This article talks about the death of Audrey Randall, a passionate supporter of the Association and a hugely significant figure in the history of primary science education. It presents the testimonial of Peter Borrows, a colleague and Chair of Home Counties region.

In this article, the author discusses the deliberate policy on the part of Primary Science Committee (PSC) to ensure that not only is primary science embedded in all aspects of the work of ASE but is seen to be there. She also describes the events for the 2010 Annual Conference. Over the coming months, PSC will continue to put much thought into…

The status of primary science as a core subject has been gradually corroded in recent years, with the abolition of targets for science and the focus of the primary national strategy on literacy and numeracy. The NAIGS Committee were very well positioned within local authorities to pilot APP, but first had to write the criteria. Towards the end of…

In this article, the author discusses why the history of science should be included in the science curriculum in schools. He also presents some opportunities that can come out of using historical contexts, and findings from a study assessing the place of history of science in readily available textbooks.

Fox Hill Primary School is part of a family of schools in Sheffield that is piloting the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust Primary Specialism for Science. In parallel to this work, Fox Hill participated in the Smarter Schools project from September 2008-2009. This project, funded by the AstraZeneca Science Teaching Trust, was set up by the…

It is widely recognised that rapidly received feedback on assessment tasks has an important role to play in underpinning student learning and encouraging engagement. Within the Open University (OU), increasing use is being made of interactive computer-marked assignments (iCMAs), alongside more conventional tutor-marked assignments (TMAs). OU…

Presents a five-year plan to produce specific and detailed proposals to influence curriculum practice. (MKR)

Describes four projects: (1) using diagnostic assessment to improve science learning; (2) issues in the implementation of evidence-based approaches in science education; (3) teaching pupils 'ideas-about-science'; and (4) understanding the researcher-user interface. Describes projects that are focused on curriculum development and explores how…

Presents two notes regarding the article "The Flow of Chemists" published in the January issue of 'Education in Science' (61 page 21) related to declining numbers of chemistry students in higher education. Both writers suggest different syllabuses requiring less math and a better match of material to student ability and understanding. (EB)

Discusses ways in which science in the primary curriculum might develop in the future. Shares a dream for the future that includes confident teachers using good equipment, teaching challenging science, emphasizing both the use of evidence to support arguments and the development of language to clarify thinking. (JRH)

Reports the findings of a study which investigated problems associated with the adoption of the Nuffield Combined Science Project by middle schools in Britain. (JR)

Proposes that a successful school science curriculum is one which engages rather than coerces pupils and which caters to both prospective scientists and informed citizens. Argues that to produce such a curriculum, it is essential that teachers and pupils are fully involved in the revision process. Contains 10 references. (JRH)

Describes enrollment patterns of secondary students in A-level science courses. (MKR)

Introduces a five-part program involving industry and technology cooperation in science education, including the curriculum-focused multi-site tour, general tours, teacher tours, and open days. (YDS)