Outline

Overview

This unit of study will focus on the principles governing the state of motion or rest of bodies under the influence of applied force and torque, according to classical mechanics. The course aims to teach students the fundamental principles of the kinematics and kinetics of systems of particles, rigid bodies, planar mechanisms and three-dimensional mechanisms, covering topics including kinematics in various coordinate systems, Newton's laws of motion, work and energy principles, impulse and momentum (linear and angular), gyroscopic motion and vibration. Students will develop skills in analysing and modelling dynamical systems, using both analytical methods and computer-based solutions. Students will develop skills in approximating the dynamic behaviour of real systems in engineering applications and an appreciation and understanding of the effect of approximations in the development and design of systems in real-world engineering tasks.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	AMME5500
Assumed knowledge ?	University level Maths and Physics, especially covering the area of Mechanics, and familiarity with the Python programming environment
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Matthew Cleary, m.cleary@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final exam Final Exam. Hurdle task, set at 40%	50%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Weekly tutorial problems Work in small groups. Marked off by tutors	5%	Multiple weeks	2 hr per week during allocated tutorial	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Laboratory Lab exercise and oral quiz.	5%	Multiple weeks	2 hrs	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Major Assignment Prospectus Form groups and plan Major Project including division of group member responsibilities This is an individual submission.	2%	Week 03 Due date: 13 Mar 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 17 Mar 2026	2 hr	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person written or creative task	Quiz 1 problem solving, analysis, calculation	10%	Week 05 Due date: 23 Mar 2026 at 09:00 Closing date: 23 Mar 2026	1 hour	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person written or creative task	Quiz 2 problem solving, analysis, calculation	10%	Week 10 Due date: 04 May 2026 at 09:00 Closing date: 04 May 2026	1 hour	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Major Assignment problem solving, analysis, calculation, computer-based analysis and report You will be required to review your performance and that of your team members using SPARKPLUS. Individual marks for group assessments will be determined using these reviews	18%	Week 13 Due date: 29 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 08 Jun 2026	Average student 12 hours	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Assessment summary

Tutorials: Tutorials will run weeks 1-12. Problems are solved collaboratively and individual mark is awarded.
Quizzes: Quizzes will test Modules 1, 2 and 3.
Major Assignment: This will involve student groups performing computational modelling of a dynamic system.
Laboratory: The laboratory is worth 5%, and is assessed based on an oral quiz during the session. Online materials are provided incuding a Canvas module to work through containing reading material and video demonstrations.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Exceptional standard of work completed in meeting course learning outcomes.
Distinction	75 - 84	Very good standard of work completed in meeting course learning outcomes.
Credit	65 - 74	Good standard of work completed in meeting course learning outcomes.
Pass	50 - 64	Acceptable standard of work completed in meeting course learning outcomes.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

As per university policy.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Multiple weeks	An average student should spent a total of 65 hours of independent study over the semester, including work on assessment tasks.	Self-directed learning (65 hr)
	Weeks 1,2,3. Module 1: Dynamics of point-mass systems. Pre-recorded online lectures and worked examples each week. Compulsory seminar attendance in Week 3 for practical demonstrations.	Lecture (8 hr)
	Weeks 1,2,3. Module 1: Dynamics of point-mass systems. Tutorial questions and submission	Tutorial (6 hr)
	Weeks 5,6. Module 2: Introduction to vibration. Pre-recorded online lectures and worked examples each week. Compulsory seminar attendance in Week 6 for practical demonstrations.	Lecture (6 hr)
	Weeks 5,6. Module 2: Introduction to vibration. Tutorial questions and submission.	Tutorial (4 hr)
	Weeks 8,9,11,12. Module 3: Dynamics of rigid body systems. Pre-recorded online lectures and worked examples each week. Compulsory seminar attendance in Week 11 for practical demonstrations. Three-dimensional systems content is recommended for space major and other interested students, but is not examinable.	Lecture (10 hr)
	Weeks 8,9,11,12. Module 3: Dynamics of rigid body systems. Tutorial questions and submission.	Tutorial (8 hr)
	Weeks 4,7,10: Module 4: Computational dynamics. Pre-recorded online lectures and worked examples each week. Compulsory seminar attendance in Weeks 4,7,10 for practical coding workshop.	Lecture (12 hr)
	Weeks 4,7,10: Module 4: Computational dynamics. Compulsory seminar/workshop.	Seminar (6 hr)
	Single degree of freedom vibration practical with oral quiz. Attend one allocated session during semester	Practical (1.5 hr)
Week 13	Week 13. Course Review. Pre-recorded online lecture.	Lecture (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance: Attendance at all designated tutorial and laboratory sessions in expected. Non-attendance will result in a mark of zero for those assessment items.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

James L. Meriam, L. G. Kraige, J. N. Bolton, Engineering Mechanics: Dynamics, 9th Australia & New Zealand Edition

ISBN: 978‐1119‐39098‐5

Available as an e-text: https://www.wileydirect.com.au/blog/buy/engineering-mechanics-dynamics-si-version-australia-new-zealand-edition/

The book is essential. The course follows the text book closely. Example and tutorial problems are taken from it.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. derive and apply the kinematic relationships for point-mass systems in various coordinate systems, and apply and solve Newton’s laws of motion linking force inputs and motion outputs
LO2. apply the principles of work and energy, impulse and momentum to predict the motion of point-mass systems, including conservative, non-conservative and impact forces
LO3. develop equations of motion and their solutions for free and forced response single-degree-of-freedom vibrating systems, distinguishing between undamped and damped cases
LO4. derive and apply the kinematic relationships for planar motion of rigid bodies and multi-component systems
LO5. formulate and solve the kinetic equations for the planar dynamics of multi-component rigid-body systems, linking force inputs and motion outputs
LO6. develop and implement computational models to numerically integrate the equations of motion for point-mass and complex 2D dynamic systems, perform symbolic manipulation of governing equations, and analyse constrained multi-body systems using appropriate numerical and symbolic techniques
LO7. formulate the general 3D kinematics and kinetics of rigid bodies to analyse the spatial motion of single or multi-component rigid bodies (non-compulsory module for advanced / space students)
LO8. solve problems and communicate results for elementary, complex and open-ended engineering dynamics questions in the form of mathematical analysis and written reporting

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Student feedback is an important part of the continual development and refinement of AMME2500/9500. Over the past two years we have made the following changes: 1. Theory and worked examples is being presented through pre-recorded lectures which students can watch during the allocate time or at another time of their choosing 2. The computational dynamics module is presented in three stages over the whole semester, giving students longer to prepare the major assignment 3. The major assignment is now more open ended and students will be rewarded for novelty and creativity 4. Sparkplus will be used for the major assignment 5. To cater for the increased class size, the laboratory session will be condensed to 1.5 hours with an oral quiz and no written report. This is supplemented by demonstrations during the lectorials 6. An advanced engineering dynamics applications module has been added.

Additional information

Please refer to the Canvas site for additional course information including teaching staff details, online resources etc.

Self and peer review of team contribution: All group assessments require you to review your performance and that of your team members using SPARKPLUS. Individual marks for group assessments will be determined using these reviews

Additional costs

There are no additional costs for this unit.

Work, health and safety

This unit of study involves laboratory activities: please refer to the Canvas site and your lab demonstrator for safety requirements while working in the lab.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

AMME9500: Engineering Dynamics

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links