Explores the latest research and thinking on the most effective ways to help students learn science; A comprehensive introductory chapter acts as an advance organiser for all the major issues that are exemplified in later chapters; Case studies and vignettes illustrate how teachers have applied constructivist learning sequences in their classrooms, helping readers to see the teaching and learning suggestions 'in action'; Numerous examples throughout demonstrate teaching strategies that align with a constructivist perspective; Summaries of primary students' alternative conceptions in the various science content areas help readers to appreciate the ideas their students may hold; Concepts and understandings for primary teachers are included at the end of Chapters 3 - 12, allowing readers to audit their own understanding of various content areas; A wide range of activities throughout the text enable readers to interact with the text and be more metacognitive about their learning.

Table of Contents

1. Teaching primary science constructively; 2. Thinking and working scientifically; 3. Movement and force; 4. Electricity; 5. Energy; 6. Minibeasts: Linking science and design technology; 7. Living things and environments; 8. Materials; 9. Materials and change; 10. Our place in space; 11. Our planet Earth; 12. Weather and our environment.