This review of Science Through Stories appears in the November issue of Primary Teacher Update, and was written by Karen Faux. Find a link to this highly informative journal at the foot of the page, or visit their facebook page here.
As the introduction by Chris Smith outlines, this book explores the world of science through story. Some of the stories act as a springboard into scientific investigation or communicate information. Others are about great scientists and their discoveries – stories that every child should know.
The mix of traditional tales, historical stories and narratives written specially for this book have all been tested in the classroom by teachers. They cover the main science topics taught in English primary schools and they are ranked in order of difficulty, rather than year group.
With every story there is guidance on how to maximise the story-telling approach, to develop communication skills, social skills and topic knowledge all at the same time. The authors propose a ‘neat’ four-step process to help pupils remember and re-tell stories involving – hear, map, step, speak. It is fast and effective, say the authors, because it mixes various learning models in one clearly defined and easily learned process.
A fantastic resource, well worth the investment, that links to English as well as science teaching.
Buy the book here…
Visit the Primary Teacher Update website here…
More about Storytelling Schools here…
