EMS441 Curriculum Method 1: Science (8)

Abstract

This subject explores science education as a medium for the development of adolescence learning in secondary schools. Years 7-10 syllabi are contextualises within the framework of a national curriculum framework. Curriculum materials and research in science education are also explored which provides the context for a developmental framework for science education. Promoting skills in selecting, planning and implementing lessons and teaching sequences within a constructivist learning model that are linked to the current secondary curriculum documents. An understanding of the nature of science, diverse learners, safety issues and the application of information and communication technologies in science teaching are explored.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 1
Distance	Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: EMS441
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration	Grading System	School:
One session	HD/FL	School of Education

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

describe the nature of science as a mode of human enquiry and its potential as a medium for the development of secondary school children, including subject based literacy and numeracy;
apply teaching/learning models in science education to the development and design of teaching modules, lesson sequences and individual lesson;
account for the influence of a learner's prior experiences and naive understanding of scientific ideas and how these affect a teacher's preparation and programming to develop scientific understanding of concepts;
construct a program outline for secondary school science which is consistent with current curriculum statements;
access the range of resource materials available to support the teaching of science-based topics in the secondary school;
design lessons and lesson sequences which employ a range of teaching styles to achieve differentiated education outcomes for a diverse range of students;
select and apply appropriate assessment and evaluation techniques that focus on using an assessment of learning framework for formative and diagnostic purposes;
approach teaching experiences with confidence in their own ability to organise and manage formal learning activities;
appreciate laboratory safety, risk management and occupational health and safety matters as they relate to science teaching and learning; and
incorporate the use of information and communication technologies, including data-loggers, as part the lesson design and implementation process.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:

the nature of science and the relationship between an individual�s view of science and their view of science teaching;
student�s prior knowledge/pre-conceived ideas in science and how to promote conceptual change;
the Australian Curriculum for Science K � 10;
strategies for teaching science;
levels of planning for science teaching; whole school=>unit planning=>lesson planning;
awareness of diverse learning populations and Life Skill Outcomes;
the importance of investigation in teaching science, including consideration of safety issues;
using ICT in science teaching;
literacy and numeracy in science;
assessment in science with a particular focus on formative and diagnostic assessment;
evidence based programs promoting thinking skills in science.

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