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Teaching Science in the Primary Classroom
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Teaching Science in the Primary Classroom

Third Edition
Edited by:


March 2016 | 248 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
Who was right about gravity - Aristotle or Galileo? Do woodlice like the damp or the sunshine?

Now in full colour, the new edition of this core textbook is packed full of exciting ideas and methods to help trainees and teachers looking for creative ways of teaching science to primary school children. It's the perfect step-by-step guide for anyone teaching science for the first time.

Reflecting the new curriculum, the third edition has been extensively updated throughout and now includes:

·        a brand new chapter on teaching science outdoors

·         lots of guidance on how to work scientifically in the classroom

·         a new focus on assessment of ‘secondary readiness’

·         new activities and case studies, with helpful links to developing scientific skills

With practical examples, case studies, clear guidance on how to turn theory into creative practice, and lots of ideas for lively science lessons and activities, this is the ideal book for anyone studying primary science on initial teacher education courses, and  teachers looking for new ideas to use in the classroom.

Hellen Ward
1. What is Science?
Hellen Ward
2. The Skills Learners Need to Learn Science: Process Skills
Judith Roden
3. Observation, Measurement and Classification
Judith Roden
4. Raising and Analysing Questions and Use of Secondary Sources
Hellen Ward
5. Scientific Enquiry and Working Scientifically
Hellen Ward and Keith Remnant
6. Assessing Learning
Claire Hewlett
7. Science from Stories
Maria Elsham and Julie Foreman
8. Using Role-play to Stimulate and Develop Learners’ Understanding of Scientific Concepts
Hellen Ward
9. Science from Games
Manette Carroll and Hellen Ward
10. Using Computers in Science
Andrew Berry
11. Science Outdoors

A very informative book which I have already made considerable use of in our Primary Science workshops, in addition to highly recommending as an essential text. It contains a good balance of theory and practical and is particularly good for cross curricular links.

Mrs Miriam Catherine Jones
Sch of Education & Lifelong Learning, University of East Anglia
October 13, 2016

This is an excellent text that supports the teaching of primary science. There is a real sense of authority and a great range of ideas. The fact that this edition is in colour is very appealing.

Mr James Archer
Carnegie Faculty of Sports & Education, Leeds Beckett University
October 13, 2016

This new addition uses new and updated activities, case studies and practical examples to help current and training teachers teach primary science. The text has been aligned to the new curriculum with good coverage of process skills, scientific enquiry and assessment. The authors highlight how fun and engaging activities support the teaching of primary science through effective linking of theory with practice. The addition of colour makes the book easier to navigate and read. I recommend this title as essential reading for all teacher trainees and qualified teachers wanting to teach science creatively.

Mr Manish Kothari
School of Edu. Theology and Leadership, St Mary's University, Twickenham
May 5, 2016

Engaging and accessible guide

Mrs Jessica Baines-Holmes
School of Education, Brighton University
June 16, 2016

Sample Materials & Chapters

Chapter 1: What is Science?


Hellen Ward

Hellen Ward is actively involved in science education, working as a Principal lecturer at Canterbury Christ Church University and with teachers in a number of Local Authorities. Hellen has written several books and a number of other publications, and has developed teaching resources and teaching materials to support the teaching and learning of science. She has also contributed to science television programmes, website and teaching resources for the BBC Hellen is faculty Director for STEM at Christ Church and is also an independent education consultant. Hellen is an active member of the Association for Science Education (ASE). and a... More About Author

Judith Roden

Judith Roden is an experienced teacher of science in all phases of education. She was a Principal Lecturer working in the Faculty of Education, Canterbury Christ Church University, where she undertook the role of crossphase science team leader, managing a large team of science tutors. She has written a number of science books including the Reflective Reader in Primary Science Education, co-wrote Extending Knowledge in Practice as well a number of books, articles and chapters in respected science books. Judith now works part time for Teach First Kent and Medway. More About Author