Through learning in the sciences, children and young people develop their interest in, and understanding of, the living, material and physical world. They engage in a wide range of collaborative investigative tasks, which allows them to develop important skills to become creative, inventive and enterprising adults in a world where the skills and knowledge of the sciences are needed across all sectors of the economy.
A good science lesson requires you to prepare thoroughly around the Experiences and Outcomes and look at effective ways in which the children can develop the skills they need to become successful learners in science.
Some of the key features in a science lesson discussed include the following:
- Clear learning intention and success criteria so the children know exactly what they should be able to do by the end of the lesson
- Take into consideration the natural curiosity of the children and their desire to create work in a practical creative way
- Teacher should have a strong expertise and enthusiasm for the subject in order to motivate children into learning more about the subject
- Lessons should be practical, engaging and enjoyable for children
- Effective teaching should use a variety of methods including: active learning, planned play, development of problem solving and analytical skills, scientific practical investigations, use of relevant contexts to teach children, use of real materials, living things, effective technology, development of collaborative learning and independent thinking, emphasis on children explaining their own knowledge
- The science related information should be purposeful and relevant to the children. It is important to show the children WHY they are learning science and how the lesson links to aspects of the world around them.
- Relating the lesson to the jobs around them that involve science such as medicine/engineering/forensic science and all other STEM jobs
- Children should be able to develop skills such as being able to observe and explore
- There should be a positive class ethos, so the children feel comfortable and willing to engage in the class lesson and further discussion
- Use of questioning to make sure that the teacher has a clear understanding of what the children now know, and where further development in the lesson could be shown.
These are only some of the important features to a good science lesson. Depending on what area of science you are teaching, you can relate to more features such as the importance of outdoor learning in science for lessons such as eco systems and the water cycle. You can also Provide further opportunities for learning through the use of field trips and visits to science museums for children to broaden their understanding of science and its importance to our everyday lives.
