Course Syllabus

[Contact]

Email: agallegos@dsdmail.net

Phone: 801-402-5555 ex: 58837

Course Description

Astronomy is the oldest science. Ever since people could look up and wonder about the sky, astronomy in some form has existed. Modern astronomy is what I consider a medley of sciences. It has connections to chemistry, like when we talk about why various types of elements exists and how they form in the heart of stars. There's ties to physics when we explore the origins of our understanding of gravity with Kepler and Newton, or in how we detect and interpret starlight based on the different wavelengths or colors. We might even dip into biology when we discuss what factors astronomers look for in the search for life beyond Earth. I even have a little computer science activity we might do much later to see how we use computers and robots to assist our exploration. We'll explore all sorts of topics--from patterns in the sky to the formation of planets to the evolution of stars to what primordial nucleosynthesis means.  Recommended Math: Secondary Math I with a C or better each term. 

Textbook

OpenStax Astronomy

Supplies

·      Pencil and paper

·      headphones

·      Calculator

·      Phone, Tablet, or Computer

[Grading]

­

Notes/Projects/Quizis

Notes will be given each lesson day of class.  A review quizzes will be given after each lesson.  Each assignment/lab/quiz is worth 10 points. There will be a project that is given almost every single day. Project/quizzes/notes will all be worth 10 points. This will be reviewed and may be modified for subsequent terms. All projects and Notes must be turned in as a pdf.

Tests:

I am not currently planning to have "exams" for the class. This will be reviewed and may be modified for subsequent terms.

Grading scale

For the most complete grade totals, view grades on myDSD.

Hall Passes

Students are encouraged to use the passing period take care of personal needs and ensure they have the proper materials for class. Students requesting to use the hall pass must inform the teacher that they wish to leave the classroom and give a general idea of where they are going.  Students may not leave campus with a hall pass; they must be checked out.  Students using the hall pass must returned to class and ensure the teacher observes their reentry.  If a student is sick or must leave the building, the teacher should be notified.  Any student that leaves class and does not return will be considered truant.

[Expectations]

Be Prepared

·      Come to class on time.

·      Come to class with the necessary supplies and work to be turned in.

Be Respectful

·      Respect yourself and o­­thers.

·      Respect our class time and our materials.

Do Your Best

·      Be responsible for your learning; work hard and do your best.

·      Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Follow School-wide policies!

Attendance Policy

Regular attendance is essential for success in this class.  The school’s attendance policy is followed.  If a student is absent, a parent or guardian must call the attendance office within two days to excuse the absence. If you are absent, you will have the same amount of days that you are absent from class to make up any work; however, your absence must be excused.  The student is responsible for any work that was assigned during the time that you were absent. For extended absences or emergencies please contact me for an individualized plan.

Late Work

Late work will be accepted for credit until the end of a term. After that, late work will not be accepted, without special arrangements (i.e., extended illness/injury).

Any late work for that unit is due by the test date.

For extended absences or emergencies please contact me for an individualized plan.

Lab Safety

Students will learn and understand physics by doing and practicing physics. On lab days, and as directed, students should come to class in closed toe shoes. They should not wear loose or dangly clothes or jewelry. I may also indicate when hair should be pulled back or when students should dress for an outside lab activity.

Citizenship Policy

High citizenship is based upon punctuality, turning assignments in on time and working well with others.  Either three unexcused absences or four tardies will result in a “U.”  Poor classroom behavior will also result in a poor citizenship grade.  Inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.  Cheating is unacceptable and will result in an automatic zero on the assignment, quiz, or test, and a U for the term.