SCED 7021 - Astronomy for Teachers

Experience the basics of observational astronomy as you gain a multitude of strategies to excite students about the universe.  Tour the night sky, explore seasonal constellation changes, the life cycle of stars, and the members of our solar system. Build an astrolab, plot the path of the sun, and use a toilet plunger to demonstrate the rotation of the Earth. With the use of “star hops” and STARLAB, learn how to navigate your way through the sky to identify stars and constellations. Discover activities that teach the planets, phases of the moon, the solar system and constellations. Investigate recent discoveries pertaining to the Kuiper Belt, Ort Cloud, and Aurora Borealis. Teaching activities are geared towards the middle school space science standard, but can be adapted to elementary or high school. 

Target audience: educators K-12.

Note: Please note: This course may be eligible as an equivalency for required coursework in 5-8 science licensure. Contact your K-12 licensure advisor for more information. This course can also fulfill requirements for the Environmental Education certificate.