PC 101 - General Physical Science

1. Use experimentation or practice to experience and deepen understanding of scientific and mathematical theories. (GELO3)
2. Observe, describe, and explain natural phenomena caused by physical and chemical changes. (GELO3)
3. Gather and synthesize information from books and other sources of information in order to learn more about a particular topic. 
4. Follow procedures in the form of step-by-step instructions, flow charts, diagrams, and sketches. 
5. Describe how matter and energy are conserved. (GELO7)
6. Use the atomic theory to explain how matter is organized and the ways matter changes. (GELO7)
7. Compare and contrast the differences among physical, chemical, and nuclear changes. (GELO7)
8. Identify and describe forms of energy including their source, use, and interactions with matter. (GELO7)
9. Assemble electrical and magnetic systems using appropriate tools and instructions, and explain how they work. (GELO6)
10. Translate or explain what written information means and/or how it can be used. 
11. Create and/or organize data and information into meaningful patterns in order to interpret and draw inferences from it. (GELO3)
12. Identify the best solution to a problem or issue. 
13. Manage time effectively.

Lab Work (hands-on activities and discussion):  30-50%

Mediated Instruction (video/computer):  10-30%

Group Work:  10-20%
Mandatory Course Components:
Use the labs in the official course lab manual.

Conduct demonstrations.

Provide individualized instruction.

Facilitate discussions.

Demonstrate instrumentation and equipment.
Accepted GRCC Advanced Placement (AP) Exam Credit: None
AP Min. Score: NA
Name of Industry Recognize Credentials: None

Course prepares students to seek the following external certification:
No
Course-Specific Placement Test: None
Course Aligned with ARW/IRW Pairing: IRW 98, IRW 99

Essential Abilities – Physical Science-101

The Grand Rapids Community College Chemistry faculty has specified essential abilities and technical standards critical to the success of students in GRCC Physical Science 101 (PC-101) course. Course content for PC-101 is taken from chemistry and physics. Students must demonstrate these essential abilities to succeed in these courses. Qualified applicants are expected to meet all admission criteria and matriculating students are expected to meet all progression criteria, as well as these essential abilities and technical standards with or without reasonable accommodations.

I. Essential judgment skills include the ability to identify, assess, and comprehend situations for the purpose of problem solving and coming to appropriate conclusions and/or course of actions.  Specifically, students must be able to:

• Apply mathematical concepts to solve problems
• Express knowledge of the appropriate level of chemistry and physics in written and/or  verbal formats
• Draw conclusions based on knowledge and experimental results
• Recognize unsafe situations  in a laboratory environment 

II. Essential physical/neurological functions include the ability to use the senses of sight, hearing, touch, and smell. Students must meet expectations necessary to safely perform tasks required to study physical science, which include the need for manual dexterity and the ability to use sight and hearing. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Manipulate equipment and glassware to prepare for and conduct laboratory procedures
• Write in a laboratory notebook during the course of a laboratory experiment
• Observe and note changes (in color, sound, etc.) as experimental conditions progress or change
• Read and /or hear laboratory directions that involve either experimental procedures or safety concerns
• Inform the course instructor of any allergies (chemical, latex etc.) that may lead to an allergic reaction

III. Essential communication skills include the ability to communicate effectively with fellow students, faculty, and all members of the Physical Sciences department. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Understand written and verbal direction when completing tasks and assignments associated with the lecture portion of science courses
• Understand written and verbal directions when completing laboratory tasks and assignments
• Understand written and verbal directions when following all Departmental safety rules and procedures
• Communicate any issues that involve health or safety in a laboratory environment
• Use information technology skills consistent with effective communication.

IV. Essential emotional coping skills include the ability to demonstrate the mental health necessary to safely engage in the practice of scientific discovery.  Specifically, students must be able to:

• Engage in multitasking without becoming overly stressed
• Practice safe laboratory procedures and be mindful of the safety of others
• Realize that exposure to chemicals can have consequences if the correct safety procedures are not followed
• Collaborate with lab partners to complete a task in the classroom or laboratory

V. Essential intellectual/conceptual skills include the ability to measure, calculate, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate to engage competently in the safe practice of Chemistry and Physics. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Select appropriate methods to solve mathematical problems
• Use a calculator to complete calculations
• Use equipment and instrumentation to make measurements
• Analyze graphical data and/ or concepts
• Express an understanding of the concepts learned in chemistry and physics in written form or verbally

VI. Other essential behavioral attributes include the ability to engage in activities consistent with safe practice without demonstrated behaviors of addiction to, abuse of, or dependence on alcohol or other drugs that may impair behavior or judgment. The student must demonstrate responsibility and accountability for actions as a student in the Physical Sciences Department.

Grand Rapids Community College strives to be more than ADA compliant. We strive to be accessible and welcoming to all students of all abilities. After reviewing the Essential Abilities/Technical Standards for this program; your responsibilities as a student entail determining if you can complete all associated coursework either:

1. With Accommodation. I am otherwise qualified to meet the same academic standards as any other student entering the program. However, based on a medically documented condition or diagnosis, I would qualify for reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990). I will meet with Disability Support Services on campus to arrange those accommodations in an interactive process with the department of Physical Sciences.
    
2. Without Accommodation. I am able to complete the program without need for reasonable accommodation or modification. In the event my medical documentation reveals otherwise or a condition manifests that would necessitate an accommodation; it is my responsibility to inform a responsible authority figure within the department of (field of study) and work with Disability Support Services to see if a reasonable accommodation or modification can be made.

If you have a medically documented condition or diagnosis, please contact the (field of study) office, or contact Disability Support Services (DSS) at disability@grcc.edu or by phone at 616.234.4140 to arrange accommodations through our interactive process.