Skagit Valley College

Catalog Course Search Details

 Course Title:   General Physics I

 Title Abbreviation:   GENERAL PHYSICS I

 Department:    PHYS&

 Course #:    134

 Credits:    5

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    5

 CIP:    400801

 EPC:    n/a

 REV:    2018


 Course Description  

Algebra-based physics course. The subject matter is mechanics with emphasis on Newton's laws, energy, momentum, and rotational motion.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: MATH 099 with a GPA of 2.0 or higher. Concurrent enrollment in PHYS& 124 required. Appropriate placement or GPA of 2.0 or higher in ENGL 099.

Additional Course Details

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 55

Lab: 0

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0


Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Academic Natural Sciences  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Other Institution Equivalencies Table
Institution Course # Remarks
CWU 111
U of W 114
WSU 1XX Transfers as 101 when student completes General Physics I and II with labs
WWU Transfers as 114 when student completes General Physics I

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Have a conceptual knowledge of the laws of motion
  2. Solve algebra-based problems based on Newton's Laws and other concepts of motion
  3. Appreciate the central role energy plays in physics and solve problems based on the conservation of energy
  4. Recognize diverse learning styles through group work

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

8. Mathematical Reasoning

Definition: Understanding and applying concepts of mathematics and logical reasoning in a variety of contexts, both academic and non-academic.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
8.2 Correctly apply logical reasoning and mathematical principles to solve problems.
8.3 Interpret information and reasoning expressed mathematically (for example in spreadsheets, diagrams, charts, formulas, etc.).

9. Scientific Literacy

Definition: Understanding scientific principles, and analyzing and applying scientific information in a variety of contexts.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
9.1 Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental scientific concepts.
9.2 Demonstrate their understanding of the principles of scientific methods, analysis, and reasoning.
9.3 Analyze, apply, and communicate scientific concepts and principles in context (for example, in technological, personal, and/or professional situations).

Course Contents

  1. Scalars and vectors
  2. Kinematics:
    • Displacement, velocity, and acceleration
  3. Statics and dynamics
    • Newton's Laws, forces, and equilibrium
  4. Circular motion and satellite motion
  5. Work, power and energy
  6. Momentum, impulse, and center of mass
  7. Rotational kinematics and dynamics