Learning Area Science 2

Subject 460-664 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

Semester 2, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable

Parkville

Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 36 hours
Total Time Commitment: 125 hours toatl commitment
Prerequisites: 460-663 Learning Area Science 1
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Dr Pam Mulhall
Subject Overview: In addition to consolidating teacher candidates’ training for teaching junior science at secondary school, this subject prepares them to teach and assess students undertaking studies in (VCE) Environmental Science. Pedagogical methods and learning approaches appropriate to environmental science are covered. These include classroom instruction, practical laboratory work, field work, and Information and Communication Technology. While the subject focuses on pedagogy and content relevant to the VCE Environmental Science Study design Units 1-4, the subject will also examine the place of environmental science in the year 7-10 general science curriculum as outlined in the Victorian Essential Learning Standards. In combined science, shared with the other science methods, teacher candidates will employ in practice research on children’s naïve conceptions in different Years 7 – 10 science topics, and develop skills in managing communication in peer based learning. Workshops and excursions will strengthen particular content areas. School visits will introduce models of department management and associated career options.
Objectives: On completion of this subject, teacher candidates will be able to:
  • Be skilled teachers of science and environmental science with the theoretical frameworks and practical ability to produce effective learning for a wide range of students;
  • Display a solid current knowledge of environmental sciences, educational contexts and how they interact in effective pedagogy;
  • Understand the links between effective planning, teaching and assessment;
  • Use a variety of technologies in the classroom to assist learning sciences.
Assessment: There are 3 assessment tasks for this subject.
  • A course outline for VCE Environmental Science for either Unit 1 or Unit 2 including lesson plans and assessment (1500 words) due end of semester (36%)
  • An extended practical activity for environmental science students in years 7-10 (1200 words) due mid semester (30%)
  • EITHER a report on peer-based teaching OR a set of workshop productions (equivalent to 1300 words) due end of semester (34%)

NOTE: Teacher candidates doing one LAS Science subject will do one of these tasks. Teacher candidates doing 2 LAS Science subjects will do both, one in each of their LAS subjects.
Prescribed Texts: None
Recommended Texts:
  • VCAA (2006) Victorian Essential Learning Standards
  • Collection of Readings
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Related Course(s): Master of Teaching (Secondary)

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