Download AST 220 Introduction to Astronomy

Last Revision: Fall 2014-2015
SYLLABUS
AST 220
4 Semester Credit Hours - A
I.
Introduction to Astronomy
6 Contact Hours
Course Description
This course covers the history of astronomy and the development of astronomical thought
leading to the birth of modern astronomy and its most recent development. Emphasis is
placed on the coverage of astronomical instruments and measuring technologies, the solar
system, the Milky Way galaxy, important extra galactic objects and cosmology.
Laboratory is required.
II.
Prerequisite or Co-requisite
None
III.
Course Textbook
Chaisson, Eric and McMillan, Steve (2013). Astronomy Today (8th ed.). Pearson.
IV.
Course Learning Outcomes
At the end of the course the student will:
A.
Discuss foundations of astronomy in relation to the birth of modern science.
B.
Discuss electromagnetic radiation.
C.
Analyze spectral lines to determine properties of objects.
D.
Describe types of telescopes and their uses.
E.
Discuss the formation and arrangement of our solar system.
F.
Describe the structure and properties of Earth.
G.
Discuss the orbital and physical properties of the Moon.
H.
Compare the properties, function and structure of the planets.
I.
List and describe the properties of the Sun.
J.
Compare types of stars and discuss the formation and death of stars.
K.
Describe characteristics of the Milky Way Galaxy and classify other types of
galaxies.
L.
Describe cosmic evolution and theories related to the formation of the universe.
V.
Outline of Course Topics
A.
B.
C.
D.
The foundations of astronomy & birth of modern science
Radiation and spectroscopy
Telescopes the tools of astronomy
Our Solar System
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
VI.
Methods of Instruction
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
VII.
The Earth
The Moon
The Planets
The Sun: Our Parent Star
Measuring the Stars
Star Formation and Evolution
Stellar Explosions
Galaxies and Cosmology
Life in the Universe: Are we alone?
Lectures
On-campus laboratory
Virtual Laboratory
Online discussion
Class discussion
Blackboard online
Evaluation and Assessment
Procedures for Assessment of Student Achievement
A.
Online examinations
B.
Online quizzes
C.
Laboratory work
D.
Homework and online exercises
E.
Comprehensive final (on campus)
F.
A laboratory grade will be assigned based on successful completion of the
assigned experiments. The lab grade will be equivalent to a regular test.
G.
Grades will be given based upon A = 90 – 100%, B = 80 – 89%, C = 70 – 79%, D
= 60 – 69%, and F = below 60%.
VIII. Attendance
Students are expected to attend all classes for which they are registered. Students who are
unable to attend class regularly, regardless of the reason or circumstance, should
withdraw from that class before poor attendance interferes with the student’s ability to
achieve the objectives required in the course. Withdrawal from class can affect eligibility
for federal financial aid.
IX.
Statement on Discrimination/Harassment
NACC and the Alabama State Board of Education are committed to providing both
employment and educational environments free of harassment or discrimination related to
an individual’s race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, or disability. Such
harassment is a violation of State Board of Education policy. Any practice or behavior
that constitutes harassment or discrimination will not be tolerated.
X.
Statement of Adherence to ADA Guidelines
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act of
1990 state that qualified students with disabilities who meet the essential functions and
academic requirements are entitled to reasonable accommodations. It is the student’s
responsibility to provide appropriate disability documentation to the College.