Course Syllabus

ABE94/77
Environmental Science

General Class Information

 Class Information*

Environmental Science FRSH 77-GH01  (4021)

 Course Modality*

Hybrid

 Schedule and Location*

Context Module Sub Header

 Catalog Description*

This theme based English course integrates reading, writing, listening, speaking, and critical thinking skills around assignments and activities focusing on Environmental Science. Topics include population, ecology, climate change, sustainability and pollution. Students will specifically focus on environmental issues related to the Pacific Northwest. Laboratories are included. This competency based class allows students to work at their own pace, exit at a level appropriate to demonstrated skills and knowledge, and earn possible high school completion English, Lab Science, Science, Contemporary World Issues and/or elective credits.

An integrated pre-college course designed to improve the student's reading and writing ability for entrance into ENGL& 101. Course work focuses on critical reading and analytical writing in response to readings, with an emphasis on organization, unity, coherence, and adequate development; an introduction to expository essays; and a review of the rules and conventions of standard written English. Essay and research writing is included. This is a preparatory class for college success with reading emphasis on text analysis for structure, inferring meaning, critical thinking, and vocabulary development. Introduction to literary devices is included. HS21+ students may have the opportunity to earn HS credit based on the contextualized theme of the course. The criteria to earn a specific content credit will be clearly outlined in the syllabus and align with the HS21+ credit earning process.

 Prerequisites*

Prerequisite: ABE 074 with a minimum grade of C or ABE 075 with a minimum grade of C or ABE 077 with a minimum grade of C or ABE 078 with a minimum grade of C or ABE 079 with a minimum grade of C or ENGL/ 085 with a minimum grade of C or Placement in ENGL/ 095

 Textbooks & Supplemental Materials*

This course is labeled in the Class Search as “Open Educational Resources: No Textbook to Purchase.” This means that this class does not require the purchase of a textbook. The textbook and course materials are provided online at no charge in this Canvas course’s modules. 

 Technology Required*

This is a web-enhanced course meaning that our course materials are available online via Canvas. You will need regular access to a computer and internet. Some assignments can be completed on your phone but others will be easier if done from a desktop, laptop, or tablet. If you need support using technology or learning how to use Canvas, please visit the Information Commons in Building 16 on the first floor at the end of the hallway.

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Professor Information

 Professor Information*

Name: Professor Carlos Morado
Carlos or Mr. Morado
External email: cmorado@tacomacc.edu
My preferred method of contact is canvas inbox.
Office Hours: Before and after class: Tuesday and Thursday 1000AM-10:30pm and  12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
Electronic Response Times: 48 hours or less

 Welcome Message

Welcome to Environmental Science! I am looking forward to having you in my class this quarter. I was once a student here, experiencing what it was like to be new to college. It can be confusing and overwhelming, but if we work together, we can make this a great quarter. I’m here to help you succeed. If you feel worried about your learning and/or performance in this course, please come talk to me. I am happy to listen and strategize solutions that will improve your learning and performance.

 Communication Policy*

My preferred method of communication with you is Canvas Messanger or email, which I check frequently. You can email me at any time, but you may not receive a response outside regular business hours. Generally, emails received before 5:30 p.m. will receive a response before 6 p.m., and emails received after 5:30 p.m. will receive a response on the following business day. Business days are Monday–Friday, except for holidays.

Please set Canvas so that it sends you a message when I make a comment on your work. To do this, go to Canvas>Account>Notifications>Course Activities>Submission Comments. Click on the check mark for immediate notification to your home email or text, depending on what you prefer. You may also want to take a look at the other possible notifications and see what you would like to receive.

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Class Policies and Procedures

• Attendance: Attendance is tracked in this class. Attendance counts for 10% of your grade.
• Due Dates: All assignments are due by 11:59pm the day of the due date listed on Canvas. 
• Late work: Late work is accepted up to a month after it is due. Generally late work will lose 20% of its score with some leeway if it's only a day or two late.
• Cell phones & other electronic devices: Use of these devices are permitted and encouraged during class. You may be asked to quickly find a fact or confirm information so please bring them with you. If you need to take a phone call or use your phone for a non-class purpose, please leave the room temporarily so that your screen does not distract others.
• Children in class: By college policy, children are only permitted in the classroom if approved by the instructor. Please talk to me if you need to bring your child to class so that we can ensure a positive learning environment for the class.
• Food/beverages in class: No open drinks or aromatic foods, please. This will be handled on a case-by-case basis to keep our classroom comfortable for everyone.
• Group work: Group work is an essential part of this class. Please talk to me if you have any concerns or reservations about working in groups during and outside of class time so we can discuss strategies to help you succeed.
• Suspended operations: In the event of the campus closing due to inclement weather, a power outage, or another unexpected event, please check your Canvas messages for updates on how we will adjust our course schedule. You may be asked to watch videos in place of in-class time or complete an additional assignment to stay on schedule. In the event you are unable to access Canvas via the Portal, please use this direct link: https://tacomacc.instructure.com/courses/coursenumberhere.

 Classroom Concerns/Disputes/Final Grade Appeal Process*

If you have questions or concerns about this class, please talk to me about them. If we are unable to resolve your concerns, you may talk next with the Chair, Allision Muir, amuir@tacomacc.edu. Professor Muir can assist with information about additional steps, if needed. If you think that your final grade has been given in error, please see the final grade appeal process.

 Academic Dishonesty*

In this class, academic dishonesty will result in a failing grade (“E”) for the assignment or the quarter. Direct copying and AI software is prohibited, while incorrect citation and referencing will result in points taken off. I also reserve the right to remove any inappropriate posts on Canvas such as, but not limited to, profanity or plagiarism. In such a case, you will lose posting privileges and be given alternate assignments. As stated in the TCC Catalog, “Students are expected to be honest and forthright in their academic endeavors. Cheating, plagiarism, fabrication or other forms of academic dishonesty corrupt the learning process and threaten the educational environment for all students”. The complete Administrative Procedure for Academic Dishonesty is available on the TCC website.

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Professor and Student Expectations

Chosen Names and Pronouns

Everyone has the right to be addressed by the name and pronouns that correspond to their gender identity. Class rosters don't list gender or pronouns, so you may be asked to indicate the pronouns you use so that I don't make assumptions based on your name and/or appearance/self-presentation. However, you are not obligated to share your pronouns. If you use a chosen name, please let me know. Chosen names and pronouns are to be respected at all times in the classroom. Mistakes in addressing one another may happen, so I encourage an environment of seriousness and openness to correction and learning. Thank you.

 Professor Expectations

As your professor, we will work to create an atmosphere that will encourage and support your mastery of course concepts. As such, objectives for which I will strive to meet include to:

• Get to know you and what your goals are for this class.
• Meet with you individually at least one time during the quarter.
• Maintain a safe and supportive learning environment.
• Administer fair and equitable policies and procedures to all students.
• Provide a schedule of activities that is clear and communicate changes by email and on Canvas.
• Grade assignments, quizzes, etc. within one week after the stated due date.
• Grade projects (if assigned) and hand them back to students in class no later than one week after the stated due date.
• Answer email within one business day.
• Provide feedback and comments that are thorough and meaningful.
• Be available for students during my office hours and by appointment and inform students of any changes to my office hours by email and Canvas.
• Equip students with general skills applicable to multiple career paths.

 Student Expectations

• Attend class: Class time is when we make meaning of the readings and assignments. It is important that you come to class and engage in discussions and activities. You also don't get a participation trophy. If you come to class every day but don't do any work, you will not be successful and will just be wasting your time. 
• Engage in class: Attending class is the first step – coming to class ready to actively participate in the next step. Ask relevant questions. Take notes. Work cooperatively with other students.
• Check Canvas: Assignments and other assessments are in Canvas. Check Canvas at least three times per week to ensure you complete work on time and understand instructions.
• Respect others: Behave with respect toward each other including other students and your professor. Refrain from profane language or inappropriate/unrelated remarks. Refrain from wearing strong perfumes or colognes – this is a scent-free class.
• Communicate with me: Keep me updated of any circumstances that will not allow you to complete your work on time. I am here to help you learn and can be flexible if something unexpected comes up in your life.
• Self-Advocacy: Seek our resources you need to be successful. There are many resources available to help you succeed at TCC, for example the Writing and Tutoring Center, Access Services, and Counseling. Use the Student Resources Canvas page to access these resources and more.

If there is a concern with your behavior during this quarter, we will use the Student Code of Conduct to frame our discussion. For more information on TCC policies related to student behavior, please refer to the TCC Classroom Standards and Culture webpage.

 Recommended Study Habits

You can expect to devote an average of two hours outside of class to the subject matter (readings and preparation, as well as substantive assignments and participation exercises) for every 50 minutes in class (i.e. one class session). As this is a five-credit class, you can reasonably expect an average of 10 hours of reading/homework each week. Before each class, read the chapter sections that correspond to that class day. Formulate questions about the content that you cannot answer on your own. Come to class prepared to ask those questions and deepen your understanding of the content.

I have tried to ensure that the workload is evenly distributed throughout the class, but if you find you have less than the normal amount of work one week, I suggest meeting with a classmate, going to the Writing and Tutoring Center, and/or attending a Supplemental Instruction (SI) session to review the concepts. Students who do well in this class are able to connect concepts within the class and beyond the class to their other classes and their personal experiences. The more time you spend building connections with the class material to other areas of your life, the better!

 Netiquette Guide for Online Courses

It is important for you as a student to recognize that the online classroom is in fact a classroom, and certain behaviors are expected when you communicate with both your peers and your instructors. These guidelines for online behavior and interaction are known as “netiquette”.

• Treat your instructor(s) with respect, even in email or in any other online communication.

• Always use your professors’ proper title: Dr. or Prof. Unless specifically invited, don’t refer to them by first name.  Some will be OK called “Bob” and others will expect to be “Dr. Smith”.  

• Use clear and concise language.  Be respective of readers’ time and attention.

• Remember that all college level communication should have correct spelling and grammar.

• Avoid slang terms such as “wassup?” and texting abbreviations such as “u” instead of “you”.

• Use standard fonts that are optimized for online reading (e.g., sans serif) along with a consistent and readable size (12 or 14 pt.)

• Avoid using the caps lock feature AS IT CAN BE INTERPRETED AS YELLING.

• Limit and possibly avoid the use of emoticons.  Not everyone knows how to interpret them.

• Be cautious when using humor or sarcasm as tone is sometimes lost in an email or discussion post and your message might be taken literally or offensively.

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Learning Outcomes

Learning outcomes are what you will know by the end of the course if you complete the assignments and participate in class sessions. This class aligns with many specializations and can help you work towards your degree, in whatever subject you are persuing. To learn more about specializations at TCC and their corresponding learning outcomes, visit the College Catalog.

Course Learning Outcomes*

I have designed the class intentionally to meet these learning outcomes. If at any point during the quarter you think you are not on track to meet these learning outcomes, please come talk to me so I can help.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Evaluate information scientifically in the context of his/her own life.
• Explain the importance of observation and hypothesis testing in the scientific process, and distinguish between science and non-science practices.
• Perform scientific investigations in lab setting, gather, analyze and critically evaluate scientific data, and communicate scientific results according to appropriate academic standards.
• Define basic principles used in community and ecosystem ecology, and compare the biodiversity of several different habitat types
• Identify and evaluate instances where population growth and humans' use of resources impacts the natural environment.
• Use the concept of sustainability to critique global and local environmental issues, and identify the steps that can be taken to improve environmental conditions and actively participate in solutions to environmental problems.
• Interpret and explain basic scientific data represented in graphs and charts

Instructional Methods Used

In this class, I use a mixture of discussion, lab, and some group work activities. You can expect to:

• be engaged in frequent classroom activities to build on the readings, activities, and/or homework you have done for each class;
• occasionally work in small groups during class and for those groups to change on a regular basis; and to
• ask your instructor for clarifications, rather than expecting lectures.

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TCC Student Policies

TCC works hard to create a vibrant learning culture where you can succeed. Please refer to the college-wide standards and policies that support this important work.  Some of these policies include Religious Accommodations, Withdraw/Retakes, and the Student Code of Conduct.

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Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Environmental Science Syllabus

Diversity: TCC welcomes people all across the wide scope of races, colors, nationalities, ethnicities, sexual identities and orientations, genders, religions, political affiliations, physical abilities, economic backgrounds, professional histories, marital and parental statuses, and generations. Like our school, I value the diversity in our classroom because it enriches our learning environment and deepens our understanding of others. Additionally, I hold an expectation my students will eventually cultivate a similar appreciation for such diversity.   

Environmental Science Syllabus

Equity:  TCC empowers our community through equitable access to opportunities, knowledge, and resources. We promote intercultural engagement, institutional responsibility and awareness of historical inequities and direct action toward overcoming systemic barriers to create a community where all people can be welcomed, heard, known, represented, and successful.   

Environmental Science Syllabus

Inclusion: We will work together to create an environment in which everyone is treated with dignity and is offered a platform to contribute to our space. To this end, every student: 1) has the right to be called by the name they wish and to have their name pronounced correctly; 2) has the right to be referred to by the pronouns that they share; 3) has the right to express their opinion without fear they are speaking for an entire identity group; and 4) has the right to respectfully identify any barriers to their inclusion in the course without fear of being punished by the professor. 

Environmental Science Syllabus

Student Resources

During this quarter, you may encounter a need that goes beyond this class that affects your academic performance. We are here to help you be successful. You have access to great resources on campus and people ready to support you. Login to Canvas and access the Student Resources course to learn about some of these excellent resources.

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Access and Accommodations

Your access in the learning environment is important to me. If you have already established disability accommodations with the Access Services office, please communicate your approved accommodations to me at your earliest convenience so we can discuss your needs in this course. You can request that Access Services email your Letter of Accommodation to me, or you can provide me with printed copies.

If you have a disability or health condition that may benefit from accommodations to ensure access and support success in this course—and have not yet established services, please contact Access Services at (253) 460-4437 or access@tacomacc.edu.

Access Services offers resources and coordinates reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities and/or temporary health conditions. Services are established through an interactive process that begins with an intake appointment. Access Services is located in Building 7.

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Safety

We care about the safety of our campus and community and all of us are needed in order to create a safe and secure learning environment. Please review the full list of safety resources available to you, which are listed on our TCC Ready website. Additionally, please watch this brief video to familiarize yourself with our general safety practices. Please program the Public Safety number into your cell phone (253-566-5111) or 5111 from any campus phone (If this number is inoperable due to an emergency, dial 253-495-4146) and sign up for TCC Alerts! to receive emergency notifications to your cell phone.

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  Grade Scheme

The following grading standards will be used in this class:

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Syllabus Subject to Change

Please note: This syllabus is subject to change. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible using multiple means of communication. Please check Canvas for the most updated schedule and assignment list during the quarter. 

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