Astronomy and Earth Sciences

This course will provide students with an overview of our planet, perfectly suited for diverse and abundant life. Studies of astronomy will help students locate our world in the vastness of the universe. Engagement with geology will help students gain an understanding of and appreciation for the landscapes that surround them every day during. Explorations of climate and weather will help students interpret patterns and expand their own ability to forecast and respond to conditions in their daily lives. Students will be encouraged to see the beauty and order in the systems designed for flourishing on this planet and to recognize these themes in their own backyard.

This 32-week course include weekly 1.5-hour class sessions combining demonstration, lecture, and discussion. The course is divided into two 8-week semesters that can be taken together or independently (16 weeks of Astronomy and 16 weeks of Geology/Meteorology). Students will engage in hands-on experimentation that includes documenting findings in lab reports and science journals, application of concepts to their specific location, opportunities for presentation to the class, and an independent science project in a personal area of interest.

Course Objectives:

1. Students will be able to identify the processes that govern interactions on Earth in the study of astronomy, geology, and meteorology in order to articulate the significance of this design in daily life.
2. Students will engage in scientific inquiry and experimentation in exploring features of Earth’s systems.
3. Students will apply concepts to their own locations and communicate their understandings through projects and presentations.
4. Students will investigate the development of the Earth Sciences over time through engagement with primary sources and reflections on current debates.
5. Students will actively explore an area of personal interest and create and method for teaching others about their discoveries.

Texts:

• Stargazer's Guide to the Night Sky (ISBN - 9780890516416)
• The Cloudspotter's Guide (ISBN - 978-0399533457)
• The Practical Geologist (ISBN - 978-0671746971)
• Out of the Silent Planet (ISBN - 978-0743234900)
• Roadside Guide to (Your State) (optional)

Required Materials:

• Mineral ID test kit
• Telescope or binoculars
• Simple weather station