About the Science IS activities
Learning experiences … refocused to emphasise how the NoS and DSSA and contextual strands can be integrated.
The Science IS activities are example learning experiences that have been refocused to emphasise how the NoS, DSSA, and contextual strands can be integrated. Each activity is a single activity; it may be undertaken as a standalone activity or as part of a science unit.
The activity webpage: There are three key parts to each activity webpage: ‘rationale’, ‘integrated strands’ and ‘activity’.
Rationale
The rationale describes how this learning experience provides an opportunity for students to simultaneously explore a science concept, a nature of science theme and develop a specific scientific skill or attitude.
Integrated strands
The integrated strands identify the learning strands that have been integrated in this activity.
Science concept
The science concept to be explored through this activity (suggested by a contextual strand).
NoS theme
A specific concept about the nature of science. Each theme links to professional development notes, supporting concepts, and a list of other activities that explore the same theme.
See also: Making sense of the nature of science, Using the themes and focuses.
DSSA investigation focus
A specific idea about classroom science that teachers can use when planning and guiding student investigations. Each focus links to professional development notes, supporting concepts, and a list of other activities that share the same focus.
See also: Developing scientific skills and attitudes, Using the themes and focuses.
Activity
Curriculum level
Suggested curriculum level for this activity.
Contextual strand
The broad learning context for this activity.
Topic
The major area of study/context for this activity.
Type(s) of investigation
Each activity may present an opportunity for one or more type of investigation. See also: Types of investigation.
What you need
Material and equipment required for this activity. Online activity resources such as downloadable activity sheets and links to reference websites are provided at the bottom of each activity web page.
Focus
Questions to elicit and address students’ current understandings of:
- the science concept
- the NoS theme
- the processes involved in carrying out the investigation.
Exploration
A suggested way of carrying out the activity, what students will be doing to investigate the science concept.
Extension
Ways this activity may be refocused or progressed further.
Reflection
Questions encouraging students to reflect on:
- what they have learned about the science concept
- what they have learned about the nature of science
- the investigation they have carried out.
Activity resources
Reference publications, downloadable documents (activity sheets, images, and so on) and website links.