PSC1501
Assignment 2
Due 31 July 2025
,PSC1501
Assignment 2
DUE 31 July 2025
EXCEPTIONAL ANSWERS
QUESTION 1: Practical Work in Science Education
1.1 Reasons for Including Practical Science in the Classroom
Practical science connects theory with real-world experience. It helps learners see how
science works in everyday life. Below are four strong reasons to include practical work
in the classroom, each with an explanation and example.
1. Enhances Conceptual Understanding
Explanation:
Hands-on activities make abstract ideas easier to understand. According to
constructivist theories (e.g., Piaget), students learn best when they connect new
knowledge with what they already know (Driver et al., 1994).
Example:
To teach the concept of density, students measure the mass and volume of a metal
cube and a wooden block. They use a balance and a measuring cylinder, calculate the
density, and compare results. This practical task helps them understand the concept
through real measurement.
2. Develops Scientific Skills
Explanation:
Practical tasks help learners develop important science process skills like observing,
recording, measuring, and hypothesizing. Millar (2010) states that these skills are at the
heart of scientific thinking.
, Example:
In a biology lesson, students test how light affects plant growth. They measure the
height of seedlings over a week and record their findings. This activity teaches them
how to collect and analyse data.
3. Promotes Engagement and Motivation
Explanation:
Learners are more motivated when they are actively involved. Practical work makes
science fun and interesting, sparking curiosity. Hodson (1993) argues that this
engagement builds positive attitudes toward science.
Example:
In a chemistry lesson, students combine vinegar and baking soda and watch a balloon
inflate. This fun reaction makes the lesson exciting and encourages questions and
discussion.
4. Encourages Critical Thinking
Explanation:
When students plan experiments, analyse results, and reflect on their methods, they
build critical thinking skills. Vygotsky’s theory (1978) supports the idea that problem-
solving develops higher-level thinking.
Example:
In a physics activity, students build simple circuits to explore how voltage and current
change. They predict what will happen, test their ideas, and troubleshoot when things
go wrong. This process builds reasoning and problem-solving.
Assignment 2
Due 31 July 2025
,PSC1501
Assignment 2
DUE 31 July 2025
EXCEPTIONAL ANSWERS
QUESTION 1: Practical Work in Science Education
1.1 Reasons for Including Practical Science in the Classroom
Practical science connects theory with real-world experience. It helps learners see how
science works in everyday life. Below are four strong reasons to include practical work
in the classroom, each with an explanation and example.
1. Enhances Conceptual Understanding
Explanation:
Hands-on activities make abstract ideas easier to understand. According to
constructivist theories (e.g., Piaget), students learn best when they connect new
knowledge with what they already know (Driver et al., 1994).
Example:
To teach the concept of density, students measure the mass and volume of a metal
cube and a wooden block. They use a balance and a measuring cylinder, calculate the
density, and compare results. This practical task helps them understand the concept
through real measurement.
2. Develops Scientific Skills
Explanation:
Practical tasks help learners develop important science process skills like observing,
recording, measuring, and hypothesizing. Millar (2010) states that these skills are at the
heart of scientific thinking.
, Example:
In a biology lesson, students test how light affects plant growth. They measure the
height of seedlings over a week and record their findings. This activity teaches them
how to collect and analyse data.
3. Promotes Engagement and Motivation
Explanation:
Learners are more motivated when they are actively involved. Practical work makes
science fun and interesting, sparking curiosity. Hodson (1993) argues that this
engagement builds positive attitudes toward science.
Example:
In a chemistry lesson, students combine vinegar and baking soda and watch a balloon
inflate. This fun reaction makes the lesson exciting and encourages questions and
discussion.
4. Encourages Critical Thinking
Explanation:
When students plan experiments, analyse results, and reflect on their methods, they
build critical thinking skills. Vygotsky’s theory (1978) supports the idea that problem-
solving develops higher-level thinking.
Example:
In a physics activity, students build simple circuits to explore how voltage and current
change. They predict what will happen, test their ideas, and troubleshoot when things
go wrong. This process builds reasoning and problem-solving.
