The Essential Cosmic Perspective

By Megan O. Donahue, Jeffrey O. Bennett, Nicholas Schneider, et al.

Book Overview

For one-semester courses in astronomy.

A practical introduction to Astronomy with an emphasis on critical thinking about our place in the universe

This 8th Edition of Essential Cosmic Perspective provides readers without science backgrounds with a streamlined, cutting-edge introduction to astronomy. Built on a strong tradition of effective pedagogy and coverage, the text focuses on skill-building and includes group work exercises that require active participation. Dedicated to bringing an understanding of the universe, its scientific basis and its relevance to our lives, each chapter is written to specific learning goals that build an ideal learning path for readers. Aiming to foster a lifelong learning experience, the authors focus on key concepts, providing big picture context, promoting conceptual understanding, and preferring plain language to jargon.

The 8th Edition incorporates the latest scientific updates in the field of astronomy and includes new features that reinforce critical thinking and excite readers' curiosity. New features such as Extraordinary Claims engage readers by presenting extraordinary claims about the universe and how they were either supported or debunked as scientists collected more evidence, reinforcing the process of science and how scientists think critically to evaluate them. My Cosmic Perspective establishes a personal connection between readers and the cosmos as they learn to think critically about the meaning of what they learn in their astronomy studies and beyond. Designed and written for a one semester course, this text shares many of the strengths of its more comprehensive best-selling sibling, The Cosmic Perspective.

Also available with Mastering Astronomy

MasteringTM Astronomy is the leading online homework, tutorial, and assessment system, designed to improve results by engaging students with vetted, interactive content. Instructors ensure students arrive ready to learn by assigning new Interactive Prelecture videos that give students exposure to key concepts before class and open classroom time for active learning or deeper discussions of topics. With Learning CatalyticsTM instructors can expand on key concepts and encourage student engagement during lecture through questions answered individually or in pairs and groups. Students further master concepts through book-specific Mastering Astronomy assignments, which provide hints and answer-specific feedback that build problem-solving skills. Mastering Astronomy now features Virtual Astronomy Labs, providing assignable online laboratory activities that use Stellarium and Interactive Figures.

Note: You are purchasing a standalone product; MasteringTM Astronomy does not come packaged with this content. Students, if interested in purchasing this title with Mastering Astronomy, ask your instructor for the correct package ISBN and Course ID. Instructors, contact your Pearson representative for more information.

If you would like to purchase both the physical text and Mastering Astronomy, search for:

0134516338 / 9780134516332 Essential Cosmic Perspective Plus Mastering Astronomy with eText, The -- Access Card Package

Package consists of:

0134509293 / 9780134509297 Mastering Astronomy with Pearson eText -- ValuePack Access Card -- for Essential Cosmic Perspective, The 0134446437 / 9780134446431 Essential Cosmic Perspective, The

Essential Cosmic Perspective, 8th Edition is also available via Pearson eText, a simple-to-use, mobile, personalized reading experience that lets instructors connect with and motivate students - right in their eTextbook. Learn more.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0134446437
• ISBN13: 9780134446431
• Release Date: January 2017
• Publisher: Pearson
• Length: 608 Pages
• Weight: 3.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 9.6" x 10.7"

Customer Reviews

Excellent & Easy to Understand Intro to Astronomy

I used this textbook as prep for the Astronomy DSST, something it worked very well for (I passed with an 18-point margin using this and InstantCert). The book is an easy read considering the subject material. Small summary insets help for those who needs to skim (as I did occasionally). The two chapters on the Big Bang and Life on other Planets are placed at the end. I skipped them without a problem. The pictures and illustrations were of the highest quality -- and easy to understand as well. I'd recommend this textbook as a fine introduction to Astronomy.

Cool Textbook ( If that even exist )

I didnt use it as much as I thought I would but what I did enjoy about this textbook is the amount of visual aids and pictures. It has beautiful colors and diagrams to describe hard concepts. Very understanding and overall great approach to talking about astrology , id say ..

greta purchase

The book is in great condition and I paid 2$. I got in 2 days with regular shipping!

Good Introductory Text

This was an easy to use and understand text; excellent for any introductory course in astronomy.

Everything you want to know, plus a great CDRom!

This book is really good, especially for those interested in the universe and its formation. It also comes with a CDRom with video clips and a study guide for students. A useful, and interesting book!