Course Syllabus for AP Physics C: Mechanics

Fall 2017

Instructor: Daisy Sharaf

Email: dsharaf@stuy.edu
Website: www.phunsics.com
Textbook: Halliday/Resnick/Walker: Fundamentals of Physics

Course Details and Topics

This is the first semester of a year-long Calculus-based Physics class which culminates in an AP exam. The course
will be loosely structured into units, although there is considerable overlap between the topics below.

Kinematics

Newtons Laws

Work, Energy, and Power

Systems of Particles and Linear Momentum

Circular Motion and Rotation

Oscillations and Gravitation

Exams and Quizzes

Topics and mathematical tools discussed in class will be assessed at regular intervals throughout the semester.
There will be a minimum of two exams per marking period and a weekly or twice-weekly quiz. All exams will be
announced ahead of time in class and on the website.

Expectations
This class is a challenging elective course. Students will be expected to complete problem sets, experiments, and
other assignments punctually and to participate actively in class.
Homework will be assigned in the form of weekly problem sets which build upon topics covered in class discussions.
Laboratory reports and other projects will also be assigned several times a semester. Assignments and due dates will
be posted on the instructors website.
Students are expected to be present and punctual for every class. Notes must be provided for excused absences
and latenesses. Students who miss class are responsible for making up the work. Students who are absent for an
exam must present a doctors note to be eligible for a make-up exam.

Materials
Students will be expected to attend every class session prepared with the following materials on hand:

A binder with graph paper and lined paper

A scientific or graphing calculator

Pens and mechanical pencils

Grading Policy
Grades will be assigned based on the following weighting scheme for each marking period. Students who have any
concern about their grades are encouraged to attend office hours or to make an appointment with their instructor.

1st Marking Period 2nd Marking Period 3rd Marking Period

Participation 10% 10% 10%
Homework 15% 15% 15%
Lab Reports & Projects 20% 20% 20%
Tests/Quizzes 55% 55% 40%
Final Exam 0% 0% 15%

Student Name:

Student Signature: Date:

Parent Signature: Date: