Download A Course Outline Template [blank]

GROSSMONT COLLEGE
Proposed Course Outline
TYPE SUBJECT, NUMBER AND TITLE HERE
1.
Course Number
SCI 120
Course Title
Science and Human Issues
2.
Prerequisites Pass grade in Math 090 or equivalent
Semester Units
4
Total Hours per Semester
3 hrs lecture 3 hrs lab/wk
Corequisite
Recommended Preparation
3.
Catalog Description
An integrated introduction to scientific method and science content relevant to understanding
both how science works and how science is relevant to many of the major world issues we face
today. Questions to be investigated include the origin of life, energy and energy
conservation and environmental issues. Because this is an integrated science course, content
will be taken from biology, ecology, chemistry, and physics. Science content will include
introductions to evolution, ecology, cellular design, chemical reactions and chemical bonding,
energy conversions, thermodynamics and motion. Laboratory work will include projects and
investigative studies.
4.
Course Objectives
The student will:
a. Apply the scientific method to ask and answer a question about the natural world.
b. Analyze the important scientific explanations for how life formed and evolved.
c. Create solutions to the human need for energy.
d. Evaluate the science underlying ecological and environmental issues on our planet.
e. Connect scientific approaches of physics, chemistry and biology to answering questions.
f. Find scientific solutions to human social problems using physics, chemistry and biology.
5.
Instructional Facilities
Regular “smart” classroom for the lecture. A chemistry lab classroom for the laboratory
6.
Special Materials Required of Student
none
7.
Course Content
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
Scientific methodology: observation, hypothesis, experiment, analysis, predicted consequences
Force, motion, momentum and energy.
Heat, energy, power, energy transfer and conservation of energy
First and second law of thermodynamics
Basic cellular metabolism and photosynthesis
Ecology and ecosystems
Properties of matter; elements, compounds, mixtures and solutions
Electron configurations, the periodic table and periodic trends
Ionic and covalent bonding
j.
k.
l.
m.
n.
o.
8.
Intermolecular forces and solubility
Classes of biomolecules; structure and function.
DNA and the genetic code
Acid/base and oxidation/reduction reactions and their importance in water pollution.
Atmospheric chemistry and air pollution
What is life? Organism, system, organ, tissue, cells, organelles and their functions.
Method of Instruction
a. Lecture
b. Guided group inquiry work
c. Discussion
9.
Methods of Evaluating Student Performance
a. Homework
b. Quizzes
c. Laboratory assignments and projects
c. Exams
d. Assignment applying the scientific method to a real question.
e. Written Final Exam
10. Outside Class Assignments
a. Homework assignments
b. Water ecology or other project.
11. Texts
a.
b.
Required Text(s):
Trefil, James and Hazen, Robert, The Sciences: An Integrated Approach, 5th edn, John Wiley and
sons, 2007, Hoboken, New Jersey.
Supplementary texts and workbooks: none
Date approved by the Governing Board: