Astronomy GCSE

[JugglingMummyof2]

Anyone out there got a DC who has taken or is taking Astronomy for GCSE? DD can't seem to find any resources which actually cover the curriculum, there seem to be no textbooks. We have asked the teacher, who is very much doing this for love not money and in his own time, who cannot suggest any specific text either. Any advice gratefully received.

[Pangur2]

They do the GCSE and a level at Greenwich observatory as an evening course; they may be able to help you.

[autumncolour]

Which Board is she studying for? Is she using this book at school:

www.amazon.co.uk/GCSE-9-1-Astronomy-Pupils-Teachers/dp/0995648301/ref=asc_df_0995648301/?hvlocphy=1007039&linkCode=df0&psc=1&hvnetw=g&hvadid=310783995501&th=1&hvpos=1o1&hvdev=c&hvtargid=pla-563852077669&hvrand=8485157334525092299&tag=mumsnet&ascsubtag=mnforum-21

[JugglingMummyof2]

Edexcel is the board and no they don't have a textbook - that was what I was searching for. Have you/your DC used that one @autumncolour? Is it any good as the reviews looked very hit and miss.
I'll try Greenwich and see if they can recommend anything.
Thank you both.

[Spofforthgirl]

My school has offered astronomy as an additional GCSE for nearly 30 years thanks to the dedication of my wonderful colleague; Mr Fry. He sadly died last year and left the school his extensive collection of astronomy worksheets and Edexcel GCSE practice papers. Mr Fry devoted his life to his students, and we have digitised his collection to inspire and support future generations of astronomers:

www.gsal.org.uk/gsal-archive/mr-frys-astronomy-archives/

I hope you daughter finds the materials useful.

[JugglingMummyof2]

Dear @Spofforthgirl - I never cease to be amazed by the sheer fabulousness of Mumsnet and the support we extend to each other. I have given and received lots over the years.
However, I think this may be the first time I have ended up with such a giant lump in my throat - thank you and Mr Fry for the information, inspiration and kindness.

[KeepingTheWormsQuiet]

Nonsuch High School for Girls in Cheam offers Astronomy GCSE. Maybe you could contact them.

[Spofforthgirl]

Dear @JugglingMummyof2 - I have spoken to our Head of Astronomy and she says that the space.fm website is also a brilliant resource for the new GCSE specification:

www.space.fm/astronomy/tools/about.html

[spiderlight]

I only clicked this thread out of curiosity but I now have a huge lump in my throat for Mr Fry and the pure loveliness of MN!

[Spofforthgirl]

Today is the first anniversary of Mr Fry’s death, and he is greatly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. The term ‘legend’ can be an over-used term but in Mr Fry’s case it is an entirely appropriate description. He was a man of great intellect and he was also incredibly kind, generous and gracious. Mr Fry (and his faithful canine companion) were immortalised by Joanne Harris in her book ‘Chocolat’ and we have also tried to keep his legacy alive by creating a dedicated webpage, please be warned tissues may be required!

www.gsal.org.uk/alumni/remembering-mr-fry/

Mr Fry would be rather bemused that pupils far and wide are able to access his worksheets through the internet, particularly as he completely eschewed any form of technology preferring his trusted slide rule to a ‘rinky-tinky calculator’.

[EvaHarknessRose]

This makes me really want to take Astronomy GCSE..

[DragonTrainer3]

DS1's Astronomy teacher has said the lack of books is a problem, but apparently a new one is due to come out this year?