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Astronomy

GCSE Astronomy enables students to understand our position in the Universe, the movements of planets and stars, the cycles in the night and daytime sky, and the way in which we use technology to observe and interact with space. Students will follow an incredible story of how scientists, from ancient civilisations to the modern day, have used their imagination and carefully recorded visual measurement to explore the Universe in which we live.

Exam board: Pearson Edexcel
Qualification: GCSE
Specification: GCSE Astronomy Specification

Assessment:

The course is assessed through 2 external examinations.

Paper 1: Naked Eye Astronomy (1 hour 45 minutes)

  • Assessment Type: External written exam
  • Weighting: 50% of the final grade
  • This paper includes multiple choice, graphical, short and extended answer questions, and calculations and comprises 100 marks.
  • Details: In this exam you will demonstrate your understanding of the following content areas: planet Earth, the lunar disc, the Earth-Moon-Sun system, time and the Earth-Moon-Sun cycles, solar System observation, celestial observation, early model of the Solar System and planetary motion and gravity.

Paper 2: Telescopic Astronomy (1 hour 45 minutes)

  • Assessment Type: External written exam
  • Weighting: 50% of the final grade
  • This paper includes multiple choice, graphical, short and extended answer questions, and calculations and comprises 100 marks.

Details: In this exam you will demonstrate your understanding of the following content areas: exploring the Moon, solar astronomy, exploring the Solar System, formation of planetary systems, exploring starlight, stellar evolution, our place in the Galaxy, cosmology.

Who is the course for?

The GCSE Astronomy course is suitable  for students who:

  • Are curious about the night sky and enjoy learning about planets, stars and space exploration.
  • Want to understand how the Universe works, including movements of celestial objects and cycles in the sky.
  • Are interested in how scientists—from ancient times to today—observe and explore space.
  • Enjoy hands-on observational activities, whether using telescopes or simple equipment.
  • Want to prepare for future study of, or careers in, astronomy, physics, or space science.
  • Are comfortable using maths to solve problems.