Primary Science: Taking the Plunge

Description

When Primary Science was first published, it provided such valuable insight into the teacher’s role in the science classroom that it quickly became the standard against which all other methods texts were measured. Now, sixteen years later, Wynne Harlen has revised her classic text, updating it with the most recent and pertinent research, while preserving the parts that have endured and need no change. Primary Science is written for preservice and inservice classroom teachers in primary, elementary, and middle schools. It is particularly aimed at generalist teachers, who may not see themselves as "science teachers," yet have to teach science. But is also for science specialists and curriculum directors or leaders who are attempting to ensure that students’ science activities offer genuine learning experiences. To that end, the book provides direct and detailed advice on what kinds of questions teachers should ask, how teachers can respond to children’s "difficult" questions, how to develop and assess children’s process skills, and how to support children’s understandings through inquiry. No other text is quite so accessible. The ideas Harlen presents are firmly grounded in classroom practice and illustrated by numerous classroom examples. Each chapter ends with a summary of main points that will enable readers to locate advice quickly and refer back to detailed discussions. Review: Great for elementary teachers! - This book was a required text for my science methods class. I found this book not only necessary for the class, but full of information that I know I will use in my own classroom. I did not sell this book back but instead added it to the "few" books that I have kept throughout my courses. The ideas presented in this book are ones that will help me to be a better science teacher, and engage my students in science. I highly recommend this book for elementary teachers that will be teaching science! Review: Primary Science: Take the Plunge - I am using this book in a college course were we read and do discussions on the chapters. The chapter subjects are somewhat boring to me, but the ideas on how to teach elementary students how to start observing the surroundings in their community, in relation to the scientific process. Teaching them how to properly observe and communicate at an early age is very important. Not bad, chapters are to the point and there are only 9 chapters to read. With the school systems being in the process of changing to common core standards, this book gives excellent ideas on how to engage students in their learning. Teach them how to explore, explain what they have found in their research. It also talks about making your classroom a supportive one that encourages communication among all students. I like the book.