Science
Improving a young person's understanding of and enthusiasm for science is at the heart of the Government's commitment to encourage more pupils and students to study science subjects. A good science education is not only vital preparation for scientific literacy later in life: by continuing to study science throughout school and college, young people open themselves up to a world of possibilities. Today a career in science promises some of the best business and job prospects on offer.
This area of TeacherNet points to guidance, ideas and resources for science teachers.
News
Nurturing tomorrow's scientists —
Science at Key Stage 4
You can now read or download this booklet here.
The new Triple Science Support Programme
From September 2008, all students who have achieved Level 6 in Science
at Key Stage 3 will be entitled to study GCSEs in physics, chemistry and
biology ('Triple Science').
The Learning and Skills Network (LSN) — with partners the Science Learning Centres, The Institute of Physics, The Institute of Biology and The Royal Society of Chemistry — is launching the Triple Science Support Programme in autumn 2007 to help schools plan, prepare and deliver the triple science entitlement.
Every school will have different needs as it develops its offer — particularly in the areas of:
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increasing subject-specific expertise
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curriculum development and modelling
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strategies for raising attainment
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developing collaborative approaches between schools and other learning providers to deliver Triple Science.
LSN's support programme is geared to meet those needs and will provide a wide range of free support including: publications; newsletters; networks; and training and consultancy to targeted schools. More information can be found at the Triple Science Support Programme website.
Triple science will not only be a requirement for schools with Level 6 achievers, but will also benefit many students. They will enjoy the pursuit of knowledge and increased understanding of science which Triple Science provides — and many students will decide to progress to one or more of the science A levels.
To find out how your school can get involved, contact the LSN helpline on 0845 071 0800 or visit the Triple Science Support Programme website.
A new programme of
study
A new programme of study for science was introduced in September 2006. OCR has
launced a dedicated a GCSE science website for teachers and centres looking to
teach its new specifications.
ICT in science teaching
For practical help on using ICT in your teaching, visit Learning and
Teaching Using ICT — Practical Support Pack, a TeacherNet website
which has lesson plans, multimedia resources, video case studies and ICT
support materials. Written by experts in teaching subjects using ICT, and with
the support of the Primary and Secondary National Strategies, the support
pack has everything needed to teach science using ICT, from preparation
and planning to homework and evaluation.
A national network of
Science Learning Centres
Science Learning Centres have been set up in partnership with the DCSF and the
Wellcome Trust. The centres deliver high-quality continuing professional
development for both teachers, technicians and classroom assistants, from
primary to post-16.
Resources
Teaching resources for science
A list of lesson plan providers, revision notes, online activities, association
websites and other sources of inspiration for primary and secondary pupils.
Teachers' recommendations
Forums and chat rooms are a great way to share ideas with fellow
science teachers and pick up tips, as are lists of favourite or popular
websites.
- Nuffield Curriculum Centre explores new approaches to teaching and learning in various subjects including science. The science discussion forum can be found under Curriculum issues where you can post your own comments.
- The Education Forum hosts discussions on all curriculum subjects. Join the science forum to chat about science curriculum issues, pick up useful site suggestions and ask for advice.
- Teachers magazine regularly asks teachers to name their favourite sites.
Supply teachers' study materials
Supply teachers will find guidance here on keeping
up-to-date with current practice in the classroom and educational initiatives.
The science material is organised according to primary and secondary schools and includes study
approaches.
Teacher-training
resources
The Association for Science Education has information on resources being
developed for teacher training.
The Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Network (STEMNET)
STEMNET is a collaborative force of nearly 100 member organisations that
seeks to stimulate the interests of young people in science, technology,
engineering and mathematics, and in pursuing careers related to these
subjects.
Teaching in
England
Overseas teachers looking for a primer on the education
system in England and guidance on how to deliver the curriculum will find it all here. Each Key Stage is
looked at in detail. Teaching resources relating to core subjects are
signposted.
Teachers TV
Launched in February 2005, Teachers TV offers a wealth of resources for
teachers, including curriculum-based programmes for use in the classroom.
Last updated: 30 November 2007
