Description
Written in a conversational tone, this all-in-one textbook and workbook is designed to engage and expand your student’s knowledge of science. This High School Astronomy homeschool curriculum enables students to explore the vast universe, making connections between the creation and Creator without the pressure of exams. Since there are no labs in this course, it should not replace their biology, chemistry or physics courses.
Exploring Creation with High School Astronomy is a journey that starts with the mysteries of the universe. It goes back in time to investigate the history of astronomy, and explores what the early stargazers saw and understood, how the technology advanced what we see and investigate now, and how that technology works. Using vivid graphics and thoroughly-explained equations, your student will explore the science of our Sun, planets, and other astronomical objects in our solar system, galaxy, and universe. They’ll even learn the still-relevant practice of celestial navigation–the same practice that ancient stargazers and modern navigators still use today.
Overview
Some of the scientific reading is backed by mathematical equations that support it. Within the text, the author works out every mathematical explanation in great detail so that your student can follow along without needing the actual math skills. For students who are ready for the math involved in high school-level Astronomy, “On Your Own” comprehension questions are included in the modules (detailed answers are provided in the back of the textbook).
Specific topics include:
- Space and Interstellar Space
- Normal Matter, Antimatter, and Dark Matter
- Black Holes and Wormholes
- The History of Astronomy
- Astronomical Measurement
- The Model of Our Solar System
- The Sun and The Electromagnetic Spectrum
- The Inner Planets
- Orbital Mechanics
- The Moon
- Types of Telescopes
- The Outer Planets
- Dwarf Planets and the Asteroid Belt
- Stars and Constellations
- Galaxies
- Celestial Navigation
Lesson Plans and Materials
There are 14 modules in this course, making it possible to complete in one semester. Since there are no labs or experiments, your student will read an assigned portion of their textbook and then answer the “On Your Own” questions designed to test their comprehension before moving forward. At the beginning of each module, the “Universal Truths” section sets the tone for what students will learn. Then at the end of the module, the “Where Do We Go From Here” section wraps up the lessons learned to help your student see the path forward. Throughout each module there are “Think About This” callout boxes that connect the textbook facts to real-life lessons. When they complete the module, your student self-checks their own answers against the detailed answers provided at the end of each module.
