ASTRONOMY

428 Semester course - 2 credits

Revised 1998 by: Anita Honkonen and Douglas Dias

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course is offered to all students interested in exploring humankind's current knowledge of space. The topics will range from the earliest concepts of the solar system to the most recent findings form space probes. The course will begin with the solar system - working from the interior of the sun, through the planets, and out to the Oort Cloud (home of comets). In what may seem at times to be more science fiction than science fact, the class will move into the realm of deep space astronomy where topics such as stars, quasars, and black holes will be studied. Individual night observations and a trip to a local observatory are planned. In addition to regular class work, individual sky observation projects and a research paper will be assigned. An emphasis will be placed on lab activities, observations, and available computer simulations so that earth bound students may develop a better understanding of the infinite(?) universe.

RATIONALE:

This course is designed to instill in a student an appreciation for the vastness of space and an understanding that astronomy can be studied in many different ways. Astronomy is intended to be heterogeneous, students may be taking this as their only science course or in conjunction with a full year science class, in either case students should have an interest in space.

COURSE OUTLINE:

I. Historical development of man's concept of the universe

Earth in space

Planetary motion

Measuring distances

II. Constellations

Mapping the stars

Mythology behind constellations (various cultures)

Astrology and the Zodiac

III. The solar system

Moon

Planets

Other solar system objects

Formation of the solar system

IV. The Sun

Structure

Nuclear fusion

Sunspots

Solar wind

Aurora Borealis

V. Stars and stellar evolution

H-R diagram

Types of stars

Black holes

Quasars

VI. Galaxies

Types of galaxies

Galactic evolution

VII. Universe

ACTIVITIES AND LABS:

Lab investigations are used to enhance the learning of many of the topics that are covered in this course. Specific labs may consist of: Lenses and telescopes, crater simulation, computer modeling of solar systems, scale modeling the solar system, and three-dimensional modeling of constellations. Activities such as individual and group observations of the night sky and visiting a local observatory may also be utilized.

METHODS:

This course is designed to expose students to many aspects of Astronomy by using a variety of methods. Computer simulations, lecture, investigative activities, and small group work are among the activities that will be utilized. Depending on the topic being studied, each unit will vary in the amount of each activity. The typical class period will expose the students to at least two different activities.

EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS:

Students will be expected to learn how to apply different types of data to the study of various celestial objects. The students must be open to the ways various cultures have historically explained similar astronomical features in different, but equally valid, ways. The completion of all in-class and out-of-class assignments is required. Students will expected to complete several night observations each quarter.

SKILLS TO BE DEVELOPED:

Throughout the semester students will be learn how to utilize basic astronomical equipment to conduct simple observations. The ability to apply basic geology, physics, and chemistry concepts to the study of astronomical features will be emphasized. Students will work on the presentation of data and its analysis.

TEXTBOOK:

Astronomy Today by Chaisson and McMillan (1997). The text includes a CD-ROM.

OTHER MATERIALS:

Audiovisual materials

Library materials

Prepared investigations

Computer software

NASA materials

Astronomy journals and magazines

"Activities in Planetary Geology", US Government Printing Office

ASSESSMENT OF STUDENTS:

The evaluation of student is based on the following:

- Assignments: Regular homework given most nights

(reading, questions, current events, star gazing)

Classroom investigations.

- Projects: Quarterly research projects and long term observation activities.

- Testing: Tests given at the end of each unit

Periodic quizzes