Big Ideas in Outdoor Primary Science: Understanding and Enjoying the Natural World

Big Ideas in Outdoor Primary Science takes a fresh approach to learning science in outdoor contexts. It combines new thinking in science teaching using big ideas, with our growing need to look after our planet, and encourages children to learn from what scientists have to say about issues which will impact their lives today and in the future.

The book offers primary teachers the subject and pedagogical knowledge, as well as the confidence they need, to integrate the seeds of big ideas into their curriculum. To this end, it provides models of good practice which exemplify how primary-aged children can work towards understanding some of science’s big ideas and engage with important issues related to wildlife conservation.

The easy-to-use book covers topics such as:

• Interdependence
• Adaptation
• Inheritance
• Following in Darwin’s footsteps
• Protecting ecosystems

Full of ideas for outside learning, this book is a comprehensive, valuable and essential resource for all teachers of primary science.

Peter Loxley taught in both primary and secondary schools for many years, including in the UK, Australia and Jamaica. Peter was previously Subject Leader of Science Education at the University of Northampton, UK.