Entry Year
Location
Duration
Course Code
Qualifications
Pearson Edexcel GCSE in Astronomy (603/0244/6)
Day of week: Thursday
Times: 18:00 - 20:30
Overview
This course will be of interest to individuals who wish to learn about the universe in which we live and also acquire some practical skills of astronomical observation. The course will also be of interest to seasoned amateur astronomers who wish to consolidate their understanding of the subject or extend their observational techniques. The course will also appeal to those who might wish to go on to study astronomy at a higher level in the future.
The course is divided into two units. In the first unit we will begin with a look at the Earth, star constellations and the celestial sphere, the Moon and the Sun, tides and eclipses, the make-up of the Solar System and the influence of gravity, finishing with a consideration of some historical aspects of the development of our understanding of the planets.
The second unit will build an understanding of the Sun and the Solar System by considering how the planets (including exoplanets) formed and then extend that exploration to investigate the formation and evolution of stars, our place in the Milky Way galaxy and finally finish with a survey of our understanding of galaxies and cosmology, including latest ideas on the expansion of the universe, dark matter and dark energy.
Alongside the development of your understanding of the universe you will also have the opportunity to develop practical observational skills and carry out a range of guided assignments including observations of the Moon, the Sun, meteors and comets, double stars, variable stars and deep sky objects (nebulae, star clusters and galaxies). Use of a variety of astronomical instruments will be described and explained during the course.
There are no prerequisite entry requirements for this course. No prior knowledge of the subject is assumed and all the course subject matter will be taught in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Only basic ‘school’ mathematics will be used and this will be taught in simple steps with plenty of worked examples, when needed, during the course.
Practical assignments will be carried out by students in their own time, at home. Half of the practical assignments will be carried out as ‘naked eye’ observations and the other half of the assignments are carried out with the aid of some optical instrument.
The recommended minimum equipment needed to complete this course is a pair of 10x50 binoculars but if students possess or have access to a telescope (80mm refractor or a 150mm reflector or larger) this would improve their viewing experience. Use of a digital camera on a tripod could also prove useful but is not essential.
Fees:
Academic period 2025:
FE Tuition Fee = £300.00 (Concessionary = £180.00)
Examination / Registration Fee = £50.00
Fees are payable annually.
The course is assessed through two written examination papers: one based on unit 1 material and the other based on unit 2 material. Additionally, students will be required to submit a portfolio of work comprising written descriptions and accompanying diagrams of some practical observations which they have carried out as homework assignments during the course.
Careers
The course develops some observational and mathematical skills as well as extending scientific knowledge. Such knowledge and skills would be of interest to companies seeking to employ STEM students.
For those students who wish to take the study of astronomy further, perhaps at university level, this course will provide a firm foundation for such study.
For those students who simply wish to continue with their enjoyment of amateur astronomy this course should enrich their understanding of their hobby.
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