Frequently Asked Questions
What is this site for GCSE Astronomy about?
This is a full study resource and guide that covers the Edexcel specification. Astronomy is one of the most rewarding of science subjects; we aim to promote its study at GCSE level. Our aims in producing this resource has been to create a high quality education tool that is as engaging, accessible and interactive as possible. Students with different learning styles are catered for to enhance teaching and learning. It provides both a teaching tool for teachers and a research and extension tool for students.
What’s special about it?
It features;
- Over 500 webpages
- Over 100 animations and videos
- Over 600 images
- Interactive quizzes and crosswords, examination type questions, activities and external links.
What examination board is GCSE Astronomy offered by?
Edexcel is the only examination body offering this qualification. You can download the specification for the qualification from http://www.edexcel.org.uk
Will you be releasing the resource for the New specification in 2010?
Yes
Who is this resource approved by?
John Cabot Academy is offering this as a resource for other schools. It is not approved or endorsed by any other educational or space organisation.
Who has produced this?
This resource has been produced by Teachers at John Cabot Academy in Kingswood, Bristol. Visit our website at http://www.cabot.ac.uk
What can this course do for my school/college?
Firstly it will provide a full learning experience for users, allowing teachers to concentrate on helping individuals and coursework.
Secondly, some science teachers, although fully confident with other science specifications, have had little exposure to the GCSE Astronomy award. We aim to support them as fully as possible.
Thirdly, students can use this site at school or from home. It is not restricted to Key Stage 4, it can be studied by Key Stage 3 and 5 students and is an advantage for students taking related degree and certificates at higher education. Best of all it can be fitted into the curriculum with other science awards.
Can my students access this from home as well as school?
Yes. When you subscribe you receive a username and password for your school that students can also use from home.
Is this website accessible to all users?
Our site has been made so it is as accessible as possible to all users. It has undergone rigorous usability testing and is W3 validated.
Can I obtain a trial first?
Schools and Colleges can arrange a 30 day trial by contacting us.
What will it cost?
School & Home Internet Access for one year is £99. Unlike many other education software there is no restriction on the numbers of users using this.
Can I use this material for Physics work?
Yes, many schools are using these materials in other curriculum areas.
What does the licence cover?
The site licence allows the software to be installed on every school computer. Students will also be able to use the software from home by accessing it online. The website is updated frequently. These licenses are renewable annually.
What are the restriction of use?
Schools must agree to abide by our terms and conditions and respect our copyright.
What equipment and plug-ins are needed to view this software?
Basically no extra software will be needed that isn't already installed on the average school computer. Specifications are below.
- An internet browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox. Ideally this will be Javascript and CSS enabled. Most settings allow this.
- Macromedia Flash plug-in (downloadable)
- Microsoft Excel viewer (downloadable)
- This software can also be used on an Apple PC
Will there be adverts or advert pop-ups on the site?
No
I'm not at a School, Can I use these materials?
The qualification is not open to private individuals as a school or college must validate your coursework and sit an examination. Some schools are willing to enter private individuals but you must check with them first.
