The option to study GCSE Astronomy is only available as an additional option, on top of thecompulsory GCSEs and three option subjects, and outside the framework of the normal timetable.
Lessons will take place during (and instead of) the History of Ideas sessions, supplemented with some evening or before school lessons. Observation nights will be included however most observation work will be completed at home (when its dark!) and this is a significant component of the practical work.
You can start the course on a trial basis in Term 6 of Year 9, but you will need to make a firm decision as to whether or not to commit to the course at the start of Year 10.
Why might you want to take it?
This is only an appropriate choice for highly-motivated and committed students with a deep interest in physical science. Studying astronomy helps to approach the biggest questions and fuels a desire to understand great phenomena. It follows an incredible story of how scientists, from ancient civilisations to the modern day, have used their imagination and carefully recorded visual measurements to explore the Universe in which we live. It’s a diverse subject and offers transferable skills, such as problem solving and research skills.
What will you study?
The GCSE Astronomy course is offered by the Edexcel exam board and involves the following units of study:
Topic 1 – Planet Earth Topic 2 – The lunar disc
Topic 3 – The Earth-Moon-Sun system
Topic 4 – Time and the Earth-Moon-Sun cycles Topic 5 – Solar System observation
Topic 6 – Celestial observation
Topic 7 – Early models of the Solar System Topic 8 – Planetary motion and gravity Topic 9 – Exploring the Moon
Topic 10 – Solar astronomy
Topic 11 – Exploring the Solar System Topic 12 – Formation of planetary systems Topic 13 – Exploring starlight
Topic 14 – Stellar evolution
Topic 15 – Our place in the Galaxy Topic 16 – Cosmology
It is examined through two exam papers of 1h45m each, both taken at the end of Year 11. Students also need to complete several observational tasks and records. A basic telescope will be provided for this if required.
