vInstructor:
Prof. Stephen Eikenberry
vWeb site: www.astro.ufl.edu/~eiken/teaching.html
vText: Astronomy: A
Beginner's Guide to the Universe
5th Edition,
Chaisson & McMillan
Class meetings: MWF 3rd Period
Florida Gym 280
vCourse
goals:
1.
Introduce students to the basic concepts
of astronomy & astrophysics, and the scientific method used to
develop these concepts. Concepts include planets, the stars and
galaxies (including quasars, black holes,
neutron stars, the origin of the
Universe, etc.). Methods include pre-telescopic observation,
telescopes, astrophysical theories, etc.
2. Enhance awareness of scientific developments in astrophysics and their impact on
society and the world
we live in (intellectually and physically!). These include the
place of humanity in the Universe, the social impacts of scientific
revolutions, etc.
3. Provide students with an understanding of scientific terms, concepts and
theories, and the ability to formulate empirically-testable hypotheses
derived from the study of physical processes.
What we'll cover:
•1. The Universe:
Stars, galaxies, planets, quasars, black holes, neutron stars, the
origin of the Universe, etc.
2. •How we
know about these things
vHow we’ll cover it:
1. •Astronomy
(which is really Astrophysics)
•
2. Math (the language of science)
•Math: A 4-letter word?
oI assume you’ve had high-school
algebra (I & II), geometry, and have seen some
trigonemetry
oI’ll try to remind you of things you already know
Requirements:
1. Assigned reading prior to class
2. • Homework, Class
Participation, & In-class “Pop” Quizzes (15% of final
grade)
Homework is occasional,
as-needed.
Quizzes are short and easy.
3. •Three In-class Exams (20% each; 60% of
final grade)
•4. Final Exam (25% of final grade)
Grading:
Given the
above scoring (total of 100 points), the following grades will be
assigned:
Grade
Minimum Score
A
93
A-
90
B+
87
B
83
B-
80
C+
77
C
73
C-
70
D+
67
D
63
D-
60
Note that I reserve the right to "curve" scores up,
if I determine that the class score distribution indicates a mismatch
between performance and my expectations. This can ONLY improve
your numerical score and corresponding letter grade -- I will never
apply a curve to reduce a student's score/grade.
Contact Info:
Prof. Stephen Eikenberry
404 Bryant Space Science Center
352-392-2052, x260
eiken@astro.ufl.edu
Office Hours: Wed 11:00 AM - 12:00
noon + by appt.