Science
As part of the Primary PGCE course all trainees complete the science course designed to provide an excellent basis for the teaching of science in the primary years (5-11 years). As well as a strong school-based element this course includes workshops on each area of science to be taught in the primary years including sound, light, habitats, materials and many more.
Taught Course
As well as covering personal subject knowledge workshops cover the important aspect of how to present these concepts to younger and older primary children. Other professional aspects are dealt with including topics such as assessment, record keeping and target setting, exploiting links with literacy and numeracy and other aspects including safety.
School Based Tasks
A number of tasks are carried out by trainees in school. These tasks are related to teaching and learning and provide essential experiences and a bank of fieldwork which helps to inform the science essay.
Personal Learning
Trainees are expected to take personal responsibility for their own learning. Thus trainees keep a log and maintain an action plan for their own learning of science and teaching science in the primary years.
- Learning Matters
QTS Science Self Test - SCIcentre
Science background knowledge for QTS Primary
- Forces Study Booklet (Microsoft Word, 312 KB)
- Materials Study Booklet (Microsoft Word, 160 KB)
Practical Teaching
Trainees on this programme have opportunity to observe a number of science lesson taught be experienced teachers. In addition thay are asked to team teach in school and then take responsibility for two series of science lessons.
The course leader is Alan Cross, PhD
Useful Links
- The Association for Science Education
find out more about science teaching - Pond Explorer
a virtual pond dip