Curious Learners in Primary Maths, Science, Computing and DT
- Alan Cross - University of Manchester, UK
- Alison Borthwick
- Karen Beswick - University of Manchester, UK
- Jon Board - University of Manchester, UK
- Jon Chippindall - University of Manchester, UK
Whether it is in the National Curriculum or the Teachers' Standards, promotion of children's curiosity is highlighted as a key part of effective teaching. Curiosity has the potential to enhance learning in all curriculum subjects but it has a special connection with scientific thinking. A curious approach can open up learning in science, computing, design technology and mathematics. This text explores how teachers can harness the power of curiosity in their classroom. Full of practical teaching ideas for engaging learners and making lessons more exciting, it highlights the ways in which STEM subjects can be taught together.
Coverage includes:
- the place of curiosity in subject teaching
- how curiosity contributes to a learner's overall capability
- examples of curiosity in primary STEM classes
- case studies which exemplify curiosity.
This book fits with a new approach to the delivery of STEM subjects on our PGDE primary course which will support our student teachers to develop a better understanding of how an integrated approach to curriculum delivery can enhance pupil engagement and learning.
Easy to access book for teachers and trainees alike.
Well structured chapters following same format, so easy to read and good links across STEM subjects.
This text explores how teachers can harness the power of curiosity in their classroom. This book is full of practical teaching ideas for engaging learners, highlighting ways that STEM subjects can be taught together.
It is great to see a book that makes such a defined reference to Design and Technology teaching. I feel this will really benefit our Primary ITE students and give them confidence and great ideas for their practical teaching.
The idea of creating curiosity in learners (esp in STEM subjects) is an appealing one, but ultimately the concept is spread too thinly in the book. There are some interesting cameos of historical figures, and some stimulating teaching activities, but the underlying question of what is it that stimulates the curiosity of young learners is addressed too superficially. It is also, for my purposes, rather too closely tied to the English National Curriculum. Having said that, the Introduction is interesting and would point students / teachers in the direction of further independent reading.
This text explores the possibilities of drawing on the power of curiosity in the classroom to teach STEM subjects collaboratively. it is full of practical handy teaching ideas for engaging learners and making lessons more exciting,
Recommended, particularly for the cross curricular elements of our course, including maths, science and computing conference days. The case studies and practical examples are useful for the students.
