Science in the Early Years : Building Firm Foundations from Birth to Five

by Brunton, Pat; Thornton, Linda C.

• ISBN13: 9781848601437
• ISBN10: 1848601433
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2009-12-01
• Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd

Summary

'This book is aimed at teachers, trainee teachers and other early years practitioners, providing a thorough background of the science taught for children aged from birth to five. It puts together relevant knowledge and understanding, key information and practical support along with innovative ideas on current thinking in the early years setting. In two easily accessible parts, the book firstly provides guidance on creating a science-rich environment whilst considering the child as a creative thinker; secondly it gives support for practitioners in the scientific concepts needed to deliver science to young children successfully. A very readable and essential book for anyone working in the early years' - Louise Nelson, Senior Lecturer Initial Teacher Education, Primary Science, Leeds Metropolitan UniversityGiving early years practitioners and students the confidence to effectively support scientific exploration and investigation with young children, this book explains the science behind young children's knowledge and understanding of the world.Linking theory to practice and the Early Years Foundation Stage, the emphasis throughout the book is on recognizing young children as competent, creative thinkers and building on their ideas. The book is packed with critical questions and opportunities for reflection, to encourage the reader to think carefully about the role of the adult in supporting child-initiated learning and discovery.The authors look at all the key areas of scientific knowledge, and provide practical ideas suitable for babies, children aged 2 years and children aged 3 to 5 years. There is also advice on using observations to help with assessment, and for planning the next steps in children's learning.Chapters cover:- links to the early years curriculum in England ,Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland- creating a science-rich environment- linking science learning opportunities to areas of provision- exploration and investigation, indoors and outdoors- introducing new vocabulary- handling tricky questions- suppliers of resources and equipmentBy making clear links to practice, this book enables the reader to implement new and exciting ideas in any early years setting.Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton are both Education Consultants based in Cornwall. They run their own training and consultancy company alc associates, and edit Early Years Update.

Author Biography

Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton are both Education Consultants based in Cheltenham. They run their own training and consultancy company alc associates, and edit Early Years Update.

Table of Contents

Supporting Young Children's Scientific Learning

Creating a Science Rich Environment

Introduction to Part 2

Living Things

Habitats and Sustainability

The Structure of the Human Body and Healthy Living

Materials

Forces

Air and Water

Magnets and Magnetism

Electricity

Sound

Light, Colour and Shadow

The Earth

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