Developing Discussion in Secondary Science

Making new organs from stem cells, exploration of space and performance enhancing drugs are all aspects of contemporary science with significant consequences for individuals and society. Developing Discussion in Secondary Science connects these and other exciting, often controversial, contemporary developments in science to ideas in secondary science curricula. It shows how through developing discussion, debate and questioning in the classroom, teachers can promote better understanding of science and improve learning.

Based on the authors’ experiences of working with over 500 young people, this practically-minded book introduces the Community of Scientific Enquiry approach and focuses on ways in which teachers can build student-led scientific discussion. It is packed with example activities, resources, hands-on games and discussion guides for key teaching concepts in science set in a contemporary context.

By showing teachers how to tackle head one two myths about science often assumed by students - that scientific knowledge is ‘true forever’ and that science is disconnected from the ‘real’ world -Developing Discussion in Secondary Science provides a powerful set of tools for learning science through lessons that demand the active engagement of students.

Developing Discussion in Secondary Science offers student science teachers on all routes to qualified status, as well as practising teachers looking for fresh, innovative ideas, a comprehensive source of guidance for developing thinking skills and scientific understanding through talk in the secondary school.