In the last decade, numerous reports have been published calling for reform in education.

Each report has highlighted the importance of early experiences in science so that students develop problem-solving skills that empower them to participate in an increasingly scientific and technological world. (National Science Teachers Association, 2012) It is nothing short of a miracle that the modern methods of instruction have not yet entirely strangled the holy curiosity of inquiry (Albert Einstein, Ideas and Opinions, 1995).

1. Advocate incorporating science content, to the fullest extent possible, applicable to the PYP four strands of science, in the schools program of inquiry for years 3, 4 and 5. As a part of this process my intention is to continue to assess the Units of Inquiry, alongside Anita Knight, in the aim to ensure that all the Science strands are represented in the Primary years.

2. Create some standardized science templates for recording science investigations and the thinking process e.g.: Design, Create, Appraise or a Science Investigation template
Science activity/Investigation student reflection
Activity or Investigation:__________________________________________________ Highlight the Science Strand Focus:__________________________________________

Highlight the Science Skill(s) applied write in your own words why you think this skill(s) was used:_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________
a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. Observe carefully in order to gather data Use a variety of instruments and tools to measure accurately Use scientific vocabulary to explain your observations and experiences Identify or generate a question or problem to be explored Plan and carry out a systematic investigation Make and test predictions Interpret and evaluate data gathered in order to draw conclusions Consider scientific models and applications of these models

Self-Assessment: What understandings or wonderings did you consider?____________________

___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________

3. Further the teaching of the eight science skills as outlined in the PYP Science scope and sequence: Observe carefully in order to gather data Use a variety of instruments and tools to measure accurately Use scientific vocabulary to explain their observations and experiences Identify or generate a question or problem to be explored Plan and carry out systematic investigations Make and test predictions Interpret and evaluate data gathered in order to draw conclusions Consider scientific models and applications of these models

4. Work with teachers in each year level to promote and build on science inquiry and concepts within AIS. I hope to develop a Teacher Inquiry Group to develop and build on science activities and investigations on each of the year levels.

5. Support in the provision of adequate resources for science investigations and activities.

 Katie

Boardman (Year Five) and Felicity Woodhams (Year Three) have kindly opted to be year level representatives for science. can contact me via dropping into C29, in Year Four or stuart_mann@ais.com.sg

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