Course Syllabus
Tacoma Community College
Astronomy 115 (Stars and Galaxies) Spring Quarter
2015
Instructor: Mr. Peter Baker
Office: Phone: 566-5060 (messages)
Mail Box: Building 15
E- mail: pbaker@tacomacc.edu
Office: Bld. 15, Room 332
Office Hours: My office hours will be one and a quarter hours following the Wednesday
class (12:30 to 1:45 pm)
Classes
Classes are held on the Tacoma Campus in building 10 room 1 and labs in
building 15 room 107.
First day of class: March 30 2015
Last day of class: June 3/2015
Final Exam: June 11/2015
Course prerequisite:
Completion of ENGL-095 with a grade of "C" or higher; completion of MATH-090
with a "C" or higher; or equivalent assessment in these areas.
Canvas
In Canvas (Modules), you will first find an introductory video (How to Study
efficiently) which is optional to be viewed outside of class periods.
Under “Modules,” you will find sections labeled from Unit 1 to Unit 13 for the
course of study. These 13 unit modules contain the information you will need
to complete your lessons each week. Lectures for each unit will be uploaded
right before each lecture for further reference and study. If you receive a
message that the course content has been changed this is just the lecture for
that day being uploaded into Canvas.
Assignment Due Dates are in Canvas under: Assignments and Modules, Labs and
Quizzes
Labs are in Canvas under Modules —they are expected to be completed.
Quizzes are in Canvas under Modules week (Units 1 -10) and they are expected to be
completed.
Homework is in Canvas under Modules (Units 1 -13) and they is expected to be
completed.
Lectures : for each unit (1-13)
This syllabus and schedule are subject to change in the event of extenuating
circumstances. If you are absent from class, it is your responsibility to check
for announcements made while you were absent.
Text:
There is no required text
There are two highly recommended Texts that are available: The first is “The Cosmic
Perspective” by Bennett, Donahue, Schneider, and Voit; (Pearson/Addison-Wesley). The
second is “The Essential Cosmic Perspective” by Bennett, Donahue, Schneider, and
Voit; (Pearson/Addison-Wesley). Either of these texts cover the material presented in
this class. Used copies are very inexpensive (check on line, e.g. Amazon)
Course Description:
Study of the structure and composition of the universe including stars and
galaxies. Topics discussed include the theories of the formation of stars, galaxies,
and the universe; the nature of light and telescopes; the characteristics of the
Sun; the cycle of star formation, life and death; the types of stars and galaxies;
and the application of physical principles to making astronomical measurements.
Laboratory included.
Degree
Learning
Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the
degree, the student will be able to:
1. Core of Knowledge (COK)
Demonstrate a basic
knowledge of each of the
distribution areas (Written
Communication,
Humanities, Quantitative
Skills, Natural Sciences
and Socaial Sciences; or, as
applicable, specific
professional/technical
programs), integrate
knowledge across
disciplines, and apply this
knowledge to academic,
occupational, civic and
personal endeavors.
2. Communication (COM)
Listen, speak, read, and
write effectively and use
nonverbal and
technological means to
make connections between
self and others.
3. Critical Thinking and
Problem Solving (CRT)
Compare, analyze, and
evaluate information and
ideas, and use sound
thinking skills to solve
problems.
4. Information and
Information Technology
(IIT)
Locate, evaluate, retrieve,
and ethically use relevant
and current information of
appropriate authority for
both academic and
personal applications.
5. Living and Working
Cooperatively / Respecting
Differences (LWC)
Respectfully acknowledge
diverse points of view, and
draw upon the knowledge
and experience of others to
collaborate in a
multicultural and complex
world.
6. Responsibility & Ethics
(RES)
Demonstrate and
understanding of what
constitutes responsible and
ethical behavior toward
individuals, the
community, and the
environment.
Program
Learning
Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the
program, the student will be able
to:
1. Evaluate information
scientifically in the context
of his/her own life (COK,
COM, CRT, IIT, RES).
2. Explain the importance of
observation and hypothesis
testing in the scientific
process, and distinguish
between the scientific
process and other human
endeavors (COK, COM,
CRT).
3. Communicate the primary
principles and processes
underlying at least one
natural system (for
example: atoms and
molecules, cells and
organisms, the oceans and
atmosphere, the solid
earth, or the
cosmos) (COK, COM,
CRT).
4. Perform and effectively
communicate the results of
scientific investigations,
and explain how research
is done in science (COK,
COM, CRT, IIT, LWC).
5. Demonstrate the safe and
proper use of scientific
instrumentation,
measuring devices,
chemical reagents, media,
and/or other tools of
science in a laboratory or
field setting relevant to
specific disciplines of
science (COK, COM, CRT,
IIT, LWC).
Course
Learning
Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the
course, the student will be able to:
1. Explain the composition,
structure, behavior, and
the theories of the origins
of the universe.
PLO: 3, 4
2. Explain the nature of light,
light spectra, and the
Doppler effect, and how
light is measured to enable
us to understand the
universe.
PLO: 1, 3
3. Apply basic physical
concepts including motion,
energy, and gravity to
astronomy.
PLO: 1, 3
4. Describe the different types
of telescopes used for
different regions of the
electromagnetic spectrum
and the limitations of using
telescopes for astronomical
observations.
PLO: 3
5. Describe the characteristics
of the Sun including its
theory of formation,
structure, composition,
activity, temperature,
magnetic field, and the
process of light
production.
PLO: 1, 3
6. Explain the current
theories of star formation
and the life cycle of a star.
PLO: 3
7. Classify the properties of
stars including star types
and the HertzprungRussell Diagram.
PLO: 3
8. Classify the different types
and outcomes of star death
including the mass
dependence.
PLO: 3
9. Describe the structure and
composition of galaxies
including the current
theories of galaxy
formation and types of
galaxies.
PLO: 3
10. Summarize the process of
science as it is applied to
astronomy.
PLO: 1, 2
11. Analyze astronomical data
and use it to draw scientific
conclusions.
PLO: 3, 4, 5
12. Gather and critically
evaluate experimental
evidence and draw
appropriate conclusions
from observations and
empirical data.
PLO: 1, 2, 4, 5
Assignment Dates
Assignment due dates, along with their grade point value, are given in the Modules
and Assignment tab in which they appear in Canvas.
Homework
The homework is done in Canvas and automatically scored when you finish. The points
for homework are added into the total points a student has accumulated from labs, field
trips and quizzes. In this system, homework that is assigned points does count in a
student’s grade. Homework for a particular week must be submitted one week after
released (see due dates). Home work will not be counted after due date. The
homework scores are automatically added into the total grade.
Quizzes:
A quiz will be given for each Unit, and consist of 25 questions each worth five points
per question for a total of 125 points per quiz. The quizzes will be held at the
beginning of the Tuesday’s lab period using the lab computers to
access Canvas where the quiz will reside. Since these are "closed book" quizzes it is
highly recommended that you review the lecture material and notes prior to taking
the quiz. No books, electronic devices or web access is permitted to be used.
The lowest two quiz scores (excluding the final) is thrown out at the end of the term.
Any missed quiz may be counted as a “throw out.” “Throw out” means that the
points for that quiz will not be added into the total possible nor added to the
student’s total.
The final exam will be an on-campus on June 11th 11:30 to 1:30 in building 15 room
107, (Computer lab) and is a proctored comprehensive closed book test with no
make-up. No electronic devices or web access are permitted to be used.
Field Trip
A field trip is required for the course. The Tacoma Astronomical Society (TAS)
conducts free public lecture/viewings on selected Saturday evenings at the
Steilacoom campus of Pierce College. Signs are posted as you enter the college from
Farwest Drive to direct you to the Rainer Building off the North Parking Lot. The
evening usually consists of a presentation/lecture followed by a time where they set
up telescopes in the parking lot, and you are welcome to come and view. If the
weather is too cloudy a presentation is given in the Science Dome Planetarium.
Students are required to attend one of these sessions and view at least four space
objects or the Planetarium Presentation. Failure to attend will result in the deduction
of 100 points. A schedule of viewing nights and times is on the Tacoma
Astronomical Society web site: www.tas-online.org (Links to an external site.) and a
form to have the TAS members sign are at the end of this syllabus. The completed
form must be handed into me in person before finals week. (see below)
Grading
A point system is used for grading: quiz questions have a possible 5 points per problem;
homework and labs assignments are labeled giving you the points for each part. Your
grade is determined by dividing your points by the total possible points. Typically, a quiz
will be worth 125 points; and the final about 400 points.
The student’s total points are divided by the “standard” (the number of possible points)
which determines the student’s percentage. The letter grade is determined from the
following chart:
94% - 100%A
90% - 93% A87% - 89% B+
83% - 86% B
80% - 82% B 77% - 79% C+
73% - 76% C
70% - 72% C67% - 69% D+
60% - 66% D
Below 60% E
Withdrawals: While faculty permission is not required, a completed add/drop form
must be submitted to Registration and Records to complete drops from the 11th
instructional day through the 55th calendar day of the quarter" "The instructor must
sign the form or [send] an e-mail [to Registration] acknowledging the withdrawal. If
the instructor is not available, a signature from a full-time advisor in the Advising
Center is an acceptable substitute.
Withdrawal dates are available
at http://www.tacomacc.edu/areasofstudy/academiccalendar/
While faculty permission is not required, a completed add/drop form must be
submitted to Registration and Records to complete drops from the 11th instructional
day through the 55th calendar day of the quarter” “The instructor must sign the form
or [send] an e-mail [to Registration] acknowledging the withdrawal. If the instructor is
not available, a signature from a full-time advisor in the Advising Center is an
acceptable substitute. Incomplete: This will only be assigned under extreme circumstances. In
addition, the student must have completed a sufficient amount of the course and have a passing
grade. An agreement will be written up which contains the specific requirements to be completed
and the time allowed for completion.
Academic Dishonesty:
TCC Students are expected to be honest and forthright in their academic endeavors.
Academic dishonesty is inconsistent with the values and mission of Tacoma
Community College. Cheating, plagiarism, and other forms of academic dishonesty
are violations of the Code of Student Conduct. Sanctions for acts of academic
dishonesty committed in this course are as follows: As stated in the TCC Catalog,
‘Students are expected to be honest and forthright in their academic endeavors.
Cheating, plagiarism, fabrication or other forms of academic dishonesty corrupt the
learning process and threaten the educational environment for all students.(pg. 33) In
this course, sanctions for academic dishonesty will be as follows:
Etiquette for Classroom Dispute Resolution/Student Conduct:
Admission to Tacoma Community College carries with it the expectation that the
student will conduct himself/herself as a responsible member of the academic
community and observe the principles of mutual respect, personal and academic
integrity and civility. The Code of Student Conduct establishes rules governing
academic and social conduct of students, including due process rights. Violations of
the Code may result in dismissal from class for the day and/or referral to the Student
Conduct Administrator for sanctions.
In class protocol:
The classes are held in building 10 room 1. No behavior that disrupts the ability of the
teacher to present the lecture or other students to participate in the learning process will
be allowed. There will be a brief break (10 min) at the end of the first hour of the lecture
classes with prompt return to the class room at the end of the break required.
Accommodations: Students with Disabilities: If you need auxiliary aids or services
due to a disability, please contact the Access Services office in Building 7 (253-5665328). Accommodations are not retroactive; please act promptly to make sure your
letter of accommodation is in place.
Students with Special Needs: All students are responsible for all requirements of the
class, but the way they meet these requirements may vary. If you need specific
auxiliary aids or services due to a disability, please contact the Access Services office
in Building 7 (253-566-5328). They will require you to present formal, written
documentation of your disability from an appropriate professional. When this step has
been completed, arrangements will be made for you to receive reasonable auxiliary
aids or services. The disability accommodation documentation prepared by Access
Services must be given to me before the accommodation is needed so that appropriate
arrangements can be made.
Concerns and complaints: If you have questions or concerns about this class or me, please
come to talk with me about your concerns during my office hours. If we are unable to resolve
your concerns, you may talk next with the Chair of the Department, Katie Gulliford in 15335. The Chair can assist with information about additional steps, if needed.
Final Grade Grievance: Students who believe they have received a final course
grade that has been awarded improperly or in an arbitrary or capricious manner may
grieve or appeal the grade. Details of the process are located on the TCC Portal at
:https://my.tacomacc.edu/uPortal/p/StudentForms.ctf9/max/render.uP?pCm=view&pP
_NSHistoryParam=21426%2C21435%2C21435%2C26224&pP_struts.portlet.action=
%2Fview%2Findex&pP_ticket=ST-215398-bcm1AKn0zYfxmqTwgrVmportalsvr2.tccnet.edu
Labs for Astro 115 Spring 2015
Following is a list of labs that you will be doing this term. These labs are computer
simulations that help your understand what astronomers actually do. There is a
lecture with each lab that explains the lab and will be given the first part (~15 min.) of
each lab session.
The labs are available through Canvas and are done on computers in the computer
lab in building 15 room 107 during the scheduled lab period. Visual instructions for
each lab are furnished, and the data sheets (if needed) do the calculations for you.
Note that some of the Labs only run on Windows (not Mac) computers.
The labs have several parts: a lecture giving background for the lab, the
lab S/W program to download (the link in the weekly Lab modules), visual instructions,
and the data sheet (which are to be turned into the drop box for credit) and/ or Quizzes
for that lab.
Lab 1 Image Processing
Purpose: This NASA exercise is designed to give students experience in
image processing. The images are taken with three filters and are
combined to make a color image.
Lab 2 Basic Coordinates Systems
Purpose: This NASA exercise is designed to learn how the terrestrial
coordinates and the celestial equatorial coordinate system are similar and
how they are used in astronomy.
Lab 3 NAAP: Hydrogen Energy Levels
Purpose: The NAAP Hydrogen Energy Levels Lab introduces the concept
of how quantum mechanics and light relate with respect to the Hydrogen
atom. The Energy Levels simulator allows dynamic interaction with a Bohr
model version of a single Hydrogen atom. The Thermal Distribution
histogram gives a temperature dependent plot of occupied states for many,
many atoms.
Lab 4: The HR Diagram
Purpose: The NAAP HR Diagram Lab explores the Hertzsprung-Russell
diagram and those areas necessary to understand the diagram such as
(but not limited to) the different kinds of spectrum, spectral classification,
and luminosity class. In short, this module provides a fairly in-depth
tutorial in reading HR diagrams.
Lab 5 NAAP: Eclipsing Binary Stars
Purpose: The NAAP Eclipsing Binary Stars Lab demonstrates how
information about stars which cannot be directly observed can be inferred
from a special class of binary stars – eclipsing binaries.
Lab 6: The Hubble Red Shift Distance Relation (CLEA)
Purpose: Purpose: To illustrate how the velocities of galaxies are
measured using a photon-counting spectrograph. To show how this
information, along with estimates of galaxy distances (from their integrated
apparent magnitudes) yields the classic Hubble redshift- distance relation.
To determine the value of the Hubble parameter and the expansion age of
the universe.
Lab 7: The Large Scale Structure of the Universe (CLEA)
Purpose: To understand how astronomers use the redshift-distance
relation to map out the cosmic structure of the galaxies. To discover how
the galaxies in the vicinity of the Milky Way are distributed in space and to
understand how astronomers work together to collect data on many
objects.
Astronomy Web Sites of Interest
http://www.spaceweather.com (Links to an external site.) This NASA site gives information about the Sun
and the effect it has on Earth. It predicts aurora, gives data on near-Earth Asteroids and gives Sun Spot
counts and links to many other sites.
http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/astropix.html (Links to an external
site.) This is the NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Daysite. Every day
there is a new picture, and all the previous pictures are listed. Many use
this site as their default site.
http://www.nasa.gov/news/highlights/index.html (Links to an external site.) The official NASA site for
news and information.
http://home-1.worldonline.nl/~veenen/terragen/mars/mars.html (Links to an external site.) This contains
some of the best Mars pictures. Kees Veenenbos is a Dutch graphic artist who has taken NASA data
and added perspective to make great pictures of Mars. He has added water to some of the pictures to
show how Mars would look with water.
http://www.lpl.arizona.edu/impacteffects/ (Links to an external site.) The Earth Impact Effects Program.
This is a fun site that gives you the results when Earth is impacted with different-sized objects traveling
at various speeds. You choose the size, speed and your location and then check to see if you lived.
http://www.stsci.edu/hst/ (Links to an external site.) This is the Hubble telescope site. You can look at
Hubble pictures and find out the status of the telescope.
http://www.ras.org.uk/
The site for the Royal Astronomical Society (one of the oldest astronomical
society in the world) located in London England.
Astronomy Field Trip to Tacoma Astronomical Society
Below are some guide lines for you when you go to the TAS Public Nights
Double check the times! The times and calendar are printed at the top of the
schedule. We have frequently had folk show up as we are packing up to leave and we
don't wish to disappoint anyone.
Dress for cold weather. Even in the summer the evenings can get cold. Make sure
they bring extra coats, hats and gloves for a better experience. You will be able to stay
out longer, your eyes will adapt better and you will see more objects!
Remember you are mixing with the public and younger viewers. Barging in late, playing
games on your phones during the presentation, jumping in line to see one object then
turning on a white light to get your signature before jumping in your car (to also blind
everyone with your headlights) degrades the experience for others. All the TAS
members are there as volunteers please treat them and your fellow event fellows with
respect.
Feel free to ask questions around the telescopes. All the volunteers are there because
they love astronomy and are happy to share their passion. Feel free to ask questions
about their scopes, what is available to see that evening, ask for details about the object
your are looking at or any astronomy questions you have itching in your brain. We will
find someone who can answer them!
Don't give up just because there are a few clouds! We can often still find a few objects
in the sucker-holes and if the Moon is out we can often observe her through thin
clouds. We can also move back inside and talk about astronomy or gear. Talk to your
faculty member about alternatives to objects for cloudy nights.
Astronomy Field Trip Sign-off Sheet
Each student is required to go to at least one Saturday evening “public night” at Pierce
College sponsored by the Tacoma Astronomical Society (TAS). The dates and times for
the public nights are given on the student assignment calendar. Telescopes are set up
by the TAS in the parking lot. Park in the Pierce College parking lot by the Olympic
Building (North side of the campus). In addition to the telescope viewing, TAS members
give presentations in the Olympic Building.
You should view at least four different objects and have the person running the
telescope initial this sheet to show what you viewed and that you were truly amazed at
what you saw.
Tacoma Astronomical Society
P.O. Box 8881 Tacoma, WA 98419
www.tas-online.org
Astronomy Field trip Sign-off Sheet
Student Name __________________________________
Date _________________________
Telescope 1 Object ______________________________ Signed ___________
Telescope 2 Object ______________________________ Signed ___________
Telescope 3 Object ______________________________ Signed ___________
Telescope 4 Object ______________________________ Signed ___________
Lecture
______________________________ Signed ___________