Exam Board: Edexcel
Have you ever looked up at the night's sky on a clear night and wondered: “What is going on out there?”. If so, then GCSE Astronomy is the course for you.
Astronomy is considered by some to be the oldest science. In modern times, it is branch of science concerned with objects and phenomena outside of the Earth's atmosphere. The Astronomy GCSE not only gives you chance to learn about the processes which form planets and stars like the ones we see in the sky, but also the history of astronomy during ancient civilisations (archeoastronomy) the development of the first telescopes, space exploration and discoveries, theories and questions in modern times including the origin and fate of the univsere, black holes and the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
The Astronomy GCSE is comprised of 16 topics, sorted into two strands: Naked Eye and Telescopic Astronomy.
Naked Eye Astronomy:
Telescopic Astronomy:
The course is 100% assessment, consisting of two papers each worth 50% of the course. Paper 1 is on Naked-eye Astronomy and Paper 2 Telescopic Astronomy.
The exam papers are a mixture of different question styles including multiple choice, short answer questions, calculations, graphical and extended-open-response questions.
Questions may require students to rearrange and solve equations, plot graphs and substitute values into formulae. While the level of mathematics required will not exceed that of GCSE Foundation Mathematics, students should be comfortable with using these skills.
There is also an emphasis on observational skills are tested in the examinations. Throughout the course students will plan, design and evaluate different observations that could be carried out by astronomers. Students are required to complete at least two observations from a prescribed list. These will be planned in lessons and students supported on how to carry them out. Students will not be expected to have access to any specialist equipment at home to complete these observations.
The working field of astronomy today is hugely interdisciplinary, with many different subjects and specialisms using it.
Possible roles include:
…and more!