per class
Introduction to Astronomy
Completed by 3 learners
Ages 11-16
Live One-Time Class
Live video meetings
Meets once
2-9 learners per class
60 min
What's included
1 live meeting
1 in-class hoursClass Experience
This will be an introductory class, for those who are curious about astronomy and who might want to learn more. In this introduction, I will talk about objects visible with the unaided eye - many of which can be seen even in a big city, others might require darker conditions (outside city limits, but not requiring a visit to a location such as Easter Island, although if you do visit such a location you will be astonished how much more can be seen!). I will be introducing some images and slides, with some facts about each object, and plenty of opportunities for interaction. I believe that lessons should be factual but informal and fun - it promotes learning whilst keeping learners engaged. This introduction will be fuly interactive - and I am full open to questions and discussion.which I want to make up approximately 50% of the duraction of the session. Towards the end I will be open to questions and suggestions. What topics in astronomy do learners want to learn about the most! The final slide will list a few possibilities. I aim in subsequent sessions to introduce, at introductory level, topics seldom covered in a school curriculum and/or to give a scientifically accurate answers to any questions raised.
Learning Goals
I aim to promote an interest in astronomy as a hobby, it also serves as a potential entry route into other areas of scientific study, which in 2022 can only be a good thing.
Ifirmly believe that some working knowledge of science is essential in today's world, and an interest in astronomy can follow on to related interest in other areas of science. For example, if a learner were to ask, "why is there life on Earth, and where else might it exist?", it can lead to wider discussion of what makes for an environment where life is likely to develop. All forms of biology are subject to the laws of both physics and chemistry, and this leads on to discussion of the evolution of life on Earth, and how it may differ in other environments.
This lesson is merely an introduction, but future lessons will develop the subject further. I am, naturally , open to comments and suggestions of topics for future lessons.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Although astronomy is a generally safe hobby which can be persued at any age, there is one important warning to be given. Although there is much to be seen using the unaided eye, it is a natural progression to use a telescope or binoculars for viewing. This comes with one important safety warning.
The one and only thing you must NEVER attempt to look at using a telescope or binoculars is the sun. It is horribly dangerous. The sun is unimaginably hot and bright and the focused heat (infra red radiation) can cause instant blindness and is also a fire hazzard. For this reason please provide adequate supervision and only observe when the sun is fully below the horizon, i.e before sunrise or after sunset). Your eyes cannot be replaced and even a moment's exposure could be tragic.Children should not use any optical aid without adult supervision.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Meet the teacher
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am looking forward to teaching! Its nice to meet you! I believe that in today's world, in the 'information society' knowledge is power. I believe that teaching is best if it is interactive, fun and engaging, So, a little about me.
I have recently gained my TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) Certificate, and I can certainly provide tuition here. However, I feel have much else to share besides. I am a father of two and I recall how, for example, my older daughter's teachers remarked that my daughter knew column addition when she had yet to be taught it.
Whether its English tuition, help with school work or a school project, or a general interest of yours, I am willing to assist you. I believe that learning needs to be fun, interactive and engaging for young learners and more formal for older students.
My background is in Engineering - (I have a first degree in Electronics, BSc Electronics, graduated 2000, and a masters' degree, MSc Computer Science, 2004, both from Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, England). As I have decided that a career change is in order, I have decided to take up teaching as I can share my knowledge with students anywhere in the world and can do so from anywhere, I have plans to travel the world and am eager to share knowledge and experience.
If you require help with schoolwork or projects, I can help, I can help with English (of course) if it is not your first language, as well as assisting with mathematics, and science (I have a good working knowledge particularly in chemistry and physics), and I also have an interest in history and astronomy in addition to the engineering disciplines which are my background. In addition, I am a licensed radio amateur since 1995 with a full UK licence and enjoy being out of doors, I love hiking, cycling and swimming out of doors.
I am happy to teach any age group after conducting a needs assessment, so I hope to see you in my classroom soon! Best wishes, David
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