Monthly Archives: February 2019

Key Features of a Good Science Lesson

There are several elements which a good science lesson should consist of.

The first is that the teacher should have a strong understanding of what they are teaching. Even if they are not confident in delivering science, their lesson should be thoroughly researched so that when they deliver it to the children they seem confident. The reason for this is that if the teacher is not enthusiastic or confident about the science lesson the children may notice and may also feel the same about science.

Science lessons should include less copying notes. Lessons should include a range of opportunities for practical work such as experiments and outdoor learning. This is not only because it is more engaging but it is better for developing skills. Sitting taking notes is beneficial in some cases but in terms of developing transferable skills it is not the most appropriate approach. Experiments and enquiries often use a wide range of numeracy skills as pupils often gather, analyse and present data. The lesson should also involve the children being actively involved in the lesson which means they are taking part and asking questions, investigating for themselves. There should also be opportunity for collaborative working as this will help to develop team working skills as well as gaining many different opinions and ideas to help solve the problem they are faced with.

This however is still not enough to create a good science lesson. There has to be a conceptual understanding of what they are learning which means being able to use what they are learning. This comes with connecting the task to the wider world. It is about connecting to the scientific issues that are present in society so that the pupils understand the purpose of what they are doing. If they have an understanding of what they are doing and are developing skills while doing it they will have the necessary tools to understand the world they live in and if they wish, explore a science related career.