Sensemaking in Elementary Science

Supporting Teacher Learning

Elizabeth A Davis editor Carla Zembal-Saul editor Sylvie M Kademian editor

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:1st Nov '19

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

This paperback is available in another edition too:

Sensemaking in Elementary Science cover

Grounded in empirical research, this book offers concrete pathways to direct attention towards elementary science teaching that privileges sensemaking, rather than isolated activities and vocabulary. Outlining a clear vision for this shift using research-backed tools, pedagogies, and practices to support teacher learning and development, this edited volume reveals how teachers can best engage in teaching that supports meaningful learning and understanding in elementary science classrooms.

Divided into three sections, this book demonstrates the skills, knowledge bases, and research-driven practices necessary to make a fundamental shift towards a focus on students’ ideas and reasoning, and covers topics such as:

  • An introduction to sensemaking in elementary science;
  • Positioning students at the center of sensemaking;
  • Planning and enacting investigation-based science discussions;
  • Designing a practice-based elementary teacher education program;
  • Reflections on science teacher education and professional development for reform-based elementary science.

In line with current reform efforts, including the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Sensemaking in Elementary Science is the perfect resource for graduate students and researchers in science education, elementary education, teacher education, and STEM education looking to explore effective practice, approaches, and development within the elementary science classroom.

Rigid school curricula emphasizing and assessing low-level skills perpetuate the wildly damaging assumption that elementary learners are incapable of engaging in substantive intellectual work. Sensemaking in Elementary Science offers an aspirational, yet achievable vision for science teaching and teacher education to guide bold changes in the landscape of elementary science. This book will become a well-worn, go-to resource for those working to make high-quality elementary science a reality.
Heidi Carlone, Ph.D., Hooks Distinguished Professor of STEM Education, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

ISBN: 9781138386952

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 910g

272 pages