Astronomy Level 2 challenges students to conduct independent research, think critically, and make connections between concepts on the page and the real world. Each lesson builds on the last, introducing new vocabulary and concepts in a logical progression. Every week, your child will:

READ – The text for Astronomy Level 2 presents information to the student via engaging readings; color images, diagrams and charts; and the occasional poem or mnemonic. All lessons are informed by valid, scientific research and theory, not supernatural explanations or manufactured debates about accepted science.

EXPLORE – Each lesson is followed by at least one hands-on lab. Students apply the scientific method, collect and interpret data, and build models. They use a balloon to model the expansion of the universe, calculate the gravitational force between objects, and use GPS for a geocaching excursion!

ABSORB— Students take on their own, independent research with the Famous Science Series (FSS). Each FSS project introduces a scientist or discovery related to the lesson. From Galileo’s discovery of Jupiter’s moons, to Edwin Hubble’s expanding universe, to the Mars Curiosity rover, students engage with the history, personalities, and technology that shaped our understanding of the universe.

LEARN—Show What You Know quizzes and three unit assessments help you determine what your student has mastered, and what they still need to review. You can use these as formal, written assessments, or as the basis for conversations that help you gauge your student’s understanding of key concepts.

If you want to continue your study of astronomy for a full year, you can also purchase The Stargazer’s Notebook, which guides you in exploring the night sky with observation instructions, calendars, sky maps, and additional labs.