Signs and Seasons
Understanding the Elements of Classical Astronomy
by Jay Ryan
Reviewed by Martha Robinson
Purchase details: Signs and Seasons, Understanding the Elements of Classical Astronomy By Jay Ryan. Large Hardcover, 280 pages, $39.99. Field Journal and Test Manual, paperback, 180 pages, $15.49. Published by Classical Astronomy. Please support HomeschoolChristian.com by buying this program from our Christian Book Distributors link or Amazon affiliate link.
"Astronomy is one of the most important subjects in all human history." This provocative statement begins Signs & Seasons, a book that re-introduces classical astronomy to a new generation. Classical astronomy is concerned with the study of the movement of celestial bodies, the sun, moon, and stars, via visual observation, as opposed to modern astronomy which is an activity involving measurements, instruments, and devices often used by scientists.
In ancient times, classical astronomy gave people a way to measure the hours, months, seasons, and years. In the absence of artificial time keepers like clocks, everyone needed to understand the passage of time as it related to the sky. Astronomy was truly an every day concern.
So, why is classical astronomy important in the modern world? Mr. Ryan offers that it will give families a better appreciation of God's magnificent works. Additionally, the study of classical astronomy will give one a better understanding of the Bible and history.
Signs & Seasons makes study of this subject very easy for the layman. Profuse illustrations throughout the seven chapters show exactly what the author is describing, and appropriate quotations from the Bible, historic figures, and almanacs add interest. The author relates the study of astronomy to history with a fascinating discussion of the evolution of the calendar.
Thirty-seven pages of activities related to the text appear in the back of the book. Using simple materials, students can apply all they have learned and more using the clear directions provided. Mr. Ryan encourages observation, journalling, and creativity in studying the sky.
The appendix includes a number of useful items. A glossary explains all terms in detail, while a "biographia," tells a bit about each of the figures quoted throughout the book. Astronomical tables, a reading list, a bibliography, and an index complete the appendix.
Field Journal and Test Manual
Jay Ryan wrote the Field Journal and Test Manual to assist families who needed documentation to give high school credit for astronomy using Signs & Seasons; however, the manual offers more than just record keeping! Step-by-step instructions for observations and activities for each of the seven chapters in the book are included, along with ample places to record all the student's findings. Detailed tests and answer keys are also provided. The Volvelle Section has pages that can be copied and cut out to create "wheel calculators" to better understand the motions of the sun, moon, and stars.
Recommendation: Signs & Seasons is a fascinating book. Its beautiful cover will grab children's interest immediately, and the descriptive illustrations will allow parents with no knowledge of the subject to grasp it quickly. The activities are plentiful so a family can pick and choose. Not only will Signs & Seasons put you more in touch with God's creation as the author suggests, but also it will bring your family closer as you gaze at the heavens together.
The Field Journal and Test Manual reaches its goal of being "a workbook for establishing high school credit." More importantly, it makes completion of Signs & Seasons more attainable by helping busy parents implement the program easily.
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