PHYS 2212 — Syllabus

Course Description

PHYS 2212 – Principles of Physics II: this course is the second part of the Principles of Physics sequence and requires prior knowledge of differentiation and integration. It begins with a brief review of mechanics and vectors, followed by an in-depth study of electricity and magnetism. The course also includes an introduction to wave phenomena through the principle of superposition, covering interference, diffraction, and polarization, as well as topics in physical and geometrical optics.

Prerequisites

MATH 2212 or MATH 2202, and PHYS 2211K (or PHYS 2211 & PHYS 2211L), with grades of C or higher. This is the second in a calculus-based two-course survey of the primary fields of physics.

Teaching Method

This course is grounded in the principle that meaningful understanding is actively constructed. While lectures can be informative and motivating, mastery of physics requires engagement beyond passive listening and watching videos. The course therefore emphasizes a “learning by doing” approach, designed to make class time as effective and productive as possible. Lectures will be concise and focused, with the majority of class time devoted to active learning. Students are expected to engage fully by discussing concepts, solving problems, presenting solutions, and collaborating with peers.

Required Material

1. Textbook: Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics, 5th Edition, by Randall D. Knight (Ch. 16–17, 22–35). You may purchase the e-book along with the homework platform.
2. A folder/notebook or composition book to take notes and solve example problems done in class. You learn physics only by doing physics.
3. Homework: Mastering Physics — accessible directly from iCollege; payment is due after the 14-day grace period expires.
4. Computer access — needed for iCollege access, online homework, lecture videos, Gradescope-graded exams, and graded worksheets.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Describe, calculate, and apply electric force, electric field, electric potential, and electric potential energy of charges and charged objects.
• Predict the kinematics of charged particles inside electric fields or potentials.
• Describe and calculate electric current, voltage, resistance, power, resistivity, capacitance, and inductance, and analyze electrical circuits.
• Describe, calculate, and apply magnetic fields due to permanent magnets and electromagnets.
• Calculate the magnetic force on charges in magnetic fields, and the kinematics of moving charges in electromagnetic fields.
• Describe and apply the laws of electromagnetic induction to calculate voltages, currents, power, and magnetic forces, and make predictions.
• Describe electromagnetic waves.
• Describe and predict wave motion, travelling waves, and superposition of waves.
• Apply the wave model of light to diffraction, interference, and polarization.
• Describe and apply the ray model of light.

Core IMPACTS

This is a Core IMPACTS course, part of the STEM area.

Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic areas. This course helps master course content and supports students’ broader academic and career goals.

This course directs students toward a broad orienting question: How do I ask scientific questions, or use data, mathematics, or technology, to understand the universe?

Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following learning outcome: students will use the scientific method and laboratory procedures, or mathematical and computational methods, to analyze data, solve problems, and explain natural phenomena.

Course content, activities, and exercises should help students develop these career-ready competencies: inquiry and analysis, problem-solving, and teamwork.

Important Dates

• Last day to withdraw: Wednesday, October 8
• Test 1: September 29
• Test 2: November 3
• Final exam: to be announced

Grading Policy

The grading system is based on both formative and summative assessment. The two 75-minute tests are given in class. The final exam is also in-class, based on the university exam schedule. Quizzes (one per week, except test weeks) are done in class; the lowest two are dropped. Students complete worksheets collaboratively during class, and graded ones count toward the worksheet grade. Only tests and the final exam may be curved, as deemed appropriate; homework, quizzes, and worksheet grades are not curved. Grades posted to iCollege reflect any curving that occurs.

Grade Item	Weight
Tests (Test 1 and Test 2, each 15%)	30%
Final Exam	20%
Quizzes	20%
Online MP Homework	15%
Graded Worksheets	15%
Attendance and participation bonus	3%

Grade breakpoints

Grade	+	(no suffix)	−
A	97–100	93–96	90–92
B	87–89	83–86	80–82
C	77–79	73–76	70–72
D	67–69	63–66	60–62
F		0–59

Attendance Policy

You are strongly encouraged to attend all classes. Consistent attendance not only supports your understanding of physics but can also earn you a 3% bonus toward your final grade. To receive the full bonus, you may miss no more than two class sessions; students who miss more than six classes are not eligible for the attendance bonus. You must arrive on time and stay for the entire class period to receive credit for that day.

This bonus is a reward, not a penalty system — no distinction is made between excused and unexcused absences for bonus eligibility. However, to be considered for an excused absence for other course-related purposes, contact the instructor either before the missed class or within 24 hours after. Students are responsible for all material covered and announcements made during class, regardless of attendance. Longer absences (more than three straight class days) must be communicated through the Dean of Students to receive an excused absence. Selected video lectures, announcements, and material are always available on iCollege. The instructor is also available during office hours and by appointment outside class hours.

Academic Integrity Statement

Academic dishonesty is a serious violation of the trust upon which the success of our University depends. Cheating and plagiarism can not only result in a poor grade and penalties from the University, but can cause your mentors and peers to mistrust you and keep you from developing the habits of a successful student and future professional. The University’s policy on academic honesty is published in the Student Handbook and includes dishonest actions such as cheating, plagiarism, and facilitating academic dishonesty. Violations of this policy will result in a grade of “F” for the assignment or the course. If you have questions about the policy, or are unsure whether something counts as academic dishonesty, come to office hours to discuss it.

Accommodations

Students who wish to request an accommodation for a documented disability may do so by registering with the Access and Accommodation Center. Students may only be accommodated upon issuance by the Access and Accommodation Center of a signed Accommodation Plan, and are responsible for providing a copy of that plan to instructors of all classes in which accommodations are sought.