GE SC 101 - Backyard Science

5 Credits

This class will cover scientific concepts that surround each of us, whether we realize it or not. The course will emphasize a hands-on exploration of the natural world and help students to understand the functioning of the ecosystems in which they live and how we impact those ecosystems through our choices.

Pre-requisite(s) MATH 081 or higher min. 2.0
Placement Eligibility Math 091 or higher
FeesSL SC

Quarters Typically Offered
Spring Day

Designed to Serve General Education Science students and students with an interest in urban agriculture
Active Date 20210403T10:08:50

Grading Basis Decimal Grade
Class Limit 24
Contact Hours: Lecture 44 Lab 22
Total Contact Hours 66
Degree Distributions:
AA

Science
Science Lab

Course Outline

Scientific Method and the Metric System
Chemical and Physical Properties of Water
Water as a Resource
Geology of Soil
Composting and Decomposers: Worms, Fungi, and Microbes
Backyard Botany
Meteorology and Weather
Fundamentals of Ecology and Species Interactions
The Science of Food Energy: Production and Use

Student Learning Outcomes
Describe the structure and function of ecosystems, including flow of energy, cycling of materials, and interconnection of living organisms.

Design, conduct and present results of experiments or observational studies focused on specific environmental problems.

Describe how the scientific method can be used to find solutions to various environmental problems.

Correctly use laboratory and field techniques when conducting experiments and observational studies.

Describe how geologic and atmospheric conditions affect both short-term and long-term states of ecosystems.