Conceptual Astronomy 1

Conceptual Astronomy is an experience-based program which teaches fundamental principles of astronomy through observation, experiment, and interactive activities. All the activities are teacher-tested and assume no particular training in astronomy for the teacher or for the student. In this program, you and your students will take an exciting journey from earth, to the moon, the sun, the planets, and finally the stars in an ever-widening path of discovery. This guide is the answer to the question of how to design hands-on activities around the content which involves measurement, experimental design, and mathematics using the experiences of students as the basis for learning. Instructors are presented with a variety of methods to give students these experiences including direct observation, modeling, and computer simulation. Regardless of the school's setting students will be able to participate. Part One is intended to be a one semester course. Another volume will be available in the future to expand this course to an entire school year. The author, Jeff Adkins, is a practicing high school teacher and the Director of the Academic Challenge and Enrichment Research Academy at Deer Valley High School in California.