Welcome to my class!

Problem Solving PHY 2166 (U02):  A complementary Course to PHY 2054      

Textbook:      College Physics by Young & Geller, 8th edition (Chapter 1-16)

Time & Place:         9:30 AM - 10:20 AM      Thursday   @ CP101

Instructor:     Dr. Jiandi Zhang (Office: CP 223, Phone: 348-3956, e-mail: zhangj@fiu.edu);  

Web Site:      http://www.fiu.edu/~zhangj

Office Hours:  9:00PM - 5:00PM, Wednesday
* You are encouraged to make an appointment with me if you are having problems with the course, or have any questions about physics in general!

Pre Requirement: Basic Mathematics (algebra, trigonometry, vector algebra); These are very important for your success for the course. Take PHY 2054 simultaneously

Class Attendance:    Attending class is essential for any materials, oral announcements, and also will be considered for the final grading. You are responsible for  all information and instructions discussed in class whether or not you were present.  Be on time!

Homework:     No particular home work will be assigned except the homework from your PHY 2054 class

Grading:         Your grade will be based on:

                Attendance 40%
                Two tests --- 60%

Date for the Tests:
       First  Test:        
       Second Test:      
 

• Students missing any test or exam will not be given a second chance, exception extreme cases involving serious medical or family problems, etc. Written documentation from doctors, etc. is required in those cases.
  
• Anyone caught cheating on an exam will fail the course and be referred to the authorities.
  
• You must turn off your cellular phone in the class!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hints for Best Performance:

• Prepare for class; read material in the text before the lecture. Then read the material after class discussion of the topics.
• Use your resources, including the information and hints on Website: http://www.masteringphysics.com
• Don't miss class; get notes from someone if you have unavoidable absence.
• Review and practice math as necessary.
• Participate in class.
• Practice, practice, practice; Try to answer the conceptual questions and problems in each chapter.
• Let me know how you're doing!

Specifically Related to Problem Solving and Homework:

• Make sure you understand what the problem is asking before you begin plugging numbers into equations.
• Try the worked examples in the book and from your notes ---- without peeking!
• Try problems that have solutions in the back of the book first.
• Draw a picture whenever possible.
• Pay attention to units.
• Don't expect to always work straight through a problem. Wrong turns and dead ends are often instructive.
• Check results to make sure they are reasonable.
• Get help----but only after trying the problem yourself.

And Finally:

Keep in mind that learning physics involves both understanding concepts and solving problems. The two processes are inseparable and support each other. You will probably find that you understand a concept somewhat, then work your way through a related problem, which illuminates the concept even more, making the next problem easier, etc. It will all come together and you will understand the concepts and can whiz through the problems!

ENJOY PHYSICS!