Module FOUD0287: PRACTICAL TECHNIQUES IN PHYSICS

Department: Foundation Year (Durham)

FOUD0287: PRACTICAL TECHNIQUES IN PHYSICS

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To develop confidence in a laboratory situation.
• To introduce a range of equipment.
• To develop observational and interpretive skills.
• To develop a problem solving approach.
• To develop scientific report-writing, data handling and critical evaluation develop confidence and ability in handling physics calculations.

Content

• Laboratory experiments and associated calculations covering the following subject areas:
• Investigation of circuits and resistors,
• Current/voltage for a metallic conductor,
• Reflection of light by plane mirror,
• Refraction of light by Perspex block,
• Snell’s Law,
• The visible spectrum,
• Investigation of a pendulum and g,
• Projectiles or movement down an inclined plane and consideration of statistical variation
• Considerations of friction,
• Terminal velocity of ball bearings,
• Polarization of light.

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of this module, a student will have a working knowledge and be able to explain:
• Using laboratory equipment to measure physical quantities (for example Current, Voltage, Time & Length)
• how to linearise data and plot a suitable graph, from which a gradient (and derived physical parameter) may be extracted
• and be aware of the limitations of the experimentall apparatus and technique, and the possible sources of error involve.

• By the end of this module the student will have acquired the skills to be able to:
• work confidently and effectively in a laboratory, with due attention to safety.
• relate observations and data to underlying theory.
• write a scientific report with critical evaluation.
• select and use basic physics equipment.
• carry out appropriate mathematical/physical calculations as required.

• By the end of the module students will be able to:
• communicate effectively in writing.
• be able to apply number both in the tackling of numerical problems and in the collecting, recording, interpreting and presenting of data.
• have improved their own learning and performance.
• be able to demonstrate problem solving skills.
• Assignment 1 will assess SS2, SS3, SS5, KS1, KS2, KS3, KS4
• Assignment 2 will assess SS2, SS3, SS5, KS1, KS2, KS3, KS4
• Lab Book will assess SS1, SS4, SS5, KS2, KS3, KS4

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Theory, initial concepts and techniques will be introduced during seminars and practicals/workshops.
• Much of the learning, understanding and consolidation will take place through the use of structured laboratory activities, groupwork and discussion during sessions and students’ own time.
• Knowledge, understanding and the ability to use and apply concepts will be assessed by two written lab reports and the student lab book.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Laboratory reports and exercises.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University