2009 - 2010 Astronomy Syllabus - The Buckley School

1. Mr. Edelen
Astronomy Syllabus
Topics and Projects:
Topics:
• The Constellations and Myths
• Optics and Telescopes
• CHICOS cosmic ray observatory
• Planets and Moons
• Asteroids, Comets, and Meteoroids
• The Sun and the Nature of Stars
• Black Holes
• Galaxies and Quasars
• Cosmology
• Space Exploration
• The Search for Extraterrestrial Life
Projects (extreme probability of each):
• Utilization of Meade LX200GPS with Autostar Controller
• Digital Photography with Telescope
• Sun Spot Analysis or CHICOS Lab
• MANDATORY self-guided quarterly field trip to Griffith Observatory
UCLA Observatory, or CSUN Observatory with video-report on
Astronomy misconceptions. Report details and observatory information
will be provided mid-September.
Materials, Text & Website:
Comins & Kaufmann 7th Edition – Discovering the Universe
Supplemental Material – Starry Night Enthusiast 4.5 & Deep Space Explorer
Scientific or Graphing Calculator (supplied by student)
Methods of Evaluation:
Grades are calculated by using the following approximate ratios:
Quizzes (projects and participation included) 70%
Homework 30%
Assessments are typically 60% critical thinking and 40% recall and recognition. Homework will generally
consist of the following: Reading from the text and supplemental CD-ROM, answering chapter review
questions, solving analytical problems, and completing labs and projects. Quizzes will cover anything
discussed during class or assigned for reading.
We are going greener than green! All assignments will be submitted via personal website created
using Weebly. Most assessment will take place in class using cell phones, or via the internet at
home. However, assessments will be etched into stone tablets if necessary!
The dirty-hippie has returned!