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Primary Science Education: A Teacher's Toolkit is an accessible and comprehensive guide to primary school science education and its effective practice in the classroom. Primary Science Education is structured in two parts: Planning for Science and Primary Science in the Classroom. Each chapter covers fundamental topics, such as: curriculum requirements (including the Australian Curriculum and Australian Professional Standards for Teachers); preparing effective learning sequences with embedded authentic assessment; combining science learning with other learning areas, such as technologies and STEM; and critically analysing the teacher's role in the classroom. The text features short-answer and 'Bringing it Together' questions to encourage readers to consolidate their understanding of key themes. Case studies throughout provide guidance on the classroom experience and Teacher Background Information boxes explore topics where more in-depth knowledge is required. The book is supported by a suite of online resources, including interviews with Australian primary teachers and students, and downloadable activities.
List of contents
Part I. Planning for Science: 1. Why do we teach science in primary school?; 2. What does the primary science curriculum include?; 3. How can students demonstrate their learning in science?; 4. How do I plan effective learning sequences in primary science?; 5. What is my role when teaching primary science?; Part II. Primary Science in the Classroom: 6. What are some examples of successful units of work for different years?; 7. How can I use technologies to support learning in primary science?; 8. How can I use other learning areas to support learning in primary science?; 9. Which cross-curriculum priorities 'fit' with which science topics?; 10. How can STEM education enable students' understanding of science concepts?; 11. What else do I need to know when teaching primary science?
About the author
Anne Forbes (Ph.D.) has a wide range of science-related experiences including being a Plant Pathology researcher, primary school science teacher, and currently, a university researcher and educator in primary school science education. She describes her role as 'finding effective ways to open doors to the world of science and STEM for young learners and their teachers'. Anne understands the importance of knowing state and territory science curriculum requirements, what to focus on, and how to teach key science concepts. This text presents a range of ideas for your consideration developed from her years of experience combined with the latest educational research and curriculum documents.
Summary
Primary educators can feel overwhelmed by the knowledge required to teach science concepts. Primary Science Education: A Teacher's Toolkit is an accessible and comprehensive guide to primary school science education and its effective practice in the classroom.
