In this course you will learn about some of the important topics in astronomy. We will learn about the night sky, the motions of the earth, moon, sun and planets, and how to be an amateur astronomer. Special topics may include stellar evolution, space exploration and astrology.
The grading policy of Astronomy is designed to reflect how much work you put into learning. If you put in the effort to learn the material you will do well. Your grade will be based on the following categories.
Students may take a week to complete corrections to reports and projects. Set up a meeting with me to discuss changes you must make. Submit a new draft along with the original draft for purposes of comparison. Quizzes and tests cannot be done again for credit.
Note: Only work handed in on time is eligible for corrections.
If you miss class, and it is an excused absence, then you may make up the work you missed. You must see me before class starts or after it has ended and ask for the work. It is your responsibility to find out what you missed and to do it within two weeks.
Lateness is not acceptable unless you were absent and have shown me proper documentation to prove your absence was excused. Arrangements to hand in work missed when absent must be made at the first class meeting upon your return. Points will be taken off your score as follows: 1 day = 5 pts, 2 days = 10 pts, 3 days = 15 pts, 4 days = 20 pts, 5 days = 40 pts, >5 days = partial credit: 50 points.
I am available before and after school most days to provide help with your work. I arrive around 7 am and will usually be here until at least 2:30 pm.