Units
Physical Sciences
Unit code: QCF153
Contact hours: 4 per week
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs
This unit introduces students to scientific study and research processes and the basic principles underlying physics and chemistry; heat and temperature; geometric properties of light; reflection and refraction; diffraction and interference; introduction to electricity and magnetism; the atom; chemical periodicity; chemical names and formulas; chemical bonding; chemical quantities; chemical reactions; stoichiometry; thermochemistry; the behaviour of gases; water and aqueous systems; properties of solutions.
Availability
| Semester | Available |
|---|---|
| 2013 13TP1 | Yes |
| 2013 13TP2 | Yes |
| 2013 13TP3 | Yes |
Sample subject outline - 13 Week Teaching Period - 1 2013
Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.
Rationale
The physical sciences are the enabling sciences that underpin all of the 'new technologies'. Almost all areas of science and technology require a fundamental understanding of chemistry and physics. This unit is designed as an introductory unit for students who then can elect to take either Chemistry and/or Physics in second semester. Physical Sciences provide a solid foundation in both chemistry and physics upon which further knowledge can be built.
Aims
The aim of this unit is to:
Objectives
On completion of this unit, students should be able to:
- acquire knowledge about facts, theories, concepts and principles of physics and chemistry, to engage with the theories and issues of physics and chemistry, and to interpret the interrelationships and predict outcomes occurring within physical and chemical contexts. (FGC 2)
- recognise the methodologies available to students, to conduct experimental processes safely, to judge the worth of qualitative data, and to interpret and apply the outcomes of quantitative data. (FGC 3)
- synthesise one's own thoughts and the thinking of others, determine interrelationships, propose solutions and justify decisions, and communicate findings. (FGC1,5, & 6)
Key: Foundation Graduate Capabilities
FGC 1: Effective communication in a variety of contexts and modes
FGC 2: Knowledge pertinent to a range of subject areas
FGC 3: Skills appropriate to a range of subject areas at the level of entry to the degree
FGC 4: Critical, creative and analytical thinking and effective problem solving for academic and real world contexts
FGC 5: The ability to work independently and collaboratively
FGC 6: Social and ethical responsibility
Content
CHEMISTRY
PHYSICS
Approaches to Teaching and Learning
There are four hours of class contact per week. Physical Sciences is composed of Physics and Chemistry. The chemistry component of the course is covered in Weeks 1 to 7 of the semester followed by the physics component which is covered in Weeks 8 to 13 or vice versa depending on the timetable.
The unit will involve teaching sessions involving explanation of concepts interspersed with student activities designed to practice skills and problem solving techniques. Students will be expected to prepare for classes by reading through relevant materials in textbook and handouts and completing tasks set in the previous lesson.
The unit also involves computer laboratory sessions where students will be involved in computer-based and online activities, as well as completing simulated experiments. These sessions are designed to give students an appropriate laboratory experience that will enable and enhance their involvement in 'full scale' laboratory experiments in Physics and Chemistry in Semester 2. These sessions will also allow the development of data collection and analysis skills.
Late Assignment Policy
Students will be penalised for the late submission of assignments. Refer to the Foundation Course Guide for details.
Review of Grades or Academic Rulings
For rules on how to apply for a review of grade, refer to the Foundation Course Guide.
Consultation
The teacher will be available for consultation from Week 2. Times will be advised in class and will also be displayed on the College noticeboard or at Reception.
Exam Timetable
The exam timetable will be displayed on the College noticeboard on Level 3 by Week 11.
Assessment
Types of assessment
In this unit, students will be assessed through formative and summative assessment.
Formative Assessment
Formative assessment items are used to provide feedback to students to assist with their progress and do not count towards final marks. The primary formative assessment is in the form of online homework assignments.
Summative Assessment
Summative assessment items count towards the final grade for this subject.
The weighting of the assessment items is indicated in the table below. The final grade will be determined based upon the weighting of all summative assessment items.
This unit may require students to submit their assessment items through SafeAssign.
Please refer to the Week 1 document for this unit.
Assessment name:
Online Quiz (4)
Description:
Formative. This assessment utilises QUT Blackboard's online question bank. Four homework tests will be set, two each for Physics and Chemistry
Relates to objectives:
1
Weight:
20%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
4,6,11,13
Assessment name:
Practical Experiments (4)
Description:
Summative. There are four pracs., two each for Physics and Chemistry
Relates to objectives:
1, 3.
Weight:
40%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Group
Due date:
3,6,10,12
Assessment name:
Final Exam (2)
Description:
Summative. There is one examination each for Physics and Chemistry.
Relates to objectives:
1,3.
Weight:
40%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Weeks 7,14
Academic Honesty
QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.
A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.
Resource materials
Texts
- Blackman, A. et al (2011). Chemistry 2nd edition. Milton, QLD: John Wiley & Sons.
- Briethaupt, J. 2010. Macmillan Foundations-Physics, 3rd Edition London: Macmillan Press Ltd.
References
- Zumdahl, S. & Zumdahl, S.A. 2000. Chemistry, 5th ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
- Kotz, J.C. & Treichel, P. 1999. Chemistry and Chemical Reactivity, 4th ed. Sauders.
Risk assessment statement
There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.
Last modified: 11-Oct-2012
