ASP1010

Earth to cosmos - introductory astronomy ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Ms Susan Feteris

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: Unit provides students with an appreciation and understanding of the concepts and exciting insights gained by astronomers into the nature of the solar system, the galaxy and the cosmos. Material will emphasise key concepts and allow students to gain understanding and the ability to communicate these concepts through a range of activities. Concepts include electromagnetic radiation, optics, gravity, motion and energy, and relativity. These are applied to models of the solar system, the galaxy and the cosmos, to the characteristics of astronomical objects including planets, comets, stars, novae, pulsars, black holes and quasars, and to earth-based instruments and space-probes.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students will be able to effectively communicate contemporary astronomical ideas to others and demonstrate teamwork skills; outline the development of ideas in astronomy and describe the theories and models used to explain the origin, evolution and structure of the solar system, the galaxy and the cosmos; outline techniques used to derive astronomical information, describe the basic characteristics of astronomical objects including planets, comets, stars, pulsars, quasars, black holes, galaxies; understand and use the physics concepts needed for a basic understanding of astronomy, including electromagnetic radiation and optics, gravity, motion and relativity.

Assessment: Examination (3 hours): 60% + Practical workshops: 25% + Project: 10% + Quizzes: 5% (Students must achieve a pass mark in the practical workshops to achieve an overall pass grade)

Contact Hours: Three 1-hour lectures and 2-hour practical workshop/tutorial per week

Prerequisites: Secondary science to Year 11 (recommended)