New Draft K-6 Science Syllabus

Are you aware of the proposed changes to the current NSW Science and Technology K-6 syllabus?

The Board of Studies (BOSTES) is proposing to re-write the syllabus from scratch. Why is this change occurring? Will it create a major headache for you in re-programming? (as some of us have just finished programs for the last ‘new’ syllabus)

Please join me in having your say about this as the Draft directions document is now up for comment: http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/syllabuses/curriculum-development/pdf_doc/K-10-syllabus-development-for-consultation-science-technology.pdf

Complete the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/bostesstk-6 before the end of August.

This document shows a vast change in direction from the previous syllabus and I have many questions that I hope BOSTES will answer at the next consultation meeting in Sydney. Consultation dates are via this link (many have already passed by…)

http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/syllabuses/curriculum-development/K-10.html

These are some of my first glance thoughts.

• Some of the changes include a removal of sustainability and sustainable futures language. The sustainability cross-curricular priority is seemingly missing. I hope this will be re-instated.
• Both skills of ‘working scientifically’ and ‘working technologically’ seem to be replaced by an ‘enquiry and design process’
• The living world topic has a new focus on primary production rather than ecology.

I would strongly encourage everyone to take the time to read the document, form your own opinions and comment via the survey, or attend a consultation meeting.

 

 

Bursting with new programs for your students.

Brewongle staff have been busy preparing a range of new incursions, excursions, camps and teacher professional learning – check out the links below to book for this term or next year.

Incursions:

Stage 2 & 3 Creative Arts and Science. Two programs involving art, technology and the environment. We come to your school, provide all the equipment, expertise and activities. Linked to the new syllabuses for the Australian Curriculum.

Excursions to Brewongle EEC:

Stage 4 & 5 Science. Two innovative programs that will engage your students in authentic citizen science and real life ecology programs. All designed around the new syllabus for the Australian Curriculum.

Climatewatch Citizen Science is a first hand investigation into how local plant and animal species are responding to climate change. Use technology and contribute data to a national citizen science project!

Adventure Conservation Day Program or 3 day Camp is a partnership with NSW National Parks & Wildlife, Landcare and local bush regeneration contractors. Students will kayak the Hawkesbury River and discover first hand how to manage our waterways.

Aboriginal Education Teacher Professional Learning

Thursday 13th November 2014

Venue – University of Western Sydney Discovery Centre, Richmond Campus.

‘Place, People, Pedagogy’: A Story for all Learners aims to build teacher cultural competencies to incorporate the new learning cross- curriculum priority Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures into teaching and learning.