Course content

Natural science 1 (5-10) subject 1 covers central areas of science for levels 5-10 and provides the student with knowledge in physics, chemistry, geology, biology, technology, mathematics, and science didactics. The course provides basic knowledge in mechanics, forces, particles, the period system, the solar system, minerals and rocks, as well as ecology. The course also provides insight into didactic topics such as the use of models, practical and varied teaching, misconceptions, and assessment in science. The course does not cover the entire academic breadth of the elementary school subject for levels 5-10. That breadth can be achieved by taking Science 1 subject 2 and Science 2. This course description for Science 1 for 5-10 is based on the National Guidelines for Primary School Teacher Education, 5-10 level from 2024.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE

The student

• has knowledge of practical work and varied teaching in science
• has knowledge of the use of models in science education
• has basic knowledge of kinematics, forces and interactions between bodies, including electrically charged particles, and can use this knowledge as the basis for student learning of mechanics and electricity
• has knowledge of key concepts, such as energy conservation, transfer and quality, as well as different energy forms, and can relate this to different scientific areas
• has basic knowledge of the solar system
• has knowledge of waves, sound and light
• has knowledge of the use of the particle model to concretize the construction of matter, and to explain physical changes and phenomena in daily life and in nature
• has an understanding of the periodic system and how it is important for the construction of chemical substances, bonds between atoms, and reactions
• has basic knowledge of common Norwegian minerals and rocks
• has knowledge of ecology and ecological processes

SKILLS

The student

• can plan, carry out, and reflect on their own teaching at primary and lower-secondary school level, rooted in research, theory and practice, and with a particular focus on exploratory working methods and integration of all basic skills in physics, chemistry and technology
• can carry out activities and measurements, in physics and chemistry, using relevant equipment, assess necessary safety measures, and make calculations with and without digital tools
• can use formative assessment in physics and chemistry as a basis for arranging teaching and customized training at middle and lower secondary school levels
• can carry out teaching in technology and design with a focus on the process of designing and creating technological products, and linking technology to relevant topics in science

GENERAL COMPETENCY

The student

• has insight into the methods and ways of thinking about the natural sciences and the importance of science as a broad educational subject
• can analyze and apply the current curriculum for pupils at the primary and lower-secondary school level as a starting point for science education in topics related to chemistry, physics and technology

Learning methods and activities

Varied forms of work will be used, and adapted to different parts of the subject. Experience-based and inquiry learning based on active student learning elements such as field work (observation, exploration, and mapping of nature), laboratory work (experiments and activities), and argumentation are central. Introduction to, and simple use of, ICT tools, academic and didactic, to animations, simulations and modeling within the natural science theme will contribute to the students' digital competence. The lecture form, together with class teaching, will be used to provide an overview, clarify academic problems, present central knowledge, and work with examples and tasks. Student-active forms of work with self-study, individual work, and work in groups with assignments and projects are important parts of the study. Literature, teaching materials and other learning sources will be given in both Norwegian and English. Students are expected to master both languages at a level that enables the ues of these learning sources. Furthermore, the students are expected to use the university's library and other sources of information and learning actively, and prepare for planned teaching. The students' work on the subject will be assessed with both formative and summative assessment methods. During the course, the students will be given a number of compulsory work requirements, written and oral assignments, and practical work. The details in connection with the organization of the teaching can be found in the semester plan.

Compulsory assignments

• Compulsory activity according to the course description
• EPN-SK-OBLIG1
• Compulsory activity according to the course description

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

To have knowledge in one or several of the subjects physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics from high school level is an advantage.

Course materials

The final syllabus will be published on Blackboard before the start of the program.

Credit reductions