SCIE101 Physical Science

Department of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics: Science

I. Course Number and Title
SCIE101 Physical Science
II. Number of Credits
3 credits
III. Number of Instructional Minutes
IV. Prerequisites
Reading Placement test score Level 3, or READ110 (C or better), Math Placement test score of 5 or higher, or MATH095 (C or better)
V. Other Pertinent Information

Scientific calculator required.

This course meets the General Education requirement for Scientific Literacy.
This course meets the General Education requirement for Quantitative Literacy.

VI. Catalog Course Description
Physical Science provides an introduction to the phenomena of motion, force, energy, matter, sound, electricity, magnetism, and light. Students study nature's basic laws and how they govern human experience.
VII. Required Course Content and Direction
  1. Course Learning Goals

    Students will :

    1. identify the observable and experimental bases of science and relate them to the basic scientific discipline of physics [Scientific Literacy];
    2. explain the scientific method of analysis and apply it in a variety of situations [Scientific Literacy]; and,
    3. analyze, interpret, and apply quantitative information as it relates to physical science [Quantitative Literacy].
  2. Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities

    The following topics are presented:

    1. mechanics: motion, Newton's Laws, momentum, energy, rotational motion, gravity
    2. properties of matter: the atomic nature of matter, solids, liquids, gases, and plasmas
    3. heat: temperature, heat, thermal expansion, heat transfer, change of phase, thermodynamics
    4. sound: vibrations and waves, properties of sound, musical sounds
    5. electricity/magnetism: electric charge, Coulomb's Law, Ohm's Law, circuits, magnetic fields, Faraday's Law
    6. light: properties of light, color, reflection and refraction, light waves, light emission, light quanta
  3. Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals

    Exams, quizzes, class participation, and projects as specified in the individual instructor's course syllabus will be utilized.


Review/Approval Date - 12/07; Core Goals/Objectives added 11/04; New Core 8/2015