Success in College Physics Classes

How Students Can Succeed in a Calculus or Algebra Based Course

Aug 22, 2008

College or university physics courses are difficult for many students, but they can do well by working hard and having the right preparation.

Many college majors or degree programs require a sequence of either algebra or calculus based physics courses. Students often approach these classes nervously because they think they will not succeed. Many of these same students find that they can do well in physics.

These physics courses have mathematical prerequisites. Algebra based classes require familiarity with algebra and trigonometry. Calculus based classes usually require a semester of calculus as a prerequisite or a co-requisite. Mathematics is the language of physics. So students without the proper mathematical background find physics as difficult as if it were being taught in a foreign language.

Get the proper mathematical preparation before taking the physics class. Students should not simply pass the prerequisite math courses; they should thoroughly understand the mathematical concepts.

Few students can do well in physics without working very hard. Students who work three hours outside of class for every hour in class usually do well in their physics classes. This formula works for most other classes too. For college and anything else in life, working hard is a key to success.

Prepare for and Attend Class

As for all courses, attend class regularly. This applies to the lectures, labs, and any recitation sessions. There are legitimate reasons for missing class, including illness, major family or life events, and official school activities. In these cases, always notify the professor and make up all missed work. Professors are more likely to be lenient about legitimate absences for students who otherwise always attend class.

Prepare for all classes. Doing the reading assignments before class will make it easier to understand the class. Do any homework assignments and have them ready to turn in. After class do the reading again to insure complete understanding.

Do Homework Assignments

It is not possible to get in good physical shape by sitting on the couch watching an exercise video or by reading a book about running. One must actually do the exercise. Similarly it is not possible to learn physics by simply reading the book. One must also work physics problems. Do or attempt all assigned homework problems and as many other practice problems as possible. Learn by doing.

When doing homework or exam problems to be turned in and graded, having the right answer is not sufficient. Clearly show the starting principle or equation and all intermediate steps. Use words as well as equations to explain your reasoning. Most professors will give more generous partial credit to students who clearly show their work and explain their reasoning.

When completely stuck on a problem, get help. Use the professor's office hours. If necessary, get a tutor. Some colleges and universities supply free tutors. Physics majors and graduate students often offer tutoring services to earn extra money.

Understand Rather than Memorize

Physics is not about memorization or blindly plugging numbers into formulas. Students who try these strategies usually do poorly in physics.

Conceptually understand the major principles and how they apply to problems. Understand the physical meaning of the symbols in equations. Understand the physical situations for which the equations are applicable and not applicable. Students who achieve this conceptual understanding before doing their algebraic manipulations and numerical calculations are better able to solve difficult physics problems, especially problems that are completely different from previously seen examples.

The copyright of the article Success in College Physics Classes in Physics is owned by Paul A. Heckert. Permission to republish Success in College Physics Classes in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.