Task A - Unaided Observation
Introduction
An unaided observation means a naked eye observation. You are not to use a telescope or binoculars. If you compare the the lists of tasks for the unaided and aided observations you will see that the expectations are different.
Basically you are required to do the following;
Choosing your task
Your teacher should provide you with the list to choose from. This list is not the same every year.
You should choose your task carefully. See bottom of page for the 2011 list.
Ask yourself;
is there a meteor shower, eclipse or other celestial event due soon?
do I live somewhere where visibility is good?
Is the weather likely to be suitable to view what I want to see?
Is this the best time of year to see what I want to see?
You should discuss your ideas with your teacher before making a decision.
Carrying out your observations
You will probably make your observations over a period of time although some (e.g. observing an eclipse or meteor shower) may be carried out in a single evening. For the shadow stick observation this should be done on at least two different days when the equation of time is different. Observing different constellations is better done at different times also.
| Observational details | Detail | Terminology |
| You must make a note of location (place and coordinates), dates, times, visibility and weather conditions for each observation. | You must show that you have taken care to make accurate
detailed observations. For example The magnitude and colour of stars. Labelling stars and constellations on charts |
You should show your knowledge of astronomy here. For example; If observing the magnitude of stars you are comparing them with known reference stars. Referring correctly to phases and features on the Moon Using terms like culmination, first contact, radiant etc correctly. |
Writing it up
You will bring your sketches and lots of other notes, on paper, into a controlled session. Under the supervision of a teacher you will write up your report using your observations and notes. You should have about 6 hours to do this (and 6 hours for task B). This should be carried out in a computer room so that you have access to word processing etc, but not the internet.
What will you get marks for?
For each of the 4 sections below there are 5 marks available so there is a total of 20 marks for this task. To get full marks for each section I have said what you must do, according to the mark scheme your teacher will use.
Design
Detailed astronomical knowledge and understanding used to design the most appropriate observing programme with a range of sites, times and instruments evaluated.
Spelling, punctuation and grammar used with considerable accuracy. Good range of astronomical terminology used correctly.
Observation
Excellent programme of observations completed and recorded, providing conclusive data for the task.
Full observational details included clearly and accurately.
Analysis
Full analysis of the observational data, resulting in clear conclusions related to the task set.
Spelling, punctuation and grammar used with considerable accuracy. Good range of astronomical terminology used correctly.
Evaluation
Clearly reasoned quantitative assessment of the accuracy of the observational data obtained.
Detailed suggestions for improvements or extensions to the observations.
Spelling, punctuation and grammar used with considerable accuracy. Good range of astronomical terminology used correctly.
The Unaided List for examination in 2011