PSC 203 – Elementary Astronomy Spring 2009Writing Across the Curriculum: The Skyassigned: March 26, 2009due: April 9, 2009Purpose: ● to think about what you will see in the sky over time● to practice your written communication skillsBasic Instructions:● Choose ONE of the topic options listed on the back side of this sheet.● Research a lit bit about your topic if needed.● Include all of the information requested for the topic.● Follow the format instructions listed below.● Contact your instructor for clarification if needed. Format Instructions:● All writing assignments must be typed.● Please use an easily readable font, in a 12 or 14 point size. ● There is no specific length requirement as long as you have all of the required information in your paper. ● Check your paper for spelling and grammar errors. Papers with significant mistakes will receive a lower grade. Grading Information:Papers will be graded based on the following factors:● Does the paper follow the format instructions● Does the paper contain spelling or grammar errors● Does the paper flow well and have a logical progression● Does the paper include all of the required points for the selected topic● Does the paper have accurate factual information.Topic Choices:You only need to write about ONE of the following topics. Once you choose Choice A: Make a constellationIn this option, you are creating your own constellation on the blank star chart and writing a story about the constellation. You may NOT use an existing constellation• Obtain the two star charts from your instructor (the summer and the winter)• Draw a stick figure version of the constellation by connecting some of the dots on one of the blank star charts (turn in with paper)• Name the constellation• Indicate where you would look in the sky to see the constellation and in which time of the year• Write a one paragraph description of its appearance (I may not see the same shape you are trying to show)• Write a short (2-3 paragraphs) narrative of about the constellation. Including at least one of the following ◦ Why it is meaningful to you◦ How you came up with the idea of the constellation ◦ Or a “mythology” of the constellation. Choice B: Watch an EclipseIn this option you are writing about a solar eclipse that you want to see. Use the solar eclipse website : http://www.mreclipse.com/Special/SEnext.htmlYou are allowed to choose either a future eclipse or a past eclipse (imagine you could time travel if needed). • Print out the "Global Map" for your eclipse date• Clearly indicate the date and type of the eclipse• Indicate where on Earth you want to view the eclipse from ◦ (check the Global map to make sure that you can really see it from that location)• Explain why you choose this eclipse and viewing location including factors such as◦ your age at the time of the eclipse◦ your likely circumstances at that time (job, family, etc)◦ the ease (or adventure) of travel to the location ◦ your personal interest in the location (culture, family history, hobbies, …)◦ probable weather at the location on the eclipse