Syllabus

Thermodynamics: Mr. Joe Spotts

Our first high school physics block will focus mostly on translating our various, sometimes discordant experiences with heat related phenomena into rational descriptions, and from those descriptions infer general laws of nature. Laws of nature often include some math, but I will try to make it not too difficult. Participation in class discussions is much appreciated, as much of the work we will do will happen in class, as is diligent and thorough work in labs.

Some of the labs will contain things like boiling water and Bunsen burners so please be cautious, and close-toed shoes are strongly recommended.

Over the course of our studies we will try to think about the world like scientists, which will include a strong focus on well reasoned writing. For each lab or demonstration I specify in class, there will be a corresponding lab write-up, which should be handed into me at least once before the MLB so that I can offer tips and corrections. The MLB will be composed mostly of these labs and demonstrations, but there will also be an essay on the scientific method due at the end of the block, as well as a few essays throughout the block. A list of topics that should be covered, in labs or in other writings, is below. I tend to be optimistic in my syllabi, so the list below may change. I will carefully enunciate those changes.

Note to parents: In the past, students have largely ignored these corrections, and sometimes I have asked for them to revise large sections of their labs. If you want to bug your children about their homework, corrections on write ups would be a good place to start. I will also offer some class time to help them with their writing.

The block thermodynamics will not be limited exclusively to heat, but through our studies, we will move to atmospheric pressure and the laws that tie heat and gases together.

I will be available anytime by either phone (303) 881-5865 or my email is jjspottsfox@gmail.com. I am also setting up a blog for the class which is something of an experiment. I may use it often if I/we find it helpful, or perhaps very little. At least I will try to post all of my handouts and assignments on the blog.. The address is http://denverwaldorfthermodynamics.blogspot.com/ creative right?

Participation in class and labs 20%

Homework/Lab write-ups 20%

MLB’s 30%

Quizzes and Final Exam 30%

Introduction to heat

-Heat as a relative sensation

-Melting Ice

-Heat’s effect on other materials

-Heat as a temperature

-Kelvin, Fahrenheit and Celsius

Temperature and Pressure

-Atmospheric pressure

-The weight of the air

-The expansion of gases

-Pressure vs. Temperature graphs

-Absolute Zero

-The Gas Laws

Heat: Now we’re cooking (sorry)

-Specific Heat

-The Transmission of Heat

-Latent Heat

The Steam Engine

-Heat as a Source of Energy

-The Conservation of Energy

-Mechanical Energy and Heat