EBOOK: Enhancing Primary Science: Developing Effective Cross-Curricular Links

Lois Kelly · Di Stead

Feb 2013 · McGraw-Hill Education (UK)

About this ebook

How can other subjects in the primary curriculum enhance the teaching and learning of primary science? The key argument in the book is that children’s learning is enriched through both discrete subject teaching and cross-curricular approaches to the curriculum and that children become more effective learners when they make links between the different subjects.

This book gives helpful insights into why making effective cross-curricular links enriches science and discusses when and how to make effective and authentic links between science and other subjects. Each chapter tackles a particular subject and considers how it can enhance science learning through a variety of approaches and a wealth of ideas for the classroom. Written in a clear, accessible and informative style, this book:

• Includes contributions from a range of expert practitioners
• Provides a good balance between theory and practice
• Includes practical advice and tasks to help develop your confidence and skill in cross-curricular teaching
• Is illustrated with examples of pupils’ voice

This book is ideal for students, teachers and schools who wish to adopt a cross-curricular approach to teaching and enhance their primary science curriculum.

Contributors: Alison Brade, Mark Hamill, Sharon Harris, Shelagh Hendry, Alison Hermon, Pat Hughes, Arthur Kelly, Liz Lawrence and Cliff Porter.

"Let this book take you by the hand and guide you skilfully past the pitfalls of cross-curricular teaching in primary science whilst enjoying the celebration of creative and effective links between science and other subjects. It is full of practical suggestions for cross-curricular work but it never loses sight of the need for clear learning goals. Rooted in the principles of collaborative learning, this book inspires and informs."
Anne Goldsworthy, Independent Science Consultant

"This important book explores a practical framework for cross curricular teaching of science through a closely referenced theoretical rationale. There are a range of open ended tasks that illustrate the rich learning opportunities that can be planned for when expert subject knowledge combines with a pedagogy for enquiry. This is an essential read for all teachers inspired to tailor the curriculum to the needs and interests of their children."
Alison Peacock, Headteacher of The Wroxham School and Transformative Learning Alliance, Network Leader for the Cambridge Primary Review

"I enjoyed this book sharing insights into cross curricular approaches to primary science. The authors have successfully demonstrated how they have put theory into practice. There are many useful activities clearly outlined for use in the classroom based on the authors’ own experiences. The reader will gain sound knowledge and understanding of how and why cross curricular approaches can enhance primary science through worked examples. My particular favourite was the History of Bread. I will certainly recommend this book to my students."
Kathy Schofield, Senior Lecturer for Primary Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

"These ideas have given me the confidence that cross-curricular approaches can enrich scientific provision rather than dilute it."
(Primary School Teacher)