Exploring the Nature of Science

This collection brings together two books, each with thirteen units: one for students aged 11-14 and one for those aged 14-16. Each unit consisted of photocopiable student sheets with background notes for the teacher. The units were divided into ‘sessions’, most of which cover a double lesson.

[b]Teaching methods[/b]
The units involved a variety of teaching and learning methods including directed activities related to text (DARTs), practical work, short videos, discussion and role-play. The impact of the units was evaluated by schools trials supported by action research

[b]Background[/b]
The activities in the books were devised to meet the requirements of early versions of the English National Curriculum. The units aimed to help teachers use historical case studies to develop understanding of how scientific theories arise and change through time. Some units also explore how the nature and application of scientific ideas are affected by the social and cultural context in which they develop.