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Published: 24/04/2009

Extent: 144 pages

Series: Connecting Science

 

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Summary:

Connecting Science is a new enquiry based course that offers complete flexibility to enable personalised learning outcomes across Key Stage 3.

 

The unit plans in the Teacher’s Guide present Core Lessons and a choice of Options (further activities) for each topic, matching the spreads in the Connecting Science Pupil’s Guide. Core Lessons include detailed teaching notes based on the 5-E teaching approach (Engage, Explore, Explain, Extend and Evaluate). Suggested timings for Core and Options lessons can be adapted to accommodate different lesson lengths. Teachers can select Options for each topic to consolidate specific enquiry skills or to motivate and personalise learning for different pupils.

 

Learning objectives and levelled outcomes are listed for each Core and Option lesson, as well as personal learning and thinking skills outcomes. Self-assessment checklists for pupils break down levelled targets into accessible language for Assessment for Learning.

 

Each lesson plan lists the digital resources provided on the Dynamic Learning CD-ROM. These resources:

 

-support the pupils in planning open-ended enquiry and research

-show how to think scientifically, analyse and communicate results

• ‘Core Lessons’ provide planned progression in each topic

• ‘Options’ take advantage of the reduction of content in the revised Science Programme of Study to offer opportunities for personalised learning

• ‘Options’ also allow teachers to choose different ‘flavours’ of course or plan a 2-year KS3

• Teacher resources support the assessment for learning with key questions, interactive assessment tasks to check progress and simplified interpretations of subject and Sc1 levels for each context

• Each lesson plan linked to interactive resources available on networkable CD

• Assessment for learning activities and self-assessment record sheets aid progression in how science works.

About the Author(s):

Lynn Chapman originally worked in bio-industries and medical diagnostics before training as a science teacher at the Institute of Education, London. She then taught in a number of secondary schools heading a biology department and went on to become a Senior Lecturer, running the training programme for postgraduate and GTP science trainees at the University of Hertfordshire. She also provides CPD courses (through the science learning centres and the ASE), and writes curriculum materials. Lynn is actively involved in research looking at the effectiveness of teacher training in promoting constructivist teaching practices.

David E.Quinn originally trained as a physics teacher and subsequently managed a science department in the north east of England. He then moved into the primary sector, becoming Headteacher, while continuing to develop curriculum materials for science. He currently divides his time between initial teacher training, providing CPD courses (through the science learning centres and the ASE), and writi

Readership:
Key Stage 3 Teachers