Introduction
to Observational Astronomy
TARGET AUDIENCE:
Classroom teachers who have an interest in the night skies, and discovering
connections to the classroom.
NUMBER OF HOURS: introduction is a minimum of 30 hours
DATE(s): by
arrangement
TIME(s): by arrangement
LOCATION: where needed
DESCRIPTION: This class is typically 10 sessions of 3 hours each. It will involve outdoor activities, readings, and computer activities. Topics will include, but not be limited to:
- The Seasons
- The Daytime Sky: Sun, moon, and...
- The Night Sky: stars, planets, aurora, meteors, satellites, etc.
- Time and its measure; Sundials & Clocks
- Distance and its measure; from nanometers to light years
- Where on Earth are we? Sextants, Compasses, GPS
- Astronomy vs. Astrology
- Historical & Current Astronomical Events
- Telescope designs
- The Electromagnetic Spectrum
- The Solar System
- The Milky Way & Other Galaxies
- Internet Resources for Astronomy
- Software simulations such as www.stellarium.org
- Astrophotography, film and digital
- Classroom Activities; Project STAR, The Universe in the Classroom, NASA Education, etc.
Projected Learner Outcomes: (What participants will be able to apply in their job upon the completion of the workshop):
- Determine which astronomy topics fit into the curriculum you teach
- excite students about the study of astronomy
- become a lifelong observer
ASSESSMENT (How I will assess using a follow-up session, demonstration, final product or something other method to assess participant learning):
- each session will have a short quiz or performance assessment
EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Participants should bring blank CD's and/or USB memory sticks for saving information. Other than that, no equipment is needed, but the class is more enjoyable if we have access to any of these: binoculars, spotting scopes, telescopes, computers
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS (IF APPROPRIATE): not more than 30.
PREREQUISITES: must have a genuine interest
MATERIALS FEES:
Astronomy and Mathematics
Examine the many opportunities to use mathematics inspired by mankind’s interest in the heavens. This introductory session will utilize materials from the Internet, NCTM’s Mission Mathematics, Alfred University, Project Star, and will include telescopic observations as a bonus.