The Teaching of Science in Primary Schools

by Wynne Harlen

The Teaching of Science in Primary Schools provides essential information for all concerned with primary school education about all aspects of teaching science. It pays particular attention to inquiry-based teaching and learning because of the more general educational benefits that follow from using this approach. These benefits are often expressed in terms of developing general scientific literacy and fostering the ability to learn and the motivation to continue learning. This book also aims to help teachers focus on the ‘big’ or powerful ideas of science rather than teaching a series of unrelated facts. This leads children to an understanding of the nature, and limitations, of scientific activity.

This fully expanded and updated edition explores:

The compelling reasons for starting science in the primary school.

Within-school planning in the context of less prescriptive national requirements.

The value of having in mind the ‘big ideas’ of science.

The opportunities for children to learn through greater access to the internet and social networking.

The expanding sources of materials and guidance now available to teachers on-line.

Greater attention to school and teacher self-evaluation as a means of improving provision for children’s learning.

The importance for both teachers and learners of reflecting on the process and content of their activities.

Other key aspects of teaching, such as:- questioning, the importance of discussion and dialogue, the formative and summative roles of assessment and strategies for helping children to develop understanding, skills, positive attitudes and enjoyment of science, are preserved. So also is the learner-centred approach with an emphasis on children learning to take some responsibility for their activities. This book is essential reading for all primary school teachers and those on primary education courses.

Genres: Science

393 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1987

About the author

Wynne Harlen has spent a lifetime as a teacher, researcher, and author in science education. Until recently, she was Director of the Scottish Council for Research in Education and before that was Professor of Science Education and Head of the Education Department at the University of Liverpool. In 1991, she was honored by the Queen for her services to education. Harlen is now Visiting Professor at the University of Bristol, editor of Primary Science Review, and a consultant to various science projects in the United States and United Kingdom.

Reviews

[Bella · Rating 3 out of 5]

only when you learn a subject you know how much less you know. a good book

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really appreciate this resource and could use it as an ultimate guide to planning & teaching elementary science. Only gripe is the chapter on inclusive science education - the provided descriptions of various learning variations are outdated, stereotyped, and grossly deficit-based.