Course content will be addressed in the lectures in class, readings and quizes from the text book, concept test questions, project assignments, and exams. Attendance to the lectures is required and is the single most important way to ensure success in this course. There will be ample opportunity for individual exploration and interaction -- just as there is in scientific research. You are encouraged to ask questions in class and during office hours; to visit the Teaching Observatory; and, in general, to let only your imagination be the limit.

• EXAMS: There will be two exams, each consisting of 30 multiple choice questions. A midterm exam will be given in class according to the course schedule. The final exam will be given either in the last day of class or in the exam date indicated in the course web page. These exams should not be missed. Makeup exams will be given only for documented medical or family emergencies. Each exam will count for 20% of your final grade.

• OBSERVING PROJECTS: Part of the fun of astronomy is the opportunity to do actual observations through a telescope. You will complete two short observing assignments, one at home and one at the campus observatory just south of the Reitz Union. Public open houses are held every clear Friday night from 8:30pm to 10:00pm, courtesy of UF graduate students in astronomy. The written reports summarizing your work in these observational projects will be due by the Deadlines indicated in the the course web page. Each observing project will be worth 20% of your final grade.

• READINGS and QUIZES: Your major homework responsibility for this class will be to complete the reading assignments given before each lecture. By keeping up with the reading, you will be able to better participate during class. Periodically, short quizes will be given during normal class hours. The results of these quizes will count for 20% of your final grade. The makeup quiz policy is the same as that for the exams described above.

• CONCEPT TEST QUESTIONS: During some classes, concept test questions about the material covered so far will be asked for you to discuss among yourselves. Your written answers will be collected after class. These concept test questions provide an easy way to gather extra bonus points that will count towards your final grade. By simply answering these questions correctly you may increase your final score by as much as one full letter grade (another good reason to come to class and participate in the class activities).