Jane Johnston

Reviewers’ comments on the first edition:“Jane Johnston communicates a sense of effervescent enthusiasm for teaching and science, and her treatment is comprehensive.” TES“The ideas and recommendations, based on considerable classroom experience, make this book a valuable aid to students and reflective early years practitioners.” Primary Science Review“At last! A serious attempt to explore the scientific potential of infant and pre-school children… The author explains how scientific skills can be developed at an early stage, stimulating the natural inquisitive streak in children. This book…will start you thinking about science in a much more positive light.” Child EducationThis accessible and practical book supports good scientific practice in the early years. It helps practitioners to be creative providers, and shows them how to develop awe and wonder of the world in the children they teach. The book highlights the importance of a motivating learning environment and skilled interaction with well-trained adults. In addition, fundamental issues are explored such as the range, nature and philosophical underpinning of early years experiences and the development of emergent scientific skills, understandings and attitudes. New features for this edition include:An extended age range encompassing early learning from 0 – 8Updated material for the Foundation Stage Curriculum for 3 – 5-year-olds and the National Curriculum 2000 for 5 – 8-year-oldsA new chapter focusing on conceptual understanding and thinking skills in the early yearsAn emphasis on the importance of informal learning and play in early developmentThe book introduces and discusses new research and thinking in early years and science education throughout, making it relevant for current practice. This is an indispensable resource for all trainee and practising primary school teachers and early years practitioners.

* What is good teaching and learning in the primary school?* How can teachers manage the whole curriculum and still educate the whole child and raise standards?* How can teachers be in critical dialogue with each other and with the curriculum in their search for improvement?* What is the role of the teacher in the new primary curriculum? This wide ranging book seeks to address these questions and to provide a comprehensive overview of the whole primary curriculum. It aims to develop teaching throughout primary education and to support teachers in the effective delivery of the curriculum. There is a particular focus on recent changes in primary education. The contributors consider how teaching methodologies need to adapt to these changes to meet the needs of children and raise standards in school. Throughout the book, emphasis is placed on effective teaching and learning methodologies, the importance of quality interaction in the classroom, the role of the teacher in teaching and learning and the experience of the child. Exemplars of good teaching are provided in each chapter, as well as thought provoking ideas for good practice.