PHYS 125 - Principles of Physics I

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of Physics by applying these core ideas to analyze physical processes.  In this course these fundamental principles include: Kinematics and Forces, i.e., Newton’s Laws, Conservation of Energy, Conservation of Momentum, Thermodynamics, Fluids and Fluid dynamics, Oscillations and Waves
2. Students will apply quantitative reasoning and critical thinking to solve complex problems, both theoretical and experimental in nature. Students will apply the physical principles introduced to solve basic problems, often very similar to those demonstrated in class and in lecture, learning the techniques and systematic approaches forming the required groundwork for solving novel and complex problems
3. Students will develop strategies for learning technical subjects, e.g.,  practice active reading/listening skills.  The Laboratory component of the course has the following student learning outcomes;
4. Students taking the 125 Lab component shall develop the ability to:
5. Devise or create a lab experiment designed to test a physical principal or to test a specific hypothesis.
6. Maintain a professional quality laboratory notebook or other record of their experimental work including proper format, ability to record data and observations appropriately etc.
7. Use computer software to plot and analyze their data.   The current implementation is to have students learn to use Microsoft Excel to plot and analyze their data.
8. Properly use common experimental tools of experimental Physics
9. Formulate a reasonable and meaningful conclusion or summary based on the experimental evidence they have collected.  A “Claim-Evidence-Reasoning” based summary strategy will be emphasized.

1. Demonstrate knowledge of scientific theories, concepts, and data about the physical sciences;
2. demonstrate an understanding of scientific practices, including the scientific method; and
3. describe the potential limits of scientific endeavors, including the accepted standards and ethics associated with scientific inquiry.

1. Apply their knowledge of scientific theories, concepts, and data about the physical and sciences through laboratory activities;
2. apply their understanding of scientific practices, including the scientific method in a laboratory setting; and
3. demonstrate accepted standards and ethics associated with scientific inquiry, while completing laboratory activities.