Writing the Universe: Science Communication in Physics and Astronomy

Catalog description

How does plugging a toaster into the wall make bread turn brown and crispy? Did Interstellar get black holes right? When a headline claims "quantum computers will break the internet," should you believe it? This seminar uses fascinating and often misunderstood topics in modern physics - black holes, gravitational waves, quantum mechanics, the Big Bang - as a backing for developing clear and compelling writing. No physics background is required. Students will learn to structure arguments, write for specific audiences, and evaluate scientific claims critically. Assignments include explaining everyday physics to a general reader, comparing how different outlets cover the same discovery, and reviewing a Nobel Prize–winning breakthrough. Students also gain practical skills in reference management, scientific figure creation, and professional typesetting.