Things Are Looking up! Ongoing Backyard Astronomy Older Grades
Class experience
US Grade 7 - 10
Beginner Level
Each session of this class will cover constellations, planets, and celestial events that will be observable that week. Objects and events presented will vary, depending on the students' interests and location. The emphasis will be on objects that can be seen without a telescope and without having to travel to a dark site. Some of the lore and history of the constellations and stars will also be shared. As time allows, general space questions will be addressed as well. The material will be...
The students will become familiar with the night sky and gain an understanding of movement of the planets and stars.
I have been an avid amateur astronomer my whole life. In my 35 years teaching in private schools and local museums I've taught Astronomy to hundreds of children. In addition to developing and presenting planetarium shows, I've beed a volunteer for for JPL as a Solar System Ambassador.
Homework Offered
Homework will not be assigned but the students are encouraged to go out and observe the night sky at least once each week.0 - 1 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
Grades Offered
Awareness of the cardinal directions (N, E, S, W) around the student's home is helpful.
Suggested but not required: a journal to record your observations.
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Some of the myths associated with the constellations involve sensitive topics (death, infidelity, etc.). These will only be touched on lightly and handled in a manner appropriate for the age group. Kahoot may be used sometimes in class.
I began my journey as a teacher over 30 years ago when I started volunteering as a docent at a farm/wilderness environmental education center. It was there that I realized that I wanted more from my life than just to earn a living. I began to look...
Group Class
$10
weekly1x per week
30 min
Completed by 55 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-17
3-12 learners per class