Faculty of Science

School of Physics

PHYS1001: Physics 1 (Regular)

Semester 1 , 2016 | 6 Credit Points | Coordinator:

1 Introduction
PHYS 1001 is the first part of a broad 3-semester overview of physics at Junior and Intermediate levels for students who have successfully
studied physics at high school. Together with either PHYS 1003 or PHYS 1004 and 12 credit points of Junior Mathematics, PHYS 1001 provides
the necessary background knowledge and practice of scientific skills for students who wish to enrol in intermediate units of study in physics, in the
environmental, medical and life sciences, or in engineering.

1.1 Assumed Knowledge and Prohibitions

It is assumed that students have completed the equivalent of 2 unit HSC Physics and gained 65 marks or better. Recommended concurrent units
of study are MATH1001/1901 and MATH1002/1902. PHYS1001 may not be counted with PHYS1002 or PHYS1901.

2 Course Aims, Learning Objectives and Graduate

Attributes

2.1 Course Aims

The focus of this unit is to introduce you to the key concepts in three foundation areas of physics: mechanics, thermal physics and wave motion.
You will be familiar with the basic concepts of mechanics and waves from school but thermal physics will be new to you. The unit is designed to
help you develop appropriate methods of study that will allow you to become an independent learner, capable of organising new information into a
coherent conceptual framework and applying it in both familiar and unfamiliar situations. In addition, you are introduced to basic experimental
skills in the measurement of physical quantities and analysis of experimental data.

2.2 Learning Outcomes

After successfully completing this unit, you should be able to demonstrate:

1. an understanding of the key concepts in three foundation areas of physics - mechanics, thermal physics and wave motion;
2. the ability to apply these concepts to develop models, and to solve qualitative and quantitative problems in scientific and engineering contexts,
using appropriate mathematical and computing techniques as necessary;
3. an understanding of the nature of scientific measurement, and skills in the measurement of physical quantities and the handling of data;
4. the ability to find and analyse information and judge its reliability and significance;
5. the ability to communicate scientific information appropriately, both orally and through written work;
6. the ability to engage in team and group work for scientific investigations and for the process of learning;
7. a sense of responsibility, ethical behaviour and independence as a learner and as a scientist.

2.3 Graduate Attributes

Graduate Attributes are generic attributes that encompass not only technical knowledge but additional qualities that will equip
students to be strong contributing members of professional and social communities in their future careers. The overarching
graduate attributes identified by the University relate to a graduate’s attitude or stance towards knowledge, towards the world,
and towards themselves. These are understood as a combination of five overlapping skills or abilities, the foundations of which
are developed as part of specific disciplinary study. For further details please refer to the Science faculty website at:
itl.usyd.edu.au/graduateAttributes/facultyGA.cfm?faculty=Science

Graduate Attributes Learning Outcomes

A Research and Inquiry

A1. Apply scientific knowledge and critical thinking to identify, define and analyse problems, create
2, 3, 4
solutions, evaluate opinions, innovate and improve current practices.
A2. Gather, evaluate and deploy information relevant to a scientific problem. 1, 2, 3, 4
A3. Design and conduct investigations, or the equivalent, and analyse and interpret the resulting
2, 3, 4
data.
A4. Critically examine the truth and validity in scientific argument and discourse, and evaluate the
2, 3, 4
relative importance of ideas.

B Information Literacy

B1. Use a range of searching tools (such as catalogues and databases) effectively and efficiently to 4
find information.
B2. Access a range of information sources in the science disciplines, for example books, reports, 4
research articles, patents and company standards.
B3. Critically evaluate the reliability and relevance of information in a scientific context. 1, 2, 3, 4
B5. Use information technology to gather, process, and disseminate scientific information. 4, 5

C Communication

C1. Explain and present ideas to different groups of people in plain English. 5, 6
C2. Write and speak effectively in a range of contexts and for a variety of different audiences and
5, 6
purposes.
C4. Present and interpret data or other scientific information using graphs, tables, figures and
3, 4, 5
symbols.
C5. Work as a member of a team, and take individual responsibility within the group for developing
5, 6
and achieving group goals.
C6. Take a leadership role in successfully influencing the activities of a group towards a common
6, 7
goal.

D Ethical, Social and Professional Understanding

D1. Demonstrate an understanding of the significance and scope of ethical principles, both as a
professional scientist and in the broader social context, and a commitment to apply these 7
principles when making decisions.
D2. Appreciate the importance of sustainability and the impact of science within the broader 7
economic, environmental and socio-cultural context.

E Personal and Intellectual Autonomy

E1. Evaluate personal performance and development, recognise gaps in knowledge and acquire new
3, 4, 7
knowledge independently.
E2. Demonstrate flexibility in adapting to new situations and dealing with uncertainty. 3, 7
E3. Reflect on personal experiences, and consider their effect on personal actions and professional 7
practice.
E4. Set achievable and realistic goals and monitor and evaluate progress towards these goals. 7
E5. Demonstrate openness and curiosity when applying scientific understanding in a wider context. 7

For further details on course learning outcomes see the Specific Objectives listed in the Lecture Module Outlines available on
the unit eLearning site.

3 Study Commitment

Students enrolled in any 6 credit point Junior unit of study offered by the Faculty of Science should consider spending up to 12
hours per week on that unit during the 13 teaching weeks of the semester and the study vacation. In PHYS 1001 this involves:
Lectures
You will have 37 one-hour lectures divided into 3 lecture modules:
Mechanics (17 lectures) - brief review of kinematics and dynamics, rotational mechanics
Thermal Physics (10 lectures) - temperature, thermal properties of matter, the first and second laws of thermodynamics
Oscillations & Waves (10 lectures) - basic oscillations and wave concepts, developed for mechanical, acoustic and water
waves
The lectures are intended to guide you in your study of the textbook.
Tutorials/Workshops
You will have 12 one-hour Workshop tutorials based on and supporting the lecture modules. You will work in groups of four on
a selection of qualitative and quantitative questions and problems, and investigate physical phenomena with demonstration
apparatus. Tutors are present to assist you.
Assignments
You will be given 6 web-based MasteringPhysics sets of Assignment questions. MasteringPhysics provides questions that use a
'Socratic dialogue' - when you get stuck in answering a problem it offers a simpler problem and provides feedback tailored to
your answers. It offers the opportunity to develop your understanding of concepts and your problem-solving ability through
compulsory assignment questions and optional extra questions
Laboratory Work
You will have 9 three-hour laboratory sessions, working in groups of three on a range of experiments with tutors to assist you.
One session will be devoted, in part, to developing skills in computer data analysis. A ninth session will be occupied by a
Practice test of lecture content and a laboratory Skills test.
Pre-lecture Quizzes
There are 12 weekly online modules to be done before10am Monday, before the first Regular Physics lecture of the week. These
are done on eLearning.
Independent Study
You are expected to do up to 6 hours (per week) of independent study. Use this time to:
read through and understand relevant sections of the textbook
work through the assigned examples in the text
attempt the MasteringPhysics questions
study for the skills test and final examination
On-line exercise
You must complete an online exercise on plagiarism and academic honesty sometime before Friday 15 April. This exercise is
located on the Library Research and information skills web site - go direct to
http://sydney.edu.au/library/skills/elearning/learn/plagiarism/index.php. A digital certificate of completion must be printed after
completing the exercise and taken to the Lab session. This digital certificate can also be used for other non-Physics courses that
have this requirement.
The following Learning Commitment Table summarises a suggested allocation of your time to meet these commitments.

In class activities Hours Independent Study Hours

Lectures (37 @ 1 hr each) 37 Reading of text for lectures (37 @ 0.5 hr each) 18.5
Workshop Tutorials (12 @ 1 hr each) 12 Reading of lecture notes after lectures (37 @ 0.25 hr each) 9.25
Laboratory sessions (9 @ 3 hrs each) 27 Revision and self assessment (13 @ 1 hr each) 13
Assignments (6 @ 3 hr each) 18
Total 76
Preparation for practicals (8 @ 0.5 hr each) 4
Preparation for Practice and Skills test 4
On-line Plagiarism exercise 0.5
 Total 67.25

Study Tips
You are now in control of your own study strategy, and as an adult learner it is up to you to devise a study plan that best suits
you. If you attend classes regularly and involve yourself in all of these learning experiences, you will gain a good understanding
of the course work. This will have a considerable impact on your exam preparation and performance.
Good study habits are also very important - we offer some suggestions on our Learning Physics web page
sydney.edu.au/science/physics/current/learningphysics.shtml.
As preparation, you should read How to Succeed in Physics by Really Trying on pages vii - viii of the textbook. You should
also read and understand Section 1.5, Uncertainty and Significant Figures, and Section 1.6, Estimates and Orders of Magnitude.

4 Learning and Teaching Activities

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Lectures

You will be scheduled into one lecture stream (there are two streams), with three one-hour lectures per week in the lecture theatre indicated for
your stream.

Lectures commence Mon 29 February and end Fri 5 June

Stream 1 - Messel Lecture Theatre (Sydney Nanoscience Hub Lecture Theatre 4002) - Mon 10am, Wed 10am, Fri 10am
Stream 2 - Slade Lecture Theatre - Mon 2 pm, Wed 2pm, Thurs 2pm

Please consult your personal timetable on myUni for more details.

NB: There are no lectures on Thursday 22 March, or over Easter (Friday 25 March to Friday 1 April).

Tutorials/Workshops

You should attend a single one-hour workshop tutorial per week. Times and venues will be displayed on the unit Blackboard
pages. Workshop tutorials start in the second week of semester commencing Monday, 7 March. The final tutorial will be in the
week commencing Monday, 30 May.
Note that participation in Workshop Tutorials will be recorded. A mark is allocated to Workshop participation.
Laboratory Work

The laboratory component is divided into several sections:

4 weeks - mechanics, fluid flow; including concepts, problem solving, use of computers in physics.
3 weeks - wave motion, lenses; planning and problem solving skills, use of computer in physics, data analysis and uncertainties.
2 weeks - registration and data analysis, Practice and Skills tests.

You will be scheduled into one, three-hour laboratory session per week in the Carslaw Building on Level 4 - Rooms 401, 402, 407 and 408.

Your first laboratory session is during the second week of semester commencing Monday 7 March. The final laboratory session will be the week
commencing Monday 23 May. Some weeks there are no laboratory classes - consult the timetable on the back cover of your Lab Manual
for details.

Pre-lecture Quizzes

Each week, before attending your physics lectures, you are required to complete a short 15 minute pre-lecture to prepare for the week. These
short quizzes are available on eLearning and you will require your unikey to log in. The quizzes will be available from 5pm Thursday until 10am
Monday, the start of the first Regular Physics lecture of the week.

Mastering Physics

All assignments are done using the MasteringPhysics system. MasteringPhysics is accessed only through links from the eLearning system (also
known as Blackboard). Detailed registration instructions for new users or for those students changing textbooks can be found on the "Mastering
Physics" main link from Blackboard. You should contact Dr Pulin Gong, [email protected] if you have problems with your
access.

Note that this free access to MasteringPhysics does not provide access to the textbook. Please see the section on resources for information on the
textbook access options.

Questions in MasteringPhysics are presented in groups (called 'assignments' by the system) with a title such as Electromagnetism - Assignment 1
and Tutorial Questions. There are six 'assignments' for this unit of study. 'Introduction to MasteringPhysics' is an extra, short assignment illustrating
the features of the system.

Assignment questions must be completed by 7pm (local time) on the due date. Available marks ramp down to zero in the five hours after the
assignment deadline. It is therefore essential that you seek permission if you need to submit the assignment late. All assignment questions remain
accessible to you for review (but no more marks will be awarded!) until the end of the semester.

Help in using MasteringPhysics can be obtained from links from Blackboard, or

Extensive on-line help

A discussion group on eLearning for this unit is monitored by Physics staff.
email the MasteringPhysics coordinator, Dr Pulin Gong, [email protected]

5 Teaching Staff and Contact Details

Unit Coordinator Email

Teaching Staff Email Room Phone Note

Physics,
Mechanics
Room
- stream 1
105
H90
Rosehill
Mechanics
Street,
- stream 2
Room
210
Physics,
Thermal -
Room
stream 1
213
F09
Madsen, Thermal -
Room streams 2
434
H90
Rosehill
Waves -
[email protected] Street,
streams 1
Room
226
F09
Madsen, Waves -
[email protected]
Room streams 2
272

6 Learning Resources
Textbook

The lecture modules are based on the textbook:

University Physics with Modern Physics, 14th Edition, by Young and Freedman (Y&F). Published by Pearson.

ISBN: 9781292100319

This text and resource package can be purchased from the University Co-Op bookshop or directly from Pearson online at pearson.com.au. The
School of Physics will provide the online assignment component, MasteringPhysics. You do not need to purchase any MasteringPhysics product,
either alone or bundled with books.
The options you have are:

1. Printed text Traditional hard copy

www.pearson.com.au/9781292100319 (FREE DELIVERY) $150

http://www.coop.com.au/bookshop/show/university-physics-wmodern-physics-pearson-new-international-edition-young-freedman/9781292020631/
$150
2. eBook of the full text

http://www.pearson.com.au/9781292033907 ~$60

This is a fully downloadable eBook which does not expire. You can load this copy onto an iPad/tablet and/or a computer using the VitalSource
Bookshelf app.

3. eText of the full book to accompany MasteringPhysics

Refer to Blackboard and follow the links to MasteringPhysics. Once logged in successfully, click on the eText link and follow prompts to purchase
an eText directly. The price is US$44. This is strictly the US edition of the 14th edition and contains a couple of additional appendices. Note: do not
purchase this outside of your Blackboard site otherwise it will not link to your unit. This will provide access to the eText for the length of your unit.
You can also access this on an iPad or tablet using the Pearson eText app. You will need to be online to view the eText version.

4. A second-hand hard copy

You may be able to find a used hard copy. Ideally this will be the US or New International versions of the 13th edition. The 12th edition has some
differences but at a pinch is still workable.

Laboratory Manual

The laboratory segment of the unit is covered by:

PHYS 1001 Physics 1 (Regular) Laboratory Manual, prepared by the School of Physics

The Laboratory Manual is available online from the eLearning site for this unit and also available for purchase at the University Copy Centre
located at lower ground level, Sydney University Sports & Aquatic Centre.

Lecture Module Outlines

There is a module outline for each of the three lecture modules, available on the eLearning pages for this unit. These list specific objectives that
define what you should learn and understand about the detailed content of each chapter of the textbook. Understanding a term or concept means
that you should be able to:

explain its meaning in writing and give examples;

interpret it correctly when you read or hear it;
use it correctly in your own writing; and
apply it correctly to examples and problems.

The module outline also lists what sections of the textbook are relevant.

Web Resources

The University eLearning system elearning.sydney.edu.au provides resources to help you with your studies, please spend time getting acquainted
with this site. MyUni sydney.edu.au/myuni is the student portal providing University information and services. Access to MyUni and eLearning
requires a Unikey username and password that is issued with your confirmation of enrolment. The University provides computer facilities
described on the Student IT pages at http://sydney.edu.au/ict/student/. The ‘Current Students’ link on the School of Physics web page
sydney.edu.au/science/physics also provides resources to help you with your studies.

Email
The University provides you with email access based on your username. We may use this email address to provide you with important information
regarding this unit of study. We expect you to periodically read your email account or to forward mail from it to an account you do read
(eg a gmail account).

Where to go for help

If you need help, you can:

as a first step, always check your unit eLearning pages for information, documents and links
ask other students using the Discussion Board on the unit eLearning page.
go to the Physics Office, Room 210 in the Physics building, or phone 9351 3037
ask your lecturer or tutor
ask a Duty Tutor - a staff member who is available Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 1-2 pm, in Sydney Nanoscience Hub Seminar Room
3001 to help you with problems with physics course material - available from Week 3 of semester.
consult one of the many services provided by the University, such as the Maths Learning Centre. These can be found by choosing Junior
Physics Resources and Links from the unit eLearning page or your MyUni pages sydney.edu.au/myuni.
for Lab issues contact A/Prof Joe Khachan, Lab Coordinator, [email protected]
for MasteringPhysics issues contact Dr Pulin Gong, [email protected]

Providing us with feedback

We welcome comments on all aspects of this unit. You should feel free to contact your lecturers, tutors or the First Year Coordinator by email using
the People@Physics list on the Physics web pages. There is also a formal opportunity for feedback at the Staff-Student Liaison meeting, held one
lunchtime towards the end of semester with staff and student representatives from the various units of study, including this one.
7 Assessment Tasks

Assessment

Assessment tasks are intended to allow you to demonstrate what you have learned related to the goals of this unit. They also
serve to encourage you to work with the material, but should not dominate your approach to learning. See them as another
learning activity, accompanying and complementing those listed earlier.

Assessment of this unit of study is based on achievement of specific learning objectives (listed in the module outlines)
demonstrated in a combination of assignments, tests examination and laboratory work. Satisfactory performance in ALL aspects
of assessment is necessary to ensure a pass in this unit.

In addition, students in physics must be able to express themselves accurately by clear, efficient use of the English language in
their written work. Spelling, grammar, punctuation and correct use of language will be taken into account when written reports
and examination work are assessed. Students should refer to the University’s WriteSite (http://writesite.elearn.usyd.edu.au/) if
they are looking for guidance on grammar and other aspects of academic and professional writing.

You are responsible for understanding the University policy regarding assessment and examination, which can be found in the
University Policy Register at http://sydney.edu.au/policies/.
The method of combining marks from various assessment tasks is perhaps a little different to what you may be used to in other
units, although this should not affect your approach to each assessment task. ALL assessment tasks are compulsory.

Your final grade will be based principally on your performance in the final exam and mid-semester test. All Summative
Assessments are marked and have mark standards that must be achieved to be eligible for each grade in your final result.
Refer to section 7.2 on Assessment Grading to see exactly how marks in each assessment determine your final grade.

7.1 Summative Assessments

Learning
Assessment Task Due Date
Outcomes
Introduction to Mastering Physics Week 2 1, 2, 4
Friday, 11 March 2016
Mechanics - Assignment 1 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 4, 5) Week 3 1, 2, 4
Friday, 18 March 2016
Mechanics - Assignment 2 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 6, 7, 8) Week 5 1, 2, 4
Thursday, 07 April 2016
Mechanics - Assignment 3 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 9, 10) Week 7 1, 2, 4
Friday, 22 April 2016
Thermal Physics - Assignment 4 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. Week 9 1, 2, 4
17, 19) Friday, 06 May 2016
Thermal Physics - Assignment 5 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. Week 11 1, 2, 4
20, 13) Friday, 20 May 2016
Waves - Assignment 6 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 13, 15, 16) Week 13 1, 2, 4
Friday, 03 June 2016
Workshop Tutorials Weekly (weeks: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 1, 2, 6, 7
13)
Laboratory Work Weekly (weeks: 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10 and 11) 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Pre-lecture quizzes Weekly (weeks: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 1, 2, 5
13)
Mid-semester test Week 7 1, 2, 3, 5, 7
(week starting Sunday, 17 April 2016)
 Final Examination Exam Period 1, 2, 5, 7

Descriptions of Summative Assessments

Introduction to Mastering Physics

Each assignment (apart from the Introduction to MasteringPhysics) is divided into two components.
Tutorial Questions. These all feature the full MasteringPhysics Socratic dialogue - when you get stuck in answering a
problem it offers a simpler problem and provides feedback tailored to your answers. These have been selected by your
lecturers to help your understanding and problem-solving ability. They are not assessed but we strongly recommend you
look at some of these questions, which will remain available after the assignment deadline until the end of the semester.
Assignment Questions are compulsory questions and represent the minimum use you should make of the system. 8
questions are offered, each worth 5 marks even though some are a little longer than others. The questions are a mix:
tutorial-style questions teaching you concepts and problem-solving techniques; and end-of-chapter problems from the
textbook. The tutorial-style questions have full hints and feedback, while the end-of-chapter questions do not.
The marking scheme gives a small reward when answers are achieved without using the hints, but no penalty if you do use them.
See the MasteringPhysics FAQ at sydney.edu.au/science/physics/ /pdfs/current/jphys/MP_faq.pdf for more details.
Read each problem, then work on it before trying to enter your answer. We don’t want you to sit down and type in the answers
without working on and thinking about them first. Try the problem without a hint first, then, if you get stuck, try the hint. For
assignment questions, we give you eight chances to get the correct answer (although there is a small penalty for wrong answers).
The objective is to get the right answer using as much help as it takes.

Your answers need to be formatted correctly so be smart and use the help the system provides:
Values of constants can be found using the 'constants' button near the top of the page.
See the Help linked from "?" at the right end of relevant boxes for more help with formatting.
Move your mouse over symbols in the question to see how to type them in correctly.
We encourage students to cooperate in understanding all the questions since the objective is to understand concepts and develop
your problem-solving ability. However all assignment questions using MasteringPhysics must be completed individually.
Simply copying the work of another person without acknowledgment is plagiarism and contrary to University policies on
Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism in Coursework, see
http://sydney.edu.au/learning/education_policy/academic_dishonesty_in_coursework_policy_2012.pdf.

MasteringPhysics marks the assignments automatically and you immediately know your result. Worked solutions to all
Assignment Questions will be posted on the web, although you should have the answer once you complete
each MasteringPhysics question. Note that some assignment questions use randomised values - i.e. different students see the
question with different values.

Assessment Assessment Due Due

Individual/Group Length Weight
Name Conditions Date Time
Introduction
See 11
to
Individual Compulsory N/A section March 7:00pm
Mastering
7.3 2016
Physics

Mechanics - Assignment 1 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 4, 5)

Assessment Assessment Due Due

Individual/Group Length Weight
Name Conditions Date Time
Mechanics See 18
Assignment Individual Compulsory N/A section March 7:00pm
1 7.3 2016

Mechanics - Assignment 2 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 6, 7, 8)

Assessment Assessment Due Due

Individual/Group Length Weight
Name Conditions Date Time
Mechanics See 7
Assignment Individual Compulsory N/A section April 7:00pm
2 7.3 2016

Mechanics - Assignment 3 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 9, 10)

Assessment Assessment Due Due

Individual/Group Length Weight
Name Conditions Date Time
Mechanics See 22
Assignment Individual Compulsory N/A section April 7:00pm
3 7.3 2016

Thermal Physics - Assignment 4 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 17, 19)

Assessment Assessment Due Due

Individual/Group Length Weight
Name Conditions Date Time
Thermal
See 6
Physics
Individual Compulsory N/A section May 7:00pm
Assignment
7.3 2016
4

Thermal Physics - Assignment 5 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 20, 13)

Assessment Assessment Due Due

Individual/Group Length Weight
Name Conditions Date Time
Thermal
See 20
Physics
Individual Compulsory N/A section May 7:00pm
Assignment
7.3 2016
5
Waves - Assignment 6 and Tutorial Questions (Ch. 13, 15, 16)

Assessment Assessment Due Due

Individual/Group Length Weight
Name Conditions Date Time
Waves See 3
Assignment Individual Compulsory N/A section June 7:00pm
6 7.3 2016

Workshop Tutorials
Contributing to Workshop Tutorials is an important part of success in this Unit of Study. We measure your contribution by
collecting group answer sheets and assigning an overall mark for your work during the semester.

Laboratory Work
Assessment in the laboratory is based on successful completion of laboratory work. For each laboratory session, you are
awarded a mark for successfully completing each checkpoint. Satisfactory performance in Laboratory work is necessary for a
pass in the unit, but if you work well in the laboratory you will learn a lot and be well on the way to passing this unit.

Pre-lecture quizzes
There are 12 weekly pre-lecture quizzes to be done before the first Regular Physics lecture of the week. These are done on
eLearning, and are intended to enhance your in-class learning. Assessment is for successful completion of the quiz, not a mark
for correct answers.

Mid-semester test
The mid-semester test is a paper-based test conducted in a laboratory session. It is based on lecture material from the first
module of the unit, as well as laboratory skills such as uncertainties and graphing. This will be done in week 7 in your regular
lab time, and will form 20% of your final grade.

Assessment Assessment Due Due

Individual/Group Length Weight
Name Conditions Date Time
Week
Mid-Semester 7 In
Individual Compulsory N/A 20% N/A
Test Lab
Class

Final Examination
In the examination at the end of the semester you will be asked to write descriptive answers to questions, to explain physical
principles and to answer quantitative questions, all aimed at demonstrating your progress in achieving the goals of the unit.
Ability to memorise formulas and manipulate them without understanding the associated physics will not be rewarded. Note that
you must bring your own calculator to any Junior Physics examination. See the University policy on calculators at
http://sydney.edu.au/current_students/student_administration/examinations/students.shtml#calculators

Assessment Assessment Due Due

Individual/Group Length Weight
Name Conditions Date Time
See Final
Final
Individual Compulsory N/A section Exam N/A
Examination
7.3 Period

7.2 Formative Assessments

Assessment Task Date Available Learning Outcomes

Academic Honesty Education Module Always Available 7

Descriptions of Formative Assessments

Academic Honesty Education Module

The Academic Honesty Education Module appears as a compulsory extra unit of study (AHEM1001) on every new student's
eLearning page if you are a commencing student from Semester 1 2016 at the University of Sydney. It is compulsory because
the University wants all commencing students to have a basic understanding of academic integrity and honesty. When you
understand these concepts and how they relate to your studies, you will be able to start your university journey better prepared to
succeed. We strongly advise you to complete this module while you are preparing for your first assignment. The module
contains nine quizzes, each of which must be completed with full marks before you are able to progress. The initial attempt at
each quiz is intended to be challenging, so do not be discouraged if you get tripped up. The module will probably take you up to
90 minutes but you do not have to complete it in one sitting because your progress will be saved. It is available for you to
complete until the end of this semester. A record will be made on your academic transcript when you have successfully
completed the module. The concepts covered in this module will be also contextualised in activities presented within the
particular units in which you are enrolled.

7.3 Assessment Grading

Final grades in this unit are awarded at levels of HD (High Distinction), DI (Distinction), CR (Credit), PS (Pass) and FA (Fail)
as defined by the Academic Board Assessment Coursework Policy 2014. These achievement levels are described below. Details
of the policy are available on the University's 'Policy Online' website at http://www.sydney.edu.au/policies/.

The assessments for this unit are described in this unit of study outline. This description includes the purpose, timing and
weighting of each assessment item and an explanation of how task relate to the learning outcomes of the unit. Students are
responsible for actively engaging with these assessments, including carefully reading the guidance provided, spending sufficient
time on the task, ensuring their work is authentic and their own (whether individual or group work), completing work on time
and acting on feedback provided.

The grading system used in this unit of study is somewhat different from that used in most other units. It is based on setting
appropriate standards in different types of assessment. ALL assessment tasks are compulsory.
Your final grade will be based principally on your performance in the two examination-style exams assessments where you are
working by yourself:
final exam (80%)
mid-semester test (20%)
The minimum standard to achieve a pass mark in this unit is:
 Final exam + mid-semester test: ≥ 50%

AND
Lab: ≥ 15/29 checkpoints
You must meet BOTH of these standards to pass this unit.

However, ALL assessments contribute to your final grade if you want to get more than a bare pass.

Each higher grade has a minimum mark that MUST be achieved to be eligible for that Grade in your final result – i.e. to achieve
a High Distinction (HD) you must achieve a HD standard in ALL assessments. If you do not meet this standard, your mark will
drop to the middle of the grade below.

Standards for achievement in each assessment task are as follows:

Exam +
mid-semester Assignments Tutorials Laboratory Pre-lecture
test (/100) (/12) (/29) quizzes
(/100) (/12)
HD 85.0 80 9 25 11
DI 75.0 65 9 21 10
CR 65.0 50 6 18 8
PS 50.0 15

For example:

If you did poorly in the mid-semester test (8/20), but much better in the final exam (68/80), your total mark for the two
examination-style assessments would be 76% for the two exams. This is a Distinction (DI) standard. However, for this to be
your final result, you would also need to achieve at least Distinction standard in ALL your other assessments -- i.e.
at least 65% in your assignments
participated in at least 9/12 tutorials
completed at least 21/29 checkpoints in the lab
completed at least 10/12 of the Pre-Lecture Quizzes
Most Distinction students will achieve these standards relatively easily as part of their conscientious work during the semester.

However, if (for instance) you didn't submit any assignments, then your 78% in the exams is dropped to a grade of 70 CR – the
middle of the Credit range.

A more dramatic change would result if you had only completed 10/29 checkpoints in the lab. You have then not achieved one
of the two minimum standards required to pass this unit and you would receive a 49 FA.

Of course, if you have a valid reason for missing an assessment which is approved via the Special Consideration process, your
marks will be adjusted to allow for this.

The way to succeed in this unit is to do well in the various tests (as always) and to complete most (preferably all) of the other
assessment tasks.

In Junior Physics, our aim is to give everyone a chance of a high grade, irrespective of their unit of study. To achieve this, we
compare the units by having parts of the assessment in common. In the final examination for example, some questions are
common on the various papers. We look at average marks for common and non-common questions to prevent one class being
disadvantaged by, say, a difficult question that isn't on other papers. The result of this moderation process is a higher percentage
of HDs and DIs in the Advanced unit (as you might expect), but the process also ensures there are HDs and DIs awarded in the
other units of study to students who excel.
Grades:
High Distinction (HD)
At HD level, a student demonstrates a flair for the subject and comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the unit material.
A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates the ability to apply subject
knowledge to novel situations.
Distinction (DI)
At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a solid knowledge and understanding of the unit material. A
‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply the key ideas of the
subject.
Credit (CR)
At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement
and is awarded to a student who has a broad understanding of the unit material but has not fully developed the ability to apply the
key ideas of the subject.
Pass (PS)
At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the unit material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory achievement and is awarded to
a student who has threshold knowledge of the subject.

8 Learning and Teaching Policies

EQUITY, ACCESS AND DIVERSITY STATEMENT
The School of Physics is strongly committed to providing equity of access and opportunity to all students, and to make our
environment supportive for everyone. The School has three Equity Officers who act as a point of contact for students who may
have a query or concern about any issues relating to equity, access and diversity. If you feel you have not been treated fairly,
discriminated against or disadvantaged in any way, you are encouraged to talk to one of the Equity Officers or any member of
the Physics staff. More information can be found at http://sydney.edu.au/science/physics/about/equity.shtml
Any student who feels she/he may need an accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact Disability Services
http://sydney.edu.au/current_students/disability/ who can help arrange support.
CONSIDERATION OF FACTORS AFFECTING YOUR STUDY
While studying at the University of Sydney, a student may need to apply for special consideration or special arrangements as
follows:

Special Consideration may be granted where well-documented illness, injury or misadventure occurs to the student (or
someone the student has carer’s responsibility for) during semester or the exam period.
Longer term health or emotional issues are best managed with adjustments to course assessments as part of an Academic Plan
developed in discussion between the student and Disabilities Services
Special Arrangements may be granted for certain personal circumstances - for example the birth of a child, or religious or
cultural commitments - or for essential community commitments - for example compulsory legal absence (e.g. Jury duty), elite
sporting or cultural commitments (representing the University, state or country), or Australian Defence Force or Emergency
Service commitments (e.g. Army Reserve).

Note that, unlike some other faculties, the Faculty of Science does not offer 'Simple Extensions' for assessments.
ALL requests for an extension of time on an assessment must be made by applying for Special Consideration or Special
Arrangements as outlined above.

Further information on eligibility, document requirements and how to apply is available at

http://sydney.edu.au/science/cstudent/ug/forms.shtml#special_consideration. Applications must be made using the University’s
formal online application process no later than three (3) working days after the assessment occurrence or due date (unless a
reasonable explanation for a delay is provided).

You should not submit an application of either type if

 there is no assessment associated with a missed class, or
you have a reasonable opportunity to make up any work you missed.
Students unsure what type of Consideration is appropriate, or unhappy with a Consideration decision, should consult the Student
Centre.
For full details of applicable university policies and procedures, see the web site at sydney.edu.au/policy.
Replacement assessments for end of semester examinations
Students who apply for and are granted either special arrangements or special consideration for end of semester examinations in
units offered by the Faculty of Science will be expected to sit any replacement assessments in the two weeks immediately
following the end of the formal examination period. Later dates for replacement assessments may be considered where the
application is supported by appropriate documentation and provided that adequate resources are available to accommodate any
later date.
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY/PLAGIARISM
The School of Physics will NOT accept assessments that are simply copied. Copying the work of another person without
acknowledgment is plagiarism and contrary to University policies on Academic Honesty and Plagiarism as described on the
University Policy Register web site (https://sydney.edu.au/policy/). An outline of what constitutes Academic Dishonesty and
Plagiarism can be found at https://sydney.edu.au/science/physics/local/acadhonesty.shtml.
Student Appeals
Students have the right to appeal any academic decision made by a school or the faculty. The appeal must follow the appropriate
procedure so that a fair hearing is obtained. The formal application form can be obtained at:
https://sydney.edu.au/science/cstudent/ug/forms.shtml#appeals
Other University Policies
University Policies most relevant to an undergraduate coursework student are:
Learning and Teaching Policy
Coursework Policy
Assessment Procedures
Academic Honesty in Coursework
Student Appeals against Academic Decisions
For full details of these and other university policies and procedures, see the University Policy Register web site at
sydney.edu.au/policy.
Relevant forms and procedures are also available on the Faculty website at https://sydney.edu.au/science/cstudent/ug/forms.shtml