Physics 112 Astronomy

Course Information

Course Information Spring, 2004

Professor: Amy J. Kolan

email: kolan@stolaf.edu
Office: SC 126
Phone: 646-3668
Office Hours: Tuesday 9:30-10:30 am, Thursday 7-8 pm
Classroom: SC 170

Text: Universe, Roger A. Freedman and William J. Kaufmann III, 6^th edition, WH Freeman, 2002 ISBN 0-7167-4647-6. In addition you will be asked to buy a packet of star maps and other class materials from the department secretary, Lynda Russell, in SC 112. Lynda is here only in the mornings. The cost of the packet is $3.00.

Course URL: www.stolaf.edu/courses/2003sem2/Physics/112

Starry Night: Throughout the course you will be using the Starry Night software that comes with your textbook. If you don't own a personal computer, Starry Nights is installed in SC 113--just click on the Starry Night icon on the desktop.

Grading:

• Exams: There will be three regular exams each worth 18% of your grade. The final will be comprehensive and worth 21%. The homework, in-class exercises, and weekly quizzes are worth 15% and the observing is worth 10%. Exams will be graded on the following basis 85-100 A, 70-84 B, 55-69 C, 40-54 D, 0-39 F.
• Homework: There will be reading and homework due each day in class. The reading assignments are in a class handout or can be found on the web on the course syllabus. The reading assigned to a day should be done BEFORE lecture on that day. The homework will be on the web at www.stolaf.edu/courses/2003sem2/Physics/112/homework. No late homework assignments will be accepted. The physics department is in the process of finding a student who will help you with the homework. I will also be available on Thursday nights to help with homework.
• Observing: A variety of celestial objects will be viewed using telescopes located on the roof of the Science Center (the roof is accessed via the southeast stairway). The rooftop facility will be staffed by student TA’s each clear night, Sunday through Thursday. You will fill out an observation sheet for each object, listing some of the relevant data (time, date, object name, scope magnification), and make a sketch of the object. Please note that we have many cloudy nights in Minnesota–take advantage of those clear nights! Observations will be graded at midterm and at the end of the course on the following basis 5-A, 3-4 B, 2 C, 1 D, 0 F.
• Class Attendance: Class attendance is mandatory as we will be doing many exercises in class. More than 4 unexplained absences will result in your grade being lowered by a full letter grade.
• Disabilities: Any student with a documented disability needing academic adjustments or accommodations is requested to speak with me during the first week of class. All discussions will remain confidential. Students with disabilities also need to contact Student Disability Services in the Academic Support Center - Room 1 of the Old Main Annex.