Textbook

(We will be using iclickers in class)

1) Tutorials in Introductory Physics (a two-book set) by McDermott and Shaffer (Special CU edition). This text is also used for Phys1120 so do not throw it away at the end of the semester. Purchase the "Tutorials in Introductory Physics" bundled with Mastering Physics at the CU bookstore, not online or elsewhere, because we use a special CU edition that is only available through our bookstore. NOTE: the bundle gives access to our required Mastering Physics homework system. Included within this Mastering Physics bundle you will also get free access to the textbook (#2 below) Essential University Physics. So, the bundle is all you have to get, plus an iclicker)

But if you prefer a paper version of the textbook, you can get that at the bookstore too - that's:
2) Essential University Physics, any edition. Richard Wolfson. (This one is not custom, so if you find a better deal for a physical version online that's fine with us. But please note - the most recent version in etext form is automatically included with the mandatory bundle above!) It's a good book, and it's a lightweight (paperback) version. We will use Volume 1 in Phys 1110, Phys 1120 will continue on to Volume 2.

There will also be a couple of copies on 2-hr reserve in the Gemmill Library of Engineering, Mathematics & Physics (located in the math building, 2 buildings East of Duane)

A physical textbook can be a really valuable resource, as it contains many worked out example problems, detailed explanations, and practice problems. However, we will also do our best to present material you are responsible for in class, in recitation, homework, and lecture notes.

Required Equipment: One iClicker “clicker”, an electronic transmitter used for audience feedback during lecture. Purchase your iClicker at the CU bookstore and register your clicker one mycuinfo. You should only have to register your clicker once, on mycuinfo, for all classes. If you ever lose a clicker and get a new one, be sure to re-register You cannot share a clicker with another student registered for Phys 1110 (even if they are in another lecture section).

*Optional/alternative * --Thinkwell Physics 1, S. Pollock (this is a multimedia text, with lots of 10-minute mini-lectures and supplementary notes/animations/examples) Nice if you prefer to watch than read. This product is $25 (and phys1110 students who have tried it have generally reported to us that it was worth it). It could be a substitute for Wolfson if you want, or a nice supplement. (Unfortunately, the library does not have a copy of this. If you purchase it at the bookstore, you get access to streaming video online for the semester).

Instructions to purchase Thinkwell, if you are interested:

1) Go the http://www.thinkwell.com and click on "Register" in the upper right or select "Click Here to Register or Purchase"

2) Under "Classroom and Distance Learning" (ignore the Subscription Code box, leave it blank).

select state = Colorado,
select school = University of Colorado - Boulder,
select course = General Physics 1-Fall 2015 - Steven Pollock
Click on Register without subscription code and make sure "Classroom Registration" is selected.
This should bring up the $25 price. This product is usually $125 dollars, but we got a special deal. If you see the $125 price, then stop! don't pay! Go back to the beginning and repeat the steps till you see the $25 price, or ask for help.

Continue with instructions.

Thinkwell website

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I believe that a physics textbook must be approached with the correct expectation. Most people find it challenging to read a physics textbook and completely understand the material from the textbook alone. Even experts in physics do not learn the material simply by reading a book, we still have to engage with the material by working out problems, discussing with colleagues, and seeking out additional resources. Consider the textbook as one of many resources at your disposal.