HORT 1401 0394 - HORTICULTURE

Introduction

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HORT 1401-394 SYLLABUS

NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE

Horticulture Program

 

Horticulture (HORT 1401)

Fall 2019 Class Syllabus

 

 

Course Title, Prefix and Number

Horticulture

HORT 1401

Semester & Year

 

Fall 2019

 

Semester Credit Hours

4

Lecture Hours

48

Lab Hours

32

 

 

Class Times

 

Lecture: Online

 

Labs are as follows:

    -Sec. 394: T, 2:30-4:20 PM

    -Sec. 395: T, 4:30-6:20 PM

    -Sec. 396: W, 12-1:50 AM

 

 

Class Locations

 

 

 

 

- Sec. 394: COR 310 (Corinth)

- Sec. 395: COR 310 (Corinth)

- Sec. 396: AGC 1604 (G’ville)

 

 

Course Description

(NCTC Catalog)

 

HORT 1401          Horticulture                                                                  4 credit hours

48 Lecture hours + 32 Laboratory hours

Structure, growth, and development of horticultural plants. Examination of environmental effects, basic principles of reproduction, production methods ranging from outdoor to controlled climates, nutrition, and pest management.  (Cross-listed as AGRI 1415)

 

Course Prerequisite(s):

 

None

 

Required or Recommended Course Materials

*REQUIRED:  Arteca, Richard N. 2015. Introduction to Horticultural Science, 2nd Ed. Cengage Learning. ISBN: 13: 978-1-111-31279-4.

 

 

 

INSTRUCTOR INFORMATION

Name of Instructor:

Ashley Hartman

Campus/Office Location:

Gainesville – AGC 1608

Telephone Number:

(940) 668-7731 x4488

E-mail Address:

ahartman@nctc.edu

 

INSTRUCTOR OFFICE HOURS

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

 

11-12:00 p.m.

Office Hours, Gainesville office

 

Flexible office hours in Corinth before or after lab w/ appt. only

 

 

2:30-5:30 p.m. Office Hours, Gainesville office

 

10-12 p.m.

1-5 p.m.

Office Hours, Gainesville office

 

In and out of Office - Available with Appointment

I am around campus most days and will gladly meet with students with an appointment.  Just call or email to schedule a time that meets your schedule.

 

 

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (From Academic Course Guide Manual /NCTC Catalog)

At the successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

1.

Identify the various horticultural industries and their roles in our society.

 

2.

Investigate methods of environmental manipulation (e.g. greenhouse controls, frost management methods, hot caps).

 

3.

Apply scientific reasoning to investigate questions and utilize scientific and horticultural tools to collect and analyze data and demonstrate methods.

 

4.

Use critical thinking and scientific problem - solving to make informed decisions.

 

5.

Communicate effectively the results of scientific investigations.

 

6.

Describe the fundamentals of plant science.

 

7.

Assess the interactions of soils, water, and fertility in plant science.

 

8.

Contrast the methods of plant reproduction and propagation.

 

9.

Explain the impacts of production methods and technologies on plant science.

 

10.

Contrast methods of pest management in plant science.

 

 

 

 

COURSE REQUIREMENT, EVALUATION METHODS AND CRADING CRITERIA

Grading Policy, Procedures and Core Objectives

 

Assignment Point Values

Assignment                                            Points

Exams (4@100pts.)                              400 pts.

Discussion Forum Posts (15@12pts.)  180 pts.

Quizzes (12@10 pts.)                           120 pts.

Lab Experiment                                       65 pts.

Lab Projects & Participation Rewards   125 pts.

Lab Plots                                                 40 pts.

_______________________________________

                                                           930 Possible Points

 

Grading Scale

833-930 points = A
740-832 points = B
647-739 points = C
554-646 points = D
Fewer than 554 points = F

Note:

89.5 - 100% = A

79.5 - 89.49%=B

69.5 - 79.49%=C

59.5 - 69.49%=D

Less than 59.5% = F

 

Course Evaluation Explanations, Core Objectives, and Assignment Descriptions

 

Exams

Meets Core Objective for Critical Thinking

The lecture tests will be generated from information in the weekly online units and in the weekly labs.  This includes the following: reading assignments, research projects, videos, supplemental unit information, lab discussions, and lab projects.  Exams are not cumulative.  Exam questions will be multiple choice and true/false and are generated from a test bank.  Questions are randomly generated from a test bank, and each student receives a different exam according to this randomization.  Exams are 50 questions, and 30 minutes will be allotted for each exam. 

If a student would like to take the exam on paper, please schedule this with the professor one week prior to the exam opening.  If the exam is taken on paper, the student will have unlimited time to take it, but notes, books, etc. will not be allowed. 

 

If an exam is not taken before the due date, a zero will be recorded in the grade book. 

 

Exam questions and answers are NOT posted after students complete their exams; however, exams can be reviewed one-on-one with the instructor by making an appointment to meet.  

 

Exam Grade Breakdown: There are four exams at 100 points per exam for a total of 400 points.

 

Discussion Forum Posts

Meets Core Objectives for Critical Thinking, Communication, Empirical & Quantitative Skills, and Teamwork

After learning the science behind various horticultural practices, students research horticultural concepts and apply them to the “everyday” world around them.  In these weekly, research-based discussion forums, students discuss and debate various controversial horticultural topics.

 

For each of the 12 online lecture units, students will participate in assigned discussions.  Discussion forums will be graded according to the grading rubric posted with each discussion forum (rubric is in Appendix A of syllabus and is also posted in CANVAS). 

 

Forum information will NOT be included on course exams; however, many of the topics discussed in the forums are applicable to unit content, and active participation in discussion forums will benefit students.  If a student does not participate in the discussion forum before the due date, a zero will be recorded in the grade book. 

 

Discussion Forum Grade Breakdown: 12 Forums at 15 points each for a grand total of 180 points.

 

Quizzes

Meets Core Objective for Critical Thinking

Each unit contains a quiz as a follow-up to the unit.  Quizzes are timed, and 10 minutes will be allotted per quiz.  One attempt is allowed for each quiz.  The quizzes open on Monday morning at 12:01 a.m.., along with the other unit information that opens at that time; they need to be completed by 11:59 p.m. the following Sunday night.  Note: if a question is missed, correct answers will need to be researched by the student.  Answers are not given in the quiz feedback.  If a quiz is not taken before the due date, a zero will be recorded in the grade book. 

 

Quiz Grade Breakdown: 12 Quizzes at 10 points each for a grand total of 120 points.

 

Lab Experiments

Meets Core Objectives for Critical Thinking, Communication, Empirical & Quantitative Skills, and Teamwork

Lectures and class assignments will expose students to methodologies necessary to the comprehension of the environment’s role on growth and development of horticultural plants.  In applying and synthesizing this knowledge, students will utilize the scientific model for a formal research project.   Each student will be assigned to a research team, and during the course of the semester, each team will conduct an experiment based on the scientific method.  Data collection will include visual analysis and quantitative measurement of plant growth and development as influenced by environmental and horticultural factors.  Students will statistically describe data and will create graphical representation (tables, charts, graphs) in lab reports.  Experimental results will be shared through oral and written communications in lab.  Further information will be provided in lab.

 

Lab Experiment Grade Breakdown: The research experiment is worth 65 points.

 

 

 

 

Lab Projects & Participation Rewards

Meets Core Objectives for Critical Thinking, Communication, Empirical &  Quantitative Skills, and Teamwork

Lab Projects & Participation Rewards Grade Breakdown:  This grade category is worth 115 points, and the point breakdown for it is as follows:

 

Point Value

Assignment

Description

100

Participation Rewards

Students who participate in lab activities and who take the initiative required during the lab will earn participation rewards.  Rewards will be given for discussions, group projects, and individual initiatives.  Students not participating and taking the required initiative during labs will not earn these participation rewards.  After each lab, students are expected to clean up their areas, sweeping, putting away tools, cleaning countertops, etc.

 

If a student misses a lab, regardless of excuse, the participation rewards for that lab cannot be earned.  There are no make-up labs.  With instructor permission, however, students may attend a different lab section during the week of the missed lab; arrangements must be made in advance of the lab.  Participation rewards have to be earned, not just by attending, but by actively engaging in lab activities and coming to class prepared.  Please note that the course attendance policy will directly influence this grade (tardiness, leaving class early, etc.).

 

Grades for participation rewards are awarded as follows:

  • If a student is on time and participates in a total of 12 labs, 6 points will be earned (-1/2 point for each lab less than 12)
  • If a student is on time and participates in a total of 13 labs, 85 points will be earned
  • If a student is on time and participates in a total of 14 labs, 95 points will be earned
  • If a student is on time and participates in a total of 15 labs, 100 points will be earned

10

Asexual Plant Propagation Assignment

Students will take home 12 cuttings from plants that they asexually propagate and care for until the end of the term.  Grades for this assignment are awarded as follows:  If 10 plants are alive at the end of the term, 10 points will be awarded, 9 plants = 9 points, 8 plants=8 points and so on.

3

Introduction Discussion Forum

During the first week of the term, students will be asked to introduce themselves in an online discussion forum and post a profile picture.

4

Plant Parts for Botany Lab

Students will be asked to bring the following plant parts for the botany lab: 1 monocot leaf, 1 dicot leaf, 1 grass meristem, 1 shrub meristem, 1 freshly cut stem from the very end of a tree branch, the outmost 8” of the twig (please only cut on large, established trees, not young trees!!!), bermudagrass rhizomes, 1 potato, 1 sweet potato

6

Compost Ingredients

Students are asked to bring 3 bags of compost ingredients.

2

Jars & Soil

For the soil lab, students are asked to bring a glass jar with a lid and a small bag of soil.

125

TOTAL POINTS

 

 

 

 

 

Lab Plots

Meets Core Objectives for Critical Thinking, Communication, and Teamwork

Students learn the influence of the environment on growth, development, and production of horticultural plants.   Each student will be assigned a garden plot to plan, amend, design, plant, tend, weed, fertilize, and water throughout the semester.  In addition, students will use their plots to conduct assigned scientific research projects.  This allows students to apply instruction and learn about the science and art of horticulture.  Grades are assigned based on the ability of the student to apply concepts as learned in lecture and lab.  Students are responsible for the care of their assigned lab plots (amending, designing, planting, tending, weeding, harvesting, cleaning, fertilizing, and watering).  If a student misses the labs in which the plots are planted, it’s the responsibility of the student to pick up the plants from the greenhouse in Gainesville and plant the plot on their own time BEFORE the next lab.

 

Plot Grade Breakdown:  The plot is worth 40 points; point breakdown for the lab plot is as follows:

 

Point Value

Assignment

Description

5

Plot Design

Draw out plot plan according to instructions given in lab and in Canvas.  Submit by deadline.  Plans not submitted by deadline will be given a zero; however, students still have to complete assignment.

5

Weeding

Students are expected to keep weeds from growing in plots and to recognize the difference between weeds and garden plants.  The instructor evaluates the plots at an undisclosed time during the semester and will grade the plots for weeding.

5

Harvesting

The food grown in the plots is to be harvested on a regular basis.  The instructor evaluates harvesting at an undisclosed time during the semester and will deduct points for un-harvested plots. 

20

Watering

The plots will need to be watered on a regular basis, particularly during the first few weeks after planting.  Due to the initial high watering demand of the plots, students are required to develop a watering schedule and help each other with this task.  Students are expected to participate in the class watering schedule and sign the watering schedule log after watering to receive credit for watering.  The official sheet is the one which includes signature, time in, time out, etc.  Students are responsible for coordinating a watering schedule.  Grades are assigned based on the class median.  Those falling below the class median will have points deducted from their watering grade. If it is raining at the gardens on the day that a student is scheduled to water, email the instructor to find out what to do.

5

Clean Out Plot

At the end of the semester, students will be instructed on how to clean out the lab plot.  Students will be asked to keep certain plants growing in the plots and remove others, remove labels, string, and trellis and store/dispose of properly, and mulch the entire garden with straw.

40

TOTAL POINTS

 

 

 

Last Day to Withdraw

November 1, 2019

 

 

Attendance and Tardiness Policy

 

General NCTC Attendance Policy:

Regular and punctual attendance is expected of all students in all classes for which they have registered.  All absences are considered to be unauthorized unless the student is absent due to illness or emergencies as determined by the instructor.  It is the student responsibility to provide documentation as to the emergency for approval and judgement by the faculty member.  Approved college sponsored activities are the only absences for which a student should not be held liable and only when provided by a college official ahead of the absence.  Valid reasons for absence, however, do not relieve the student of the responsibility for making up required work.  Students will not be allowed to make up an examination missed due to absence unless they have reasons acceptable to the instructor.  A student who is compelled to be absent when a test is given should petition the instructor, in advance if possible, for permission to postpone the exam.  Student will be dropped from a class by the Registrar upon recommendation of the instructor who feels the student has been justifiably absent or tardy a sufficient number of times to preclude meeting the course’s objectives.    Persistent, unjustified absences from classes or laboratories will be considered sufficient cause for College officials to drop a student from the rolls of the College. From Board Policy FC (LOCAL)

 

Class Specific Attendance Policy:

Course attendance is taken at the beginning of each class.

 

Three instances of tardiness (entering class late) will constitute one absence. Students who come late and leave early on the same class day will be counted absent. 

 

Students arriving more than 15 minutes late for class will be counted as absent, and those leaving before class is dismissed will be counted as absent.

 

Please note:  students who come to class late need to make sure that they are counted as present on the roster; see instructor after class to have the roster updated.  If the student fails to have the roster updated, and there is no record of attendance, the student will be counted as absent.

 

The professor will not provide class notes to those who are absent.  Students are responsible for obtaining the missed materials and notes from a classmate, not from the professor.

 

Please take note of the “Lab Projects & Participation Rewards” grade, as lab attendance and participation determines that score.

 

 

 

Student Handbook

 

Students are expected to follow all rules and regulations found in the student handbook which is published online.

 

 

 

Disability Services (Office for Students with Disabilities

The Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) provides support services for students with disabilities, students enrolled in technical areas of study, and students who are classified as special populations (i.e. single parents).

Support services for students with disabilities might include appropriate and reasonable accommodations, or they may be in the form of personal counseling, academic counseling, career counseling, etc.  Furthermore, OSD Counselors work with students to encourage self-advocacy and promote empowerment. The Counselors also provides resource information, disability-related information, and adaptive technology for students who qualify.

If you feel you have needs for services that the institution provides, please reach out to either Wayne Smith (940) 498-6207 or Yvonne Sandman (940) 668-4321.  Alternative students may stop by Room 170 in Corinth or Room 110 in Gainesville.

 

Core Curriculum Foundational Component Area: Life and Physical Sciences

Courses in this area focus on describing, explaining, and predicting natural phenomena using the scientific method.  Courses involve the understanding of interactions among natural phenomena and the implications of scientific principles on the physical world and on human experiences.

 

Required Core Objectives
  1. Critical Thinking, Aspect 3: “Students will analyze information effectively.”
  2. Critical Thinking, Aspect 4: “Students will evaluate information effectively.”
  3. Critical Thinking, Aspect 5: “Students will synthesize information effectively.”
  4.  Communication, Aspect 1: “Students will demonstrate effective development, interpretation, and expression of ideas through written communication.”
  5. Communication, Aspect 3: “Students will demonstrate effective development, interpretation, and expressions of ideas through visual communication.”
  6. Empirical and Quantitative Skills, Aspect 1:  “Students will demonstrate effective manipulation of numerical data or observable facts.”
  7. Empirical and Quantitative Skills, Aspect 2:  “Students will demonstrate effective analysis of numerical data or observable facts.”
  8. Empirical and Quantitative Skills, Aspect 3:  “Students will demonstrate effective manipulation of numerical data or observable facts to reach informed conclusions.”
  9. Teamwork:  “Students will demonstrate the ability to consider different points of view and to work effectively with others to support a shared purpose or goal.”

 

 

CORE CURRICULUM FOUNDATIONAL COMPONENT AREA (For Classes in the Core)

 

               Communication

               Mathematics                        

X             Life and Physical Science

               Language, Philosophy & Culture

               Creative Arts

 

               American History

               Government/Political Science

               Social and Behavioral Sciences

               Component Area Option

 


REQUIRED CORE OBJECTIVES (For classes in the Core)

 

X             Critical Thinking

X             Communication

X             Empirical and Quantitative

X             Teamwork

               Personal Responsibility

               Social Responsibility

 

COURSE TYPE

               Academic General Education Course (from ACGM but not in NCTC Core)

X             Academic NCTC Core Curriculum Course

               WECM Course

 

 

Academic Dishonesty

 

Scholastic dishonesty shall include, but is not limited to cheating, plagiarism, academic falsification, intellectual property dishonesty, academic dishonesty facilitation and collusion.  Faculty members may document and bring charges against a student who is engaged in or is suspected to be engaged in academic dishonesty.  See Student Handbook, “Student Rights & Responsibilities: Student Conduct ([FLB(LOCAL)]”.  Consequences for academic dishonesty are detailed in the Student Handbook.

 

 

 

QUESTIONS, CONCERNS, or COMPLAINTS

Name of Chair:

Dr. Lisa Bellows, Department Chair, Science Division

Campus/Office Location:

Gainesville – Science Building

Telephone Number:

(940) 668-7731x4346

E-mail Address:

lbellows@nctc.edu

 

Name of Dean:

Sara Flusche, Dean of Instruction

Campus/Office Location:

Gainesville – Instruction Building

Telephone Number:

(940) 668-3351

E-mail Address:

sflusche@nctc.edu

 

 


 

Facebook & Email Lists

 

I oftentimes take photographs during class and will post them to Facebook.  Please Like us at NCTC Agriculture to see posted pictures.

                            

If you would like to join email lists to be notified about information regarding the Horticulture Certifications, Job Opportunities, or the NCTC Horticulture Club, please send me an email expressing interest. 

 

 

Other Policies and  Pertinent Information

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Policies and  Pertinent Information, continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Policies and  Pertinent Information, continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Policies and  Pertinent Information, continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening and Closing Units

Units will be opened on Monday mornings at 12:01 a.m. and will close the following Sunday night at 11:59 p.m.  All work needs to be completed in the opened unit by Sunday at 11:59 p.m.  Credit will not be received for late work.  No exceptions.

 

Lab Schedule

Please note that many labs are outside.  It’s difficult to predict weather, so the scheduled lab activity might change at the last minute.  The instructor will let you know via a course announcement if the activity changes – this might be a last-minute change; be sure to have announcements sent to your email address or as a text to keep abreast of changes to the lab schedule.

 

 

 

Emailing the Instructor

After the first week of class, all correspondence with the instructor should be done through the CANVAS course mail system rather than through the NCTC email system.

 

Instructor Follow-up

The instructor will answer correspondence within 24 hours, Monday-Friday.  Any emails received between Friday at noon and Sunday will be returned at the beginning of the following work week.

 

Computer Problems

If students have computer or CANVAS troubles, complete a CANVAS work order ticket, or call the NCTC Computer Helpdesk at (940) 668-3335. Please do not call the instructor. 

 

Computer problems are not an excuse for late work.  Each campus has open computer labs for students to use; if a student is having personal computer problems, use one of the NCTC computer labs.

 

Missing Exams or Quizzes:

There are no make-up exams, quizzes, or any other assignments in this course.  If a student misses any assignment, the student will receive an automatic zero in the grade book.

 

Disruptive Behavior:

A student who engages in any behavior or language in the classroom that intentionally or unintentionally disrupts the learning process will be asked to leave the class and may be reported for disciplinary action.

 

Grade and Attendance Records:

All grades and attendance/tardy records will be posted in CANVAS.

 

Cell Phones, Texting, and Outside Communication:

Please silence all cell phones before class.  In cases of emergencies, students may answer a phone call or a text but must leave the classroom/lab environment to do so.  Texting and outside communication in the classroom and lab environments is prohibited.

 

Missing Labs

Each lab is assigned participation and plot points that students earn as a reward while attending the lab.  Regardless of excuse, if a student misses a lab, participation and plot rewards for that lab cannot be earned, as the opportunity to earn them is during the scheduled lab.  With instructor permission, students may attend a different lab section during the week of the missed lab; however, arrangements must be made in advance of the lab.  There are NO MAKE-UP LABS.

 

 

 

 

 

Late Work:

Late work will not be accepted for any reason. Again, computer problems are not an excuse for late work.  All assignments NOT turned in by the due date will be given a zero in the grade book.

 

Tobacco Products:

Please do not bring tobacco products or any containers that might have tobacco byproducts in them into the classroom, the gardens, or the Gainesville Greenhouse.  See Tobacco Free Campus Information Policy.  If you do use tobacco products, always wash your hands with soap and water before entering the greenhouse (Gainesville) or touching any plants.

 

Lab Attire, Physical Nature of Activities, and Weather Factors

The majority of the labs in this course are held outdoors, regardless of weather conditions.  Be prepared to work in the heat, cold, and wet weather.  If the weather merits a change in lab schedule, students will be notified by the instructor via an online announcement or a note posted on the classroom door.  Check course announcements before coming to class (some might be sent last minute).

 

Be sure to dress according to the expected weather and appropriately for the scheduled lab activities.  Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and clothes that can get dirty.  Be aware that you will be on your knees, bending, digging, etc. Here is a good rule to follow: “Raise your hands, touch your toes.  If anything shows, go change your clothes. “ 

 

You may also need sunscreen, bug spray, and a hat.  If you are allergic to wasps or fire ants, come prepared – wasps, bees, fire ants, etc. frequent the garden.  I keep a supply of gloves in the lab room/storage shed, but you may bring your own if you’d like.  Also note that students may occasionally use chemicals such as fertilizers, insecticides, bleach, etc. 

 

Be sure to come prepared with water (and electrolytes) to drink.  There are no vending machines or water fountains near the gardens.

 

This class is more physically demanding than other college classes.  Many of the lab activities are strenuous in nature.  Please come prepared to carry heavy loads, to dig, to walk lengthy distances on occasion, to kneel, to use hand saws, etc.  If you have physical limitations that prevent you from these activities, please communicate those to the instructor so accommodations can be made.

 

Study and Preparation Time:

This is a 4-hour credit class.  In general, students should expect to spend 2-3 hours studying for each credit hour of a course; that translates into 8-12 hours of studying OUTSIDE OF CLASS per week. 

 

Also note that 3 credits of this class is ONLINE.  This means that on top of the 8-12 additional study hours, students should allot at least 3 hours a week for completing the basic lecture component tasks.

 

 

Web Browser

Take note that it is best to use FireFox or Chrome as the web browser when using CANVAS.  Do not use Explorer as it’s not compatible with Canvas.

 

Lab Notes

It is the student’s responsibility to take notes during labs.  Much of the information covered during labs is included on exams.  Bring a notebook that can be carried around the gardens and readily accessed.  The instructor will not remind students to take notes.

 

Extra Credit

Students have the opportunity to earn extra credit in this course.  Students may earn up to 20 points during the semester.  See CANVAS Extra Credit Folder under the Lessons Tab or the handout in Appendix B of this syllabus.

 

Curving Exams and Final Grades

Exams, assignments, and final grades are NOT curved in this course.

 

Testing Periods

If a test/quiz fails to perform correctly, email your instructor immediately.  Use Firefox or Chrome for your browser when taking any assessment, and always use a computer with a reliable internet connection.

 

Allergies & Safety

Students will frequently work outdoors during class time.  Please note that there are fire ants, wasps, honeybees, bumblebees, snakes, varying rodents and other forms of wildlife in the gardens.  Although we try to take precautions, students should be aware that they could be in contact with these organisms.  If you have specific allergies related to the outdoors, please come prepared with what you need.  If you have serious allergic reactions to specific things outdoors, please inform the instructor of these the first day of class.

 

Announcements as Emails/Texts!

When the instructor needs to communicate with the entire class at once, an announcement will be posted in Canvas.  Students can choose to receive instructor announcements via texts and/or emails.  To activate this setting, go to your Canvas account, go to “settings”, and under “ways to contact,” enter in how you would like to receive communications (text and/or email).  This is highly recommended.  Failure to read announcements is not an excuse for being unprepared.

 

Graduating?

Be sure to fill out a graduation application!  Go to this website: 

http://www.nctc.edu/current-students/graduation.html

 

Check out the NCTC Career Services:  http://www.nctc.edu/career-services

 

Student Handbook

Did you know there is a Student Handbook? Check it out for important NCTC policies, information, and services.

 

 

 

Toxoplasmosis

 

Toxoplasmosis is caused by a protozoan (one-celled) parasite known as Toxoplasma gondii. Dangers to an unborn child from toxoplasmosis include birth defects and fetal death.  The disease can be passed to people through contact with cat feces, and exposure is possible through contact with contaminated soil.  Students should wear gloves when gardening or working in soil or sand, as it may have been used by neighborhood cats and contain cat feces.   Any foodstuffs from the garden (fruits, vegetables, herbs, etc.) should be washed thoroughly before ingestion.  Gloves and various safety gear is always available for students.

 

 

 

Evaluation of Class and Instructor

 

I am open to receiving your comments, either positive or negative.  These help me to enrich this course and improve as a teacher.  Please feel free to see me, email me at ahartman@nctc.edu, or send me a note in the mail to the following address:  NCTC, ATTN: Ashley Hartman, 1525 West California Street, Gainesville, TX 76240.

 

 

 

Tobacco Free Campus Information

 

NCTC restricts the use of all tobacco products including cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco on campus property. NCTC recognizes the health hazards of tobacco use and of exposure to second hand smoke. Information on a tobacco cessation program is available for students, faculty, staff who wish to stop using tobacco products.  For questions or concerns please contact the Office of Vice President of Student Services at (940) 668-4240.

 

 


 

Tentative Calendar

(Note: for a more comprehensive Lab schedule, see Home Page in Canvas)

Week

Topic

Take Note
  • Aug. 26:  Classes Begin

Week 1

Aug. 26-Sept. 1

 
  • Lecture:  Into. to Hort. Science; Unit 1: Olericulture - Production Methods  – Ch. 23
  • Lab:  Course overview/syllabus, DF rubric, tour CANVAS, tour gardens & assign plots, Water Schedule
  • Take Note:  Intro. DF is due Sept. 1 (Sunday of Week 1)

Take Note
  • Sept. 2:  Labor Day Holiday (College Closed)

Week 2

Sept. 2-8
  • Lecture:  Unit 2: Organic Horticulture - Production Methods - Ch. 25
  • Lab:  Discuss available plants; Discuss Intensive Gardening; Assign Garden Design Project (Due Sept. 8 [Sunday of Week 2] via CANVAS)

Take Note
  • Sept. 9: Official Date of Record

Week 3

Sept. 9-15
  • Lecture: Unit 3: Horticulture Industry – Ch. 3
  • Lab: Amend and Grid Plots

Week 4

Sept. 16-22
  • EXAM I – Units 1, 2, and 3 (Opens Sept. 16 and Closes Sept. 22, 11:59 p.m.)
  • Lab: Plant plots – transplants & seeds

Week 5

Sept. 23-29
  • Lecture: Unit 4: Growth and Development (Fundamentals of Plant Science) – Ch. 1
  • Lab: Bring plant pieces to lab (see Lab Calendar in CANVAS for instructions); Discuss and identify plant parts (Botany & Physiology)

Week 6

Sept. 30-Oct. 6
  • Lecture: Unit 5: Classification of Plants and Plant Anatomy (Fundamentals of Plant Science) – Ch. 5
  • Lab: Sexual Propagation: Dissect flowers & legumes; Assign Research Experiment

Week 7

Oct. 7-Oct. 13
  • Lecture: Unit 6: Plant Reproduction and Propagation – Ch. 6
  • Lab: Asexual Propagation; Experiment Contracts Due (Oct. 13)

Week 8

Oct. 14-20
  • EXAM II – Units 4, 5, and 6 (Opens Oct. 14 and Closes Oct. 20, 11:59 p.m.)
  • Lab: Compare/contrast mulched & unmulched soils; How to take a soil sample; Find healthy and unhealthy soils; Soil jar test (bring a jar to class and a bag of soil)

Week 9

Oct. 21-27
  • Lecture: Unit 7: Soil, Fertility, and Nutrients – Ch. 7
  • Lab:  Follow-up on soil jar test; Make compost (bring 3 bags of compost ingredients – see Lab Calendar in CANVAS for instructions)

Take Note
  • Nov. 1: Last day to drop a class with a “W”

Week 10

Oct. 28-Nov. 3
  • Lecture: Unit 8: Environmental Manipulation, Weather and Climate – Ch. 8
  • Lab: Plant nutrition; Fertilize plots

Week 11

Nov. 4-10
  • Lecture: Unit 9: Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Pest Management – Ch. 11
  • Lab:  Catch up day; Pot up cuttings (bring your cuttings to class)

Week 12

Nov. 11-17
  • Lecture: EXAM III – Units 7, 8, and 9 (Opens Nov. 4 and Closes Nov. 10, 11:59 p.m.)
  • Lab: Entomology

Week 13

Nov. 18-24
  • Lecture: Unit 10: Landscape Horticulture & Xeriscaping – Ch. 19
  • Lab:  Landscape Design

Take Note
  • Nov. 24, 11:59 p.m.: Optional Extra Credit due (Sunday of Week 13)

Take Note
  • Nov. 27-30:  Thanksgiving Holiday (College Closed)

Week 14

Nov. 25-Dec. 1
  • Lecture: Unit 11: Science of Pruning and Plant Care – Ch. 21
  • Lab:  Research Projects Q&A and Work Time; Work in Garden; Bring cuttings to be graded

Week 15

Dec. 2-8
  • Lecture: Unit 12: Turfgrass Management – Ch. 22
  • Lab:  Research Experiment Presentations; Clean out gardens
  • Take Note: Lab Research Papers & Presentations are due in CANVAS Dec. 2 (Monday of Week 15)

Week 16

Dec. 9-11
  • EXAM IV – Units 10, 11, and 12: (Opens Dec. 9 and Closes Dec. 11, 11:59 p.m.) (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday of Week 16)
  • Note:  Labs do not meet this week

Take Note
  • Dec. 13: Commencement Ceremonies in Gainesville

 

 

 

 

Appendix A

 

Discussion Forum

Grading Rubric

 

 

Please note:  If any posts are plagiarized, the student will receive an automatic zero for the assignment, and a letter will be placed in their academic file.

 

 

CATEGORY

 

 

EXEMPLARY WORK

 

 

REGULAR WORK

 

MINIMAL WORK

 

UNACCEPTABLE WORK

 

TIMING:  What day did you post your first research-based post?

 

 

Monday-Wednesday

 

 

(Point value: 3)

 

Thursday

 

 

(Point value: 1)

 

Friday

 

 

(Point value: 0.5)

 

Waited until Saturday or Sunday

 

(Point value: 0.25)

 

PARTICIPATION:  Did you participate in the forum throughout the week and interact with other students?

 

 

Submitted posts on three separate days and interacted with other students.

 

(Point value: 3)

 

Submitted posts on two separate days and interacted with other students.

 

(Point value: 2)

 

Submitted posts on one day and interacted with other students.

 

(Point value: 1)

 

Did not interact with others in the forum or submit posts.

 

 

(Point value: 0)

 

CRITICAL ANALYSIS & RESEARCH:  How many of your posts contained 8-10 sentences, were research-based, did NOT repeat information already covered in the forum, and cited credible sources?  (Note: The research is summarized, paraphrased, or directly quoted and NOT plagiarized information. Opinions, personal observations, and stories are made credible with cited research.)

 

THREE OR MORE research-based posts containing 8-10 sentences, with new information, including at least one source citation listed per post

 

 

 

 

(Point value: 8)

 

TWO research-based posts containing 8-10 sentences, with new information, including at least one source citation  listed per post

 

 

 

 

(Point value: 5)

 

ONE research-based post containing 8-10 sentences, with new information, including at least one source citation

 

 

 

 

 

(Point value: 3)

 

Did not cite sources in the posts, and/or posts were not research-based. Opinions, personal observations, and stories were not tied in with research.

 

 

 

(Point value: 0)

 

GRAMMAR, PUNCTUATION, AND EXPRESSION:  Did you use complex sentence structure and advanced vocabulary?

 

Provides clear, concise research and ideas effectively written in standard English. Demonstrates SUPERIOR knowledge of and attention to grammar and punctuation rules.

 

(Point value: 1)

 

Provides clear research and ideas written in standard English. Demonstrates BASIC knowledge of and attention to grammar and punctuation rules.

 

 

 

(Point value: 0.5)

 

Expression is unclear or interrupted by errors. Occasionally uses slang and/or text talk. Makes minimal effort to use proper grammar and punctuation. Spelling errors.

 

 

(Point value: 0.25)

 

Unacceptable written expression. Frequent grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Point value: 0)

 

 


 

Appendix B

Extra Credit Opportunities

 

Students are allowed to earn up to 20 extra credit points.  You may go to two gardens or two seminars or do a combination of one garden and one seminar to earn the points.

 

Extra credit is due by 11:59 p.m., November 24, 2019, Sunday of Week 13.

 

 

Extra Credit Options

 

Garden Exploration (10 points)

Visit a botanical garden or an arboretum.  Take three pictures of yourself in the landscape.  Write a FULL one-page, double-spaced paper on the principles of landscape design applied to the garden space (see chapter 18 in your text for principles).  You do not need to put your name on your paper as posting it in CANVAS will notify me of the sender.  Submit your paper and pictures via the CANVAS drop box within the Extra Credit folder under Lessons.

 

Potential Local Gardens:

  • Ft. Worth Botanical Garden – this garden is FREE
  • Ft. Worth Japanese Gardens (at the Ft. Worth Botanical Garden)
  • Dallas Arboretum
  • Grapevine Botanical Gardens – this garden is FREE
  • Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary - McKinney
  • Texas Discovery Gardens (Dallas Horticulture Center) – Dallas – this garden is FREE
  • Clark Gardens Botanical Park - Weatherford
  • List of some around Texas:

 

 

Horticulture Seminars (10 points)

Attend a horticulture-related seminar, fieldtrip, or event.  Write a FULL two-paged, double-spaced paper on the topic of discussion.  Be sure to let me know the name of the seminar and where it was taught.  I will email you opportunities as I become aware of them; however, be sure to visit the websites below to find out opportunities that I will not email you.  You do not need to put your name on your paper as posting it in CANVAS will notify me of the sender.  Submit your paper and pictures via the CANVAS drop box within the Extra Credit folder under Lessons.

 

Groups that have Seminars/Events:

 

 

 

NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE

 

Horticulture Program

 

 

 

INSTRUCTOR:

Ashley Hartman

Office: 1608

Telephone: (940) 668-4217

 

 

 

COURSE NUMBER AND NAME:

HORT 1401 Horticulture

 

 

 

SEMESTER AND YEAR:

                2019 Fall Semester

 

 

 

I, the undersigned, acknowledge that I have read and understand the policies of this HORT 1401 course syllabus (as stated in the preceding document) and agree to abide by the terms of this syllabus.  All terms of this syllabus are subordinate to published NCTC policies and all federal, state, and local laws and ordinances. 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________________

Student’s Name—PLEASE PRINT

 

 

______________________________________                           ________________________

Student’s Signature                                                                                         Date

 

STUDENT INFORMATION

 

 

 

Name______________________________________________________________________

 

 

Mailing Address (Include City and Zip)

 

___________________________________________________________________________  

 

___________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Home Telephone_____________________________________________________________

 

 

Cell Telephone______________________________________________________________

 

 

Email Address_______________________________________________________________

 

 

College Major________________________________________________________________

 

 

Occupation_________________________________________________________________

 

 

Future Business Plans________________________________________________________

 

 

How did you find out about this class?___________________________________________

 

 

Are you interested in earning a Horticulture Degree from NCTC?

  • Yes
    • AAS Horticulture Management
    • Horticulture Management Certificate
    • Sustainable Horticulture Certificate
    • Landscape Design Occupational Skills Award
  • No
  • Perhaps – need more information

 

What do you hope to accomplish by taking this course?  Please list at least 3 goals.

 

1. 

 

2.

 

3.

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