Course content

MGLU3105 - Natural Science 1 (1-7) module 1 is based on knowledge from physics, chemistry, geology, technology, and mathematics. The course will provide academic security and educational knowledge in key areas of the natural sciences for grade 1-7. The students will develop skills and general competence in introducing the youngest students to science. Being able to develop the students' sensation, discovery, wonder, natural joy, and use of scientific terms is an essential part of this competence. In addition, the student should be able to facilitate conceptualization and train children in the basic skills needed to use inquiry-based teaching methods. Didactics and subjects are taught in an integrated manner. The course does not cover the entire curriculum in natural sciences for the elementary school grade 1-7. This can be achieved by taking Science 1 subject 2 and Natural science 2. This course description for Natural Science 1 for 1st to 7th is based on national guidelines for teacher education 1st - 7th grade from 2016.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE

The student

• has knowledge of the curriculum for natural science for primary school, grade 1-7
• has knowledge of practical work and teaching methods in science
• has knowledge of misconceptions in science
• has knowledge of formative assessment in science education
• has knowledge of the use of models in science education
• has knowledge of forces and interactions between bodies and electrically charged particles, and can use this knowledge as a foundation for students' learning of mechanics and electricity
• has knowledge of key concepts such as conservation, transmission and quality of energy forms and can link these to different areas of science
• has knowledge of waves, sound and light
• has knowledge of the solar system
• understands the periodic system and how the information can be used to explain the construction of chemical substances, bonds between atoms, and chemical reactions
• has knowledge of the use of the particle model and can use it to explain the structure of different substances and to explain physical changes and phenomena in daily life and in nature
• has knowledge of common Norwegian minerals and rocks
• has knowledge of ecology and ecological processes

SKILLS

The student

• can carry out practical and varied teaching methods in science for grade 1-7
• can use different strategies to uncover misconceptions
• can use and evaluate the use of different models and representations in science education
• can carry out activities and measurements, in physics and chemistry, with use of relevant equipment, consider necessary safety measures, and do calculations with and without digital tools, such as programming
• can carry out interdisciplinary teaching with a focus on designing and making technological products

GENERAL COMPETENCE

The student

• has insight into the nature of science and the importance of science as a general subject
• can analyze and apply the current curriculum for grade 1-7

Learning methods and activities

Varied teaching methods will be used adapted to the different parts of the subject. Experience-based and inquiry-based learning methods will be used. Student-active learning methods are a central part of the course such as 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 are part of the structure of 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 use 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 mandatory 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

• Obligatory work

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

It is advantageous to have a background from one or more of the subjects of physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics (program subjects) from high school.

Course materials

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

Credit reductions