Astronomy : 0.5 Credit Elective Science Class
This semester elective science class is designed to promote an appreciation of Astronomy. It is a survey class and will cover a broad range of topics related to Astronomy. Students will apply the CIM benchmarks in the areas of chemistry, physics and earth science to the astronomical concepts studied.
To begin, students will learn foundation information necessary for the study of astronomy.
These topics include:
* The difference between astronomy and astrology
* Space physics and common misconceptions
* A brief history of astronomy
* The use of the electromagnetic spectrum to explore space
Once the foundation topics have covered, students will have the opportunity to learn about some of the following topics: (voted by students)
*The night sky/Constellations
*Planet systems
*Asteroids/Meteors/Comets
*Our Sun
*The Moon
*Space exploration
*Star life cycle
*Black Holes
*Galaxies
*Cosmology
*Life in the Universe
Nature of the class:
Astronomy is a lecture and lab based class. Students will receive a majority of their material through class lecture and lab activities. As such, it is crucial to take accurate notes during class and fully participate in all discussions and activities.
In-Class:
Students will be required to keep notes on assigned topics, and make two presentations during the semester; one based on a current event and one based on a research assignment. Additional in-class work will be assigned based on the topic(s) of study. Tests will be given at the completion of each topic/unit; with a cumulating semester final exam.
Materials:
Planner to serve as a bathroom pass and homework
Writing paper, pen (only blue or black ink), and a #2 pencil
Calculator capable of basic math functions.
Grading Weight Grading Scale
Test/Quizzes 40% A = 100 – 90%
Daily Work 20% B = 89.5 – 80%
(Labs, Journal…) C = 79.5 – 70%
Homework 20% D = 69.5 – 60%
Participation 20% F = 59.5 – 0%
Semester Grade based on: 40% for both quarters, and 20% for the final exam
To begin, students will learn foundation information necessary for the study of astronomy.
These topics include:
* The difference between astronomy and astrology
* Space physics and common misconceptions
* A brief history of astronomy
* The use of the electromagnetic spectrum to explore space
Once the foundation topics have covered, students will have the opportunity to learn about some of the following topics: (voted by students)
*The night sky/Constellations
*Planet systems
*Asteroids/Meteors/Comets
*Our Sun
*The Moon
*Space exploration
*Star life cycle
*Black Holes
*Galaxies
*Cosmology
*Life in the Universe
Nature of the class:
Astronomy is a lecture and lab based class. Students will receive a majority of their material through class lecture and lab activities. As such, it is crucial to take accurate notes during class and fully participate in all discussions and activities.
In-Class:
Students will be required to keep notes on assigned topics, and make two presentations during the semester; one based on a current event and one based on a research assignment. Additional in-class work will be assigned based on the topic(s) of study. Tests will be given at the completion of each topic/unit; with a cumulating semester final exam.
Materials:
Planner to serve as a bathroom pass and homework
Writing paper, pen (only blue or black ink), and a #2 pencil
Calculator capable of basic math functions.
Grading Weight Grading Scale
Test/Quizzes 40% A = 100 – 90%
Daily Work 20% B = 89.5 – 80%
(Labs, Journal…) C = 79.5 – 70%
Homework 20% D = 69.5 – 60%
Participation 20% F = 59.5 – 0%
Semester Grade based on: 40% for both quarters, and 20% for the final exam
Files to be download (available in PDF and Microsoft Word)
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Astro Bob : website for viewing backyard astronomy and upcoming events.