Varied modes of expression and
representation
Recording to support and evidence
reasoning
Rationale for the module focus
Varied roles of expression and representation
• Support reflection and reasoning that play key roles
science learning and teaching
• Central in scientific inquiry processes – observing,
comparing, evaluating evidence, explaining
• Offer opportunities for children’s creativity in
developing and evaluating their ideas and strategies
• Provide a context for peer and self assessment
To do justice to their capabilities - children need
opportunities to represent their ideas in different ways
Motivating
contexts
Building on
children’s play and
exploration
Opportunities
for working
as individuals
and in groups
Representing
ideas in
different
ways
How do you encourage children to
express and represent their ideas?
As an individual
Brainstorm as many ideas as you can in 2 minutes .
Record each idea on a separate post it (one for each idea)
As a groups 3 or 4 from different schools
See if you can sort these – any common themes or differences?
• In what ways might they support learning?
• How do they support your planning, teaching and assessment?
• Identify any issues raised in your discussion.
Whole group - feedback of key issues/ questions 1 each per group
Role of expression and
recording in scientific inquiry
Working in 3s/4s undertake an investigation and
keep records of your progress.
• How can you change the size and shape of
shadows? What factors make a difference?
• Can you make a spinner that falls really slowly?
Improvise on equipment!
Features of scientific inquiry
involved in your activity.
(Barrow 2010)
Sharing activities
Share your experiences and reflections with
another group
Identify
2 key messages
2 issues raised
Poster that can be used to
introduce or reinforce
aspects of Nature of
Science (Akerson et al.,
2011, p69)