). The fifth step is to substitute the known information into the correct locations in the rearranged equation. The last two steps are to solve the problem for the units and to solve the math. Partial credit is given for logical attempts. Therefore, there is really no excuse to not earn at least two points for every problem given.
Because physics is a way of looking at the world in order to answer the questions of how and why things work, accurate and precise measurement and data analysis are essential. For this reason, lab work will be measured and calculated to the correct number of significant figures in order to represent the collected data's precision. The constant for the acceleration of gravity used in lab work relating to free fall, energy, and weight, has a standard value of 9.80665 m/s2 (approximately 32.174 ft/s2). In theoretical calculations and homework, it is acceptable to use the average value of 10 m/s2 with two significant digits for the given answer. For homework as well as lab work, rounding to the correct number of significant digits does not occur until after the final calculation is given. This prevents errors due to truncation. Textbook resources have chapters dedicated to algebra and significant digit review.
Resources:
Physics Target 00-02 I can collect quantitative and qualitative data with accuracy and precision.
Physics Target 00-03 I can analyze and interpret data and mathematical relationships.
Technical Writing Expectations
Science is a collective field of study, and its growth depends on the exchange of data and information, including certain fundamentals of history, mathematics, and communication. It is a common misconception that students taking a science class do not need to be good writers. In fact, biologists, physicists, and chemists must be able to effectively communicate their research, explain a hypothesis, record data, and provide conclusions. While there are a few celebrated scientific writers, the majority of scientists are rarely given credit for the breadth of their writing tasks.
The purpose of scientific writing is to offer empirical evidence that is both observable and verifiable, so it is important to write with precision. Readers expect precise descriptions of procedures and findings, free of personal biases. The presentation of data is the core of scientific reporting and therefore is essential to communicate in a straightforward manner since scientists expect to be able to replicate the experiment or process that the researcher has carried out.
While the college level lab report involves intensive research and documentation, for this course there will be minimal research required beyond what is presented in the textbook and on-line assigned information along with appropriate in-text and bibliographical citations using APA format.
Document Outlining Newman Physics Technical Writing Expectations
Rubric for Physics Target 00-01 I can write a lab reports using a style appropriate for science.
Resources:
Baylor University Sample Physics Lab Report
Department of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Physics and Astronomy Lab Reports
Penn State Writing Guidelines for Engineering and Science