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Master Course Outline
PPO 100
Introduction to Power Generation
Course Description: An introductory study of basic electricity. This study will include principles of
electron movement, magnetism, insulators, conductors, generators, transformers, single phase, three
phase, lighting, energy efficiency, and power calculations including the cost of operating appliances. The
course is intended for the “non-engineering” student who has a desire to learn how electricity is
generated and distributed to the customer. It will consist of lecture, multimedia presentations, video,
and hands-on projects. 5 lecture hours. Vocational program course. May be used as a general elective
for the AA degree.
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Placement in READ 090, ENGL 060, and MATH 070 or concurrent enrollment in MATH
060; or instructor permission.
Recommended Preparation: None
Co-requisites: Concurrent enrollment in PPO 150 and PPO 151
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion students should be able to:
Explain magnetic laws of attraction and repulsion
Explain the difference between insulators and conductors
Using Watt's Law solve for Amps, Volts, and Watts
Calculate energy draw from horsepower
Determine the amount of energy consumed by an appliance
Calculate the cost of energy consumed by an appliance
Explain magnetic fields and induction
Determine the primary and secondary voltages from a transformer
Build and demonstrate a simple electric motor
Explain the difference between AC and DC current
Calculate energy draw on appliances using 3-phase power
Write a report on the accomplishments of Thomas Edison
Explain the power grid including transmission and distribution
Demonstrate a simple circuit
Explain the concept of load on the transmission grid
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Course Resources/Textbooks/Website: No book required. Handouts will be given in electronic format
which you will need to print.
W Day, the final day to officially withdraw from a course, is the Thursday of the seventh week (Thursday
of the fourth week for summer quarter). Students who do not withdraw by that date will receive the
grades they have earned, regardless of whether they are attending the course or completing the work.
Students who are considering withdrawal are strongly advised to consult with the instructor, advisor and
financial aid prior to withdrawing. The only withdrawals allowed after W Day are complete withdrawals
from all courses.
Academic Integrity: All forms of cheating, falsification, and plagiarism are against the rules of this course
and of Grays Harbor College. Students who are unsure what constitutes academic dishonesty are
responsible for asking the instructor for clarification. Instances of intentional academic dishonesty will
be dealt with severely.
Disabilities: Students who have documented disabilities that require accommodations in compliance
with the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact the Disability Support Services coordinator as
well as the instructor of the course in order to ensure that together we create an optimal environment
for educational achievement.
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