Description

Enquiry learning and teaching about the nature of science (NoS) is a key element of science education. We have designed an experimental setting for students aged 12 14 years to exercise enquiry-learning skills and to introduce students to the NoS aspects of creativity and imagination. It also illustrates the impact of carbon dioxide on the growth of algae. Students stated hypotheses, planned experiments and analysed the data, becoming familiar with the NoS aspects mentioned above. The sessions consisted of: an initial 2 hour session to propose hypotheses and predictions and to design the experiment, a 3 hour session to establish the experimental set-up, and a 2 hour session for analysis and interpretation. A well-planned and disciplined class timetable is essential.

More from this issue

As part of a wider qualification reform at upper secondary level in England, the assessment of practical work is changing, following concerns that...

Jan 2016
Journal Article

Allan Mills describes the use of capiz shells for making lampshades, including the process that makes them translucent and the controls on...

Jan 2016
Journal Article

Meteorology is an important branch of science that offers exciting career opportunities and yet is not usually included in school curricula. The...

Jan 2016
Journal Article