Improving Practical Work in Science

Primary Focus on Getting Practical

Janet ChetwoodZoe Crompton

What has been most useful?

• Thinking about the purpose of practical work

• Sharing ideas with colleagues• Time for reflection• Putting science into real life contexts

How has the programme influenced practical work in science?

• Allowed children to pose their own question to investigate

• Getting the fun out of science• Looking for different ways of

recording• The audit tool helps teachers to spot

gaps

Feedback from a trainer

“I have found that it has made me simply take a step back and look carefully at my lessons. What is the purpose of the activity I have given the children to do? My activities now have a sharper focus on learning outcomes.” Karen Hodgetts, primary teacher and trainer

Feedback from a Headteacher

“The level of discussion was good and working cross-phase was very beneficial. The level of questioning by Janet was purposeful, non-threatening, but definitely challenging colleagues to think about their practice. ” Headteacher, Sedbergh Primary School

Next steps

Discuss in pairs:• How can we sustain this focus on

practical work?• Be prepared to feedback your ideas.