Hands-On Astronomy: The Sky in Your Backyard (Self-Paced)
In this 4-lesson course, students will learn how to identify various stars and constellations they can see right from their own backyard. (Ages 7-12)
Course Summary
God made our Universe incredibly fascinating and enormously vast. The celestial bodies (like planets, comets, and galaxies) that make it up are very intriguing and its size can be mind-boggling. In this Hands on Astronomy series, we will investigate the night sky and discuss stars, constellations, and other objects that are visible right in your own backyard. In addition to the video lessons, students will be provided with recording sheets, interactive activities and hands on projects.
**The projects use simple supplies that can typically be found around the house such as paper, cardboard, and paperclips. If the student doesn't have the supplies, they are encouraged to use other items that are available to them.**
Lesson 1-- Best Viewing Techniques
Lesson 2--Northern Hemisphere: Summer Constellations
Lesson 3--Northern Hemisphere: Winter Constellations
Lesson 4--Southern Hemisphere: Summer and Winter Constellations
˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Primary Hands on Project: Constellation viewer
This is an asynchronous self-paced course. There are no live meetings. This type of learning is wonderful for learners who live across different time zones and/or don’t prefer to be on camera.
Course Curriculum
Course Pricing
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$7 USD
Students will learn how to identify various stars and constellations they can see right from their own backyard. (Ages 7-12)
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Alana May
My passion is teaching astronomy. There is nothing like hearing the "Ooos" and "Awws" from families who have seen the rings of Saturn for the first time through a telescope. The Universe is a vast and amazing place! I am looking forward to sharing many of its curiosities and wonders with your learner!
Education and Experience
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Physics from Angelo State University and a Master's of Science degree in Astrophysics from the University of Alabama where I studied extragalactic astronomy. While in graduate school, I was also a Teaching Assistant for the department's astronomy classes and labs.
During my undergraduate years, I had the honor of working at Texas' second largest planetarium on the campus of Angelo State University. I loved coordinating public planetarium shows and star talks. During this time, I realized how much I love astronomy education.
For the past decade, I have had the opportunity to homeschool my 3 children. I also teach astronomy classes in my community, allowing me to share these explorations with others. I enjoy catering to different learning styles and appreciate what each learner brings to the classroom.
