PHY205 Objectives

1. To learn how to use simple tools to observe and make predictions about celestial objects.
When looking at objects in the sky, the student will ...
(a) tell time using Solar time, Standard time, Daylight Savings time, and Universal Coordinated
Time.
(b) using a planisphere or planetarium software, predict when at least three stars, five
constellations, one planet, and the moon will be visible and where to locate each.
(c) while observing the sky identify at least three stars, five constellations, one planet, and the
moons phase.
(d) for at least one constellation be able to relate the mythology of the star grouping in a manner
appropriate for a K-8 audience.

2. To learn how our solar system is arranged based upon observations one could make with
the naked eye or a small telescope. The student will ...
(a) conclude from data gathered about the suns daily and annual motion (altitude, azimuth,
maximum altitude, time above and below the horizon) how the earth orbits the sun and use that
model to explain why it is warm in the summer and cold in the winter for a given location on
earth.
(b) conclude from data gathered about the moons appearance and motion, why the moon
exhibits phases and how the moon moves, relative to the earth and sun, and why we occasionally
have solar and lunar eclipses.
(c) describe key observations that allow one to conclude that the sun is the center of the solar
system.
(d) construct a relative-scale model of the solar system using observational data.
(e) classify solar system objects based on properties, include planets, dwarf planets, moons,
asteroids and comets.
(f) describe the factors that make earth suitable for life and what to look for in other solar system
objects for signs of life.

3. To learn about the basic physical characteristics of stars, the nuclear processes that fuel
stars, the evolution in time of stars. The student will ...
(a) describe how luminosity, temperature, and composition of a star can be determined based on
the light observed from the star.
(b) describe the nuclear processes that fuel a star in terms appropriate for a K-8 audience.
(c) describe the stellar life cycle including star formation, main sequence, and describe the most
common stellar remnants.
(d) Tell how data from distant stars can be used to identify planetary systems outside our solar
system.
(e) describe how planetary systems form.

4. To learn about natural laws and scientific theories that describe the structure of the solar
system, galaxies and universe and the evolution in time of the universe. The student
will...
(a) relate Newtons Law of Universal Gravitation to the orbit of solar system objects.
(b) describe how Einsteins Law of General Relativity differs from Newtons Law of Universal
Gravitation and relate General Relativity to astronomical phenomenon(eg. Black Holes,
gravitational lensing).
(c) explain key observational evidence used to develop the Big Bang model of cosmology
including Hubbles Law, Cosmic Microwave Background, and Galaxy Formation.

5. To become familiar with national and state science education standards, and key on-line
and electronic resources for learning about and teaching astronomy. The student will...
(a) Use reputable online sources to gather information about location and appearance of sun and
moon for various times of year and various locations on earth.
(b) locate astronomy content in Michigan Science Standards (identical to Next Generation
Science Standards).
(c) identify two sources of interactive online content, (eg appletts) and appropriate ways to
integrate interactive online content into 5E lesson structures.
(d) relate astronomy to some aspect of daily life.