What is distinctive about the
Matter & Interactions curriculum?
Matter & Interactions emphasizes:
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A modern, atomic view of matter and its interactions
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Solving large problems based on a small number
of fundamental concepts and principles
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Using computers to compute and visualize the motion
of physical systems
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A textbook (Matter & Interactions)
that supports these goals and activities
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Multimode sessions involving experiments, problem-solving,
and computer modeling every week
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Click
here for more information about Matter & Interactions
What is distinctive about SCALE-UP?
In SCALE-UP classes, students learn to work in collaborative
teams on a wide variety of hands-on activities. Very little class time
is actually devoted to lecturing.
Do I need to register for a
particular recitation section?
Yes. You MUST register for and attend the recitation
numbered 33984, which meets on Mondays in 210 Thaw Hall (the regular
classroom) from 2:00-2:50. DO NOT register for any other section of
Phys 0175.
Do I have to go to recitation
every week?
Yes. The SCALE-UP class hops back and forth between
"lecture" and "lab" during each class meeting, and
your participation is required. In addition to hands-on activities,
you will develop computer models, and will work in groups on large,
challenging problems.
What if I've never done computer
modeling before?
That's fine - most students haven't. We'll teach you
what you need to know to do the work in this course.
Do I need a lab manual?
No. Bring your textbook to lab. Some experiments are
in the book; others will be on the web.
How can I work on VPython outside
of class?
Do I have to write large lab
reports?
Sometimes. Most activities will be like "mini-labs",
which will involve both prediction and analysis. For a few of the longer
activities you will need to work with your group to produce a detailed
lab report. You can find a LOT of help about writing labs
online.
Do I have to do the labs if I
have lab credit from a previous semester?
Yes. Previous lab credit does not count. The activities
in SCALE-UP Matter & Interactions labs are different from the activities
in other lab sections.
How are the SCALE-UP sections
different from other Matter & Interactions sections?
Rather than sitting at round tables to work in cooperative
teams, students in the traditional sections listen to three 50-minute
lectures per week in an ordinary lecture hall. In addition, students
in the traditional class meet weekly for lab in a mixed-mode studio-like
format somewhat like a mini-SCALE-UP class.
How do I get help on this course?
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Ask a question in the WebAssign On-Line Discussion
Forum
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Come talk to or e-mail your instructor or TA.
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Come to the TA's office hours, or make an appointment.
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Take advantage of the Pitt Library.
How are grades computed?
See the course Syllabus for
this and other information.
This page last updated
2009-01-07 16:00
University
of Pittsburgh