Talking Sense in Science : Helping Children Understand Through Talk

Douglas Newton emphasises the need for teachers to use a variety of different kinds of talk, often in conjunction with practical activity, to support children's learning and understanding in primary science.

Talking Sense in Science is a highly practical guide to getting the most out of primary science lessons through talking with children. This clearly written and straightforward book helps teachers to support understanding by developing their own interaction in the classroom. Each idea is described, illustrated and followed by a short task to develop teaching skills. This book looks at ways of understanding in science, and scientific language as well as how talk can support practical activities. Douglas Newton also addresses the ideas of what to say, when to say it and how to say it, with a view to developing understanding through science conversation. Examples given in the book span the range of primary school science topics, and provide an ideal sourcebook for lesson ideas. Talking Sense in Science is an essential buy for primary teachers who want an accessible way to improve their practice and their pupils'' understanding in science. It is also an ideal learning tool for student teachers.