An introduction to Astronomy, to cover the basics of: what is visible in the night sky with the naked eye: the constellations, the moon and the planets, with a little more in-depth study of some topics
Course aim
To make Astronomy interesting and fun, and to make it accessible to both children and grown-ups alike!
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- No skills or experience needed
- This course is suitable for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Name the 8 (or 9?!) planets of our solar system
- Plot 3 constellations visible in the night sky in Winter and Spring
- Name 3 of the brightest stars in the night sky in Winter and Spring
- Name 3 geological features on the moon
- Understand the anti-clockwise solar system
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
- You may be asked to undertake additional work in your own time to support your learning
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
- You will be encouraged to share your work with the group and discuss your learning
What else do I need to know?
- A selection of materials and basic equipment will be provided but you are welcome to bring additional materials with you
- It would be helpful if you had access to the internet (Mobile phone, tablet or computer at home or through a library etc.)
- It would be useful for you to bring a note book, pen and pencil; and a folder to hold the hand-outs.
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading is required but research on the subject on the internet or in the library may be helpful
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
- Progress to a course with another provider
- Become involved with the WEA in a range of voluntary work and other activities including campaigning as a WEA member
- Become involved as a volunteer for a WEA partner or another organisation
- You could progress to Higher Education courses. Follow link to the PEARL website for information http://pearl.open.ac.uk/
- Access the WEA What Next? booklet here http://www.wea.org.uk/learn-wea/what-can-i-do-next
- Other WEA courses in Science and Astronomy
Download full course information sheet
