TMN3705 SUMMARY NOTES

TMN3705
NOTES

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TMN3705: Natural Science and Technology for the Classroom

Learning Unit 1: The Natural Science and Technology teacher
Introduction

Dear Student,

Welcome to this module: Natural Science and Technology for the Classroom. We hope
you will find it interesting and that it will enhance your ability as a Natural Science and
Technology teacher.

Because this is a blended module, you will need to use myUnisa to study and complete
the learning activities for the module. Visit the website for TMN3705 on myUnisa
frequently. The website for your module is Natural Science and Technology for the
Classroom TMN3705-2021.


1.1 Getting started

Owing to the nature of this module, you can read about it and find your study material in
print and online. Go to the website at https://my.unisa.ac.za and log in using your
student number and password. You will see [module site-20-Y] in the row of modules
displayed in the orange blocks at the top of the webpage. Select the More tab if you
cannot find the module you require in the blocks displayed. Then click on the module
you want to open.

We wish you much success in your studies!

1.2 Purpose of the Module

The module builds on the foundation as laid out by the module Science in the
Classroom 1, as it provides prospective teachers with an overview of the role of Science
in society as it is viewed in the school curriculum. It identifies core concepts, such as the
contributions of notable scientists and Indigenous Knowledge combined with the
knowledge strand Matter and Materials and the knowledge strand Energy and Change.
It explores how the relevant Science knowledge is built and how that knowledge might
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TMN3705/501

best be mediated in the classroom. By the end of the module, candidates will have a
clear idea of why they might want to become science teachers and what this entails.

1.3 Learning Outcomes

At the end of this Unit you will be able to:
• Define Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK)
• Discuss the various components of Technological Pedagogical Content
Knowledge (TPACK)
• Explain the competences of a Natural Science and Technology teacher



Activity 1.1

Before you read any further, we need you to think about what Natural Science and
Technology means to you.


Activity 1.1 (10 x2=20 marks)

1) What is your experience as a learner in a:
 Science class
 Technology class?

Write a description of at least one good experience and one bad experience.
2) Do you think this has changed since you studied Science and Technology at
school? Explain.
 What does this suggest about you as a Natural Science and Technology
teacher?


1.4 Teaching Natural Science in the 21st Century

Look carefully at the six pictures/photos below. Each of these describes a situation in a
Natural Science and Technology classroom.



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Activity 1.2 (10 marks)

1) Write a short essay to describe what you think each of the pictures (photos)
represents. Do not rush though the activity. Write as much as you can about
the situation depicted in each picture/photo.




Picture 1

Source: timetoast.com




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