Few subjects inspire awe like astronomy. The night sky beckons us to explore our planet, our universe, and our place within it. Kolbe Academy’s high school Astronomy course makes the cosmos accessible, inspiring, and academically rigorous for homeschool families. Whether preparing for college or simply exploring science, this course offers a comprehensive introduction to the universe.
A Flexible, Comprehensive Science Course
Designed for high school students, though often taken in senior year, this course requires no advanced math or prior science background. It introduces foundational astronomy principles through a structured curriculum that supports both traditional homeschoolers and online learners.
Topics Covered Include:
- A brief history of astronomy and major discoveries
- The solar system, stars, and constellations
- Modern tools and methods in astronomy
- Electromagnetic waves and telescopic exploration
- Theories of the universe’s origin and development
- Cosmology, theology, and the possibility of life beyond Earth
Students also get hands-on experience observing the night sky and learning key constellations visible in both summer and winter months.
The Classical Nature of Math & Science
Math and science are intrinsically classical disciplines, rooted in logic, order, and the pursuit of truth. When taught in their true form, they harmonize beautifully with the classical tradition, equipping students with tools to think clearly and reason well.
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A classical approach to science fosters:
- Careful observation and structured thinking
- Deep understanding of principles, not just memorization
- An appreciation of the beauty and order in creation
Astronomy is a prime example of classical learning at the high school level. In the ancient world, it was one of the four core subjects of the quadrivium, the advanced liberal arts, alongside arithmetic, geometry, and music. Far more than stargazing, astronomy was a mathematical and philosophical discipline that revealed the harmony of the cosmos. Over time, this tradition laid the groundwork for what we now call physics.
By studying the cosmos, students step into a tradition that spans centuries of inquiry—one that cultivates wonder, sharpens thinking, and fosters deeper understanding and wisdom. In this way, astronomy helps students meet modern challenges while maintaining intellectual rigor and a sense of meaning.
Kolbe Academy’s Course Materials
We proudly offer high-quality materials to support homeschool families and educators. Our Astronomy course includes a textbook, lab manual, and teacher guide, each designed to work together seamlessly.
Astronomy Textbook
This approachable yet comprehensive textbook, developed from years of classroom experience, covers:
- Fundamentals of astronomy
- Solar system structure and planetary science
- Deep sky topics like galaxies, black holes, and nebulae
- Historical and modern developments in the field
Student Guide and Lab Manual
Hands-on learning is crucial for understanding astronomy. The Astronomy Student Guide and Lab Manual includes:
- Labs for every unit
- A complete supply list and optional keyword worksheets
- Concept maps to visually organize learning
Teacher Guide
Supporting both homeschool and classroom educators, the Teacher Guide includes:
- Answer keys, lab lists, and supply preparation
- Suggestions for enrichment and extended learning
Course Plan
Included with full time enrollment, the astronomy course plan offers clear, weekly structure to guide educators. The course plan includes:
- Key concepts for focused learning
- Daily assignments
- Recommended enhancements to complement learning
- Exams and Exam Answer Keys
Interested in seeing how this course could fit into your curriculum?
Download a free sample of Kolbe Academy’s Astronomy course to explore the textbook, lab manual, teacher guide, and course plan that make this course a standout addition to your high school science offerings.
<<Download Your Free Sample Here>>
