Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2019 - EDUC 476 D100

Designs for Learning: Elementary Science (4)

Class Number: 5821

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Location: TBA

  • Prerequisites:

    EDUC 401/402 or corequisite EDUC 403.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Focuses on teaching elementary school science. Students explore science, aspects of learning science, and their own scientific thinking; work with the prescribed curriculum; and plan science learning experiences within a consistent framework using appropriate instructional materials and methods.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is intended to provide a comprehensive conceptual framework for making sense of the events of curriculum and instruction in elementary school science: it provides an introduction to thinking about science teaching and the practical skills to make science fun and exciting in your classroom. As such, this course will include nature walks and field trips in the Peace Region, such as Doig River Days. Field trip options will be discussed in class.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Students will:

  1. have an overview of current science curricula in BC
  2. develop their pedagogical understanding of science teaching and learning
  3. explore the relationship between Indigenous knowledge and western science
  4. develop their own critical philosophy of science education
  5. begin to acquire a tool box of strategies for learning and assessment in the science classroom
  6. develop a coherent unit plan for teaching science

Grading

  • Activity-based Science Lesson 20%
  • Project-based Learning/Inquiry Assignment 30%
  • Unit Plan 30%
  • Final Reflective Paper 20%

REQUIREMENTS:

Due to the interactive nature of this class, attendance is required. If you need to miss a class, please discuss with the instructor beforehand. You will be responsible for making up readings, reflections and other work.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

There may be entrance fees for some of the field trips we participate in.

REQUIRED READING:

Keeley, Page (ed), Science Formative Assessment: 75 Practical Strategies For Linking Assessment, Instruction, And Learning 2nd Edition, Corwin Press, 2016.
ISBN: 9781483352176

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS