Syllabus: Introduction to Astronomy (PHYS-141) – Stars, Planets, and the Universe

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Course Overview

This syllabus outlines the structure, requirements, and expectations for the course "Introduction to Astronomy (PHYS-141): Stars, Planets, and the Universe." The course provides a broad introduction to astronomy, focusing on the scientific study of the universe, including stars, planets, galaxies, and cosmology. It is designed for non-science majors and emphasizes conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and the scientific method.

Course Information

Instructor: Dr. Philip Bennet
Location: Blocker Hall, Room 104
Lecture Times: Mon–Fri, 6:00 PM – 8:45 PM
Lab: Wed, 7:00–8:45 PM
Includes: Group Activities, Website, Telescope

Course Description

This course explores the scientific study of the universe, including the Earth’s cosmic environment, the Sun, planets, stars, galaxies, and the universe as a whole. Students will learn about the methods astronomers use to study the universe, the history of astronomical discoveries, and the impact of astronomy on society. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding and the development of scientific reasoning skills.

Prerequisites

Basic math skills (arithmetic, high school-level Algebra, Geometry) are expected.

Student Learning Objectives

Understand the scientific method and its application to astronomy.
Describe the structure and scale of the universe, including the solar system, stars, and galaxies.
Explain the physical principles underlying astronomical phenomena.
Gain practical experience with telescopes and astronomical observations.

Required Course Materials

iClicker Reef Account (for attendance and participation)
Basic scientific calculator (no graphing calculators allowed on exams)
Textbook: Explorations: Introduction to Astronomy, 8th or 9th edition (Arny & Schneider)
Notebook, writing utensils

Grading System

Grade	Score (%)
A	93–100
A-	90–92
B+	87–89
B	83–86
B-	80–82
C+	77–79
C	73–76
C-	70–72
D+	67–69
D	63–66
D-	60–62
F	0–59

Final grade components:
- Midterm Exam: 20%
- Final Exam: 25%
- Participation and In-Class Activities: 15%
- Homework: 20%
- Team Project/Presentation: 20%

Course Topics (Tentative Outline)

Week	Chapters/Topics	Lecture Topics & Readings	Assignments
1	Ch. 1: The Cycle of the Sky Ch. 2: The Reason for Seasons	Check Connect for readings	HW #1
2	Ch. 3: Gravity and Orbits Ch. 4: Light and Atoms	Check both Bb and Connect	HW #2, HW #3
3	Ch. 5: Telescopes	Check both Bb and Connect	HW #4
4	Ch. 6: The Solar System Ch. 7: The Earth	Check both Bb and Connect	HW #5, HW #6
5	Ch. 8: The Moon and Mercury Ch. 9: Venus and Mars	Check both Bb and Connect	HW #7, HW #8
6	Ch. 10: The Giant Planets Ch. 11: Pluto and the Kuiper Belt	Check both Bb and Connect	HW #9, HW #10
7	Ch. 12: The Sun Ch. 13: The Stars	Check both Bb and Connect	HW #11, HW #12
8	Ch. 14: The Lives of Stars Ch. 15: The Deaths of Stars	Check both Bb and Connect	HW #13, HW #14
9	Ch. 16: The Milky Way Ch. 17: Galaxies	Check both Bb and Connect	HW #15, HW #16
10	Ch. 18: Cosmology	Check both Bb and Connect	HW #17

Additional info: The course outline includes midterm and final exams, team projects, and opportunities for extra credit. The schedule is tentative and subject to change.

Policies and Expectations

Attendance: Required for all classes and labs. More than 2 unexcused absences may result in a lower grade.
Participation: Active participation in class activities and discussions is expected.
Homework: Assigned regularly and must be submitted on time. Late work is penalized.
Exams: Closed book/notes. Formula sheets provided. No make-up exams except for documented emergencies.
Academic Integrity: Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited and subject to university disciplinary action.

Student Support and Resources

Learning Resources Center (Clarke Hall)
IT Services Help Desk
Disability Services
Writing and Speaking Studio

Additional Information

Students are responsible for checking email, Blackboard, and Connect for updates and assignments.
Contact the instructor for questions or concerns.