Assignment 2
Exceptional Answers
Due 7 July 2025
,LSK3701
Assignment 2: Exceptional Answers
Due 7 July 2025
Question 1
1.1 Scientific Literacy and Teaching Bees to Young Learners
Definition of Scientific Literacy
Scientific literacy is the capacity to understand, interpret, and apply scientific knowledge
and processes to make informed decisions and engage with the natural world (National
Research Council, 1996). It involves comprehending scientific concepts, processes, and
the nature of science, enabling individuals to question, investigate, and communicate
scientifically.
Significance for Young Learners
Scientific literacy is essential for young learners as it fosters curiosity, critical thinking,
and an appreciation of the natural world. In the context of “Bees and Their Importance in
Nature,” scientific literacy helps learners grasp bees’ ecological roles, such as
pollination, which supports biodiversity and food production. It empowers them to
connect scientific concepts to real-world issues, such as environmental conservation,
fostering a sense of responsibility (Hodson, 2003).
Teaching Strategies for Foundation Phase
To foster scientific literacy in the Foundation Phase (ages 6–9), teaching about bees
should be experiential and inquiry-driven. Key strategies include:
• Observation-Based Learning: Guide learners to observe bees in a safe,
controlled environment, such as a school garden with beehives or virtual
simulations. Use magnifying glasses to examine bee anatomy and discuss their
roles (e.g., pollination).
• Concept Mapping: Help learners create visual maps linking bees to plants, food
chains, and ecosystems, reinforcing interdependence (Novak, 1990).
, • Storytelling and Analogies: Use narratives about bees (e.g., “The Bee’s
Journey”) to make abstract concepts like pollination relatable. For example,
compare pollen transfer to “bees delivering tiny food packages to plants.”
• Hands-On Activities: Engage learners in planting pollinator-friendly flowers or
building simple bee habitats, connecting actions to ecological outcomes.
These methods develop observation, questioning, and communication skills, aligning
with scientific literacy’s core components (Bybee, 1997).
References
• Bybee, R.W., 1997. Achieving scientific literacy: From purposes to practices.
Portsmouth: Heinemann.
• Hodson, D., 2003. Time for action: Science education for an alternative future.
International Journal of Science Education, 25(6), pp.645-670.
• National Research Council, 1996. National Science Education Standards.
Washington, DC: National Academies Press.
• Novak, J.D., 1990. Concept mapping: A useful tool for science education. Journal
of Research in Science Teaching, 27(10), pp.937-949.