Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	Fundamental Science - Physics Concepts 1
Module Code	PS501
School	School of Physical Sciences
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: Paul Van Kampen Semester 2: Paul Van Kampen Autumn: Paul Van Kampen
Module Teacher	Paul Van Kampen
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

Teaching and Learning of mechanics for in-service science teachers

Learning Outcomes

1. Apply the concepts of mechanics to unseen qualitative and quantitative questions
2. Use guided inquiry in teaching mechanics at Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate level
3. To identify and solve conceptual problems students frequently encounter, especially in the area of mechanics
4. Reflect on their learning of mechanics

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Tutorial	24	Often with short introductory lecture
Assignment	24	Practice of skills acquired in tutorial
Assignment	24	Essay
Lecture	30	No Description
Independent learning	23	No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Underpinnings.
Area and volume, ratio reasoning, graphical and arithmetical reasoning, scaling, interpretation of algebraic statements, language issues.

Kinematics.
location and instances versus space and time intervals, average an instantaneous velocity, acceleration, graphical interpretation, kinestetics.

Dynamics.
operational definitions of Newton's Laws, gravitational and inertial mass, free-body diagrams, friction.

Mechanics topics.
Forces, Hooke's Law, pressure, density, equilibrium.

Momentum and energy.
heat and temperature, impulse and momentum, work and kinetic energy, conservation of energy and momentum.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	50%	Examination Weight	50%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Essay	n/a	20%	Week 9
In Class Test	n/a	30%	Week 8

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1

Indicative Reading List