This course consists of two lectures and one discussion period each week. The lectures will contain the bulk of the course material and provide a forum for general questions. It is intended that the lectures parallel the text. Thus, for a better understanding of the lecture material, it is important you READ THE TEXT (preferably BEFORE the lecture). However, some material in the lectures may not be in the text. You are responsible for all material presented in class, discussion periods, labs, and the homework, even if it is not in the text. On occasion, I will give short in-class quizzes. When these happen, they will always be at the beginning of class, and you will get some points for giving an effort even if you get the answers wrong.
The discussion periods serve a variety of roles. Primarily, they provide an opportunity to think about and apply the lecture material. They also are a forum for question-and-answer sessions, problem-solving practice sessions, and group discussions of issues brought up in the lectures. You are expected to attend discussion section. Most of the time there will be graded work to be done in the discussion period, which will count towards your overall grade in this course. You will need a valid excuse to make up any work missed in discussion section (see below).
The labs will involve hands-on problem-solving, often using the Web, and are intended to be fun and useful practice for the type of research you really will be doing if you pursue a career in astronomy.