The Australian Academy of Science’s education program for primary schools, Primary Connections, today announced the completion of its full suite of 31 units designed to help teachers engage children in hands-on science.
The final three units were launched at the Shine Dome in Canberra today by two Fellows of the Academy: Nobel Laureate Brian Schmidt and the Academy’s Secretary for Education and Public Awareness, Professor Jenny Graves.
“Improving the quality of science and maths education is critical for the future prosperity of Australia,” said Professor Graves.
“We know that Primary Connections really works to engage children, improve their critical thinking skills, and improve literacy.
“Many Australian primary school teachers have reported being uncomfortable with teaching science: this program supports schools and teachers with curriculum resources and training, to improve science teaching, improve student outcomes and improve students’ enjoyment of science.”
Today’s release included the two year 3 units exploring earth and space science and physical science – Night and Day and Heating Up, and a year 4 unit exploring biological science, Friends or Foes?.
“These terrific new units will build on the existing 28 units to complete the Primary Connections suite and help teachers take children on a fun and interactive learning journey,” Professor Schmidt said.
“They’ll not only learn about the world they live in, but how to improve their critical thinking skills and their ability to write and talk about the things they observe.”
Fully aligned with the Australian Curriculum, the program is already making a significant contribution to high quality science education across Australia. Primary Connections units are now being used in more than 50 per cent of Australian primary schools.
The Primary Connections program is supported by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and has received personal contributions from Professor Schmidt and Professor Kenneth Cavill FAA.
“The Academy is grateful for the Australian Government’s support and recognition that scientific literacy is an important goal for all Australian children,” Professor Graves said.
“Inspiring and educating future contributors to the innovation and knowledge economy is critical for Australia’s future wellbeing.”
For more information about Primary Connections visit: http://primaryconnections.org.au.
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
