DUE DATE: 05 July 2024
QUESTION 1
1. There are several types of practical activities. Demonstrate your understanding
of demonstrations, experiments and practical investigations.
The information should include the following:
• Supplying an example of each practical activity
• The role of the learner during each practical activity
• The role of the teacher during each practical activity
• An important element of each practical activity to consider.
Practical activities like demonstrations, experiments, and investigations are
essential in science and technology education. These activities help students learn
and understand concepts better.
Demonstrations are a fundamental teaching tool in science education, allowing
teachers to showcase scientific phenomena and engage students in the learning
process (Abrahams & Millar, 2008). During a demonstration, teachers present a
carefully planned and executed experiment, such as the reaction between baking
soda and vinegar, which produces carbon dioxide gas (Hodson, 1993). Students
observe the demonstration, take notes, and ask questions, fostering a deeper
understanding of the scientific concept being demonstrated.
Teachers play a crucial role in ensuring safety during demonstrations, as they
must create a controlled environment that minimizes potential hazards (Kirschner
et al., 2006). Additionally, teachers encourage discussion and questioning among
students, promoting critical thinking and analysis of the phenomenon being
demonstrated. By observing and engaging with the demonstration, students
develop a concrete understanding of abstract scientific concepts, making learning
more meaningful and memorable.