GCSE Astronomy
Full course content, assessment information and examination requirements.
About GCSE Astronomy
GCSE Astronomy is offered to a select group of Year 10 students with a strong interest in astronomy and space science. Lessons take place after school for one hour each week and are taught by Mr Sutherland, Mr Lennox, Mr Mitchell and Mr Willis.
Students sit a mid-year examination before being considered for entry to the GCSE Astronomy examination in the summer of Year 10, providing the opportunity to achieve an additional GCSE qualification before beginning Year 11.
About the course
GCSE Astronomy explores the Solar System, stars, galaxies and the wider Universe through both theoretical study and practical observation. Students develop their understanding of astronomy through classroom learning, practical observations and independent study.
The course is divided into two examination papers, each worth 50% of the final GCSE. Students who enjoy astronomy, space exploration and the challenge of studying an additional qualification alongside their GCSE subjects are particularly well suited to the course.
Paper 1
50%Naked-eye Astronomy
- Planet Earth
- Lunar Disc
- Earth-Moon-Sun System
- Time and the EMS System
- Solar System Observations
- Celestial Observations
- Early Models of the Solar System
- Planetary Motion and Gravity
Paper 2
50%Telescopic Astronomy
- Exploring the Moon
- Solar Astronomy
- Exploring the Solar System
- Formation of Planetary Systems
- Exploring Starlight
- Stellar Evolution
- Our Place in the Galaxy
- Cosmology