Understanding how children learn science

Abstract

This chapter will take you through four key ideas about how children learn science, with particular attention to how their concepts develop. These key ideas are illustrated by topics which are included in many primary science curricula: the phases of the moon, heat energy, properties of materials and the seasons. For each topic, you will complete an activity and reflect on your own science concepts before asking children of different ages to do the same activity. By comparing their responses, you can identity what happens as children learn science. This skill is critical when planning effective programs which support children to develop their science concepts. An analysis for each activity is provided, and implications for effective, practical teaching are suggested.