Science handbook for primary teachers

Abstract

The main goal of the Hands-on Science (H-Sci) network is to promote experimental teaching of Science as a way of improving in-school scientific education and Science literacy in our society. The H-Sci network has a broad remit, aiming to promote and diffuse among schoolteachers, schools, and national and transnational educational boards, well established and newly investigated practices of hands-on experimental teaching of Science in all its disciplines. It fosters the development and use of hands-on experiments in the classroom so that students "do" science rather than merely be "exposed" to it. A task force has been established under the umbrella of the H-Sci network to co-ordinate a public relations campaign about Science education. This is aimed at students, teachers and educators, schools and the community, Ministries of Education and Education bodies, in a systematic attempt to demonstrate the benefits of an extended use of hands-on learning of Science. Educational kits of hands-on experiments and support material at different levels of complexity are being designed, created and discussed. Textbooks and reports, including electronic interactive versions, are being produced in different languages and disseminated. Initiatives in Hands on Science in Malta have been various. The first year of the project (2003-4) has seen a number of schools joining the network and taking initiatives in introducing hands on activities in Science. In January 2006, a seminar on 'EU Enlargement and Scientific Literacy and Development' was organized. This year, there is among other initiatives, the Musical 'L-Esperimenti ta' Fjona'. The play was first performed by Teatru Qroqq at the St. James Cavalier, Malta. It was produced by Isabelle Gatt directed by Marcelle Teuma with musical arrangements by Sigo, Michelle Cachia Castalletti, Norman Cristina and Derek Grillo. Hands on Science has also supported the Home Science Day in Gozo organized by the Science Centre at the Education Division who is also a partner in Hands On Science. This publication complements the musical 'L-Esperimenti ta' Fjona'. It includes some scientific content, a few practical tips about carrying out the experiments carried out on stage, as well as worksheets which teachers can use in classroom with their students when they go back to school. The intention is to encourage primary teachers to build on the children's experiences and to try out some of the investigations observed on stage - thus having 'hands on science'. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the students who have worked hard both for the performance as well as for the collaborative work in compiling this publication. I hope that you will make good practical use of this booklet.