Teaching Science in Elementary and Middle School ─ A Project-Based Approach

Teaching Science in Elementary and Middle School offers in-depth information about the fundamental features of project-based science and strategies for implementing the approach. In project-based science classrooms, students find solutions to meaningful questions by investigating, using technology, collaborating, and developing products to show what they learned. Paralleling what scientists do, project-based science represents the essence of inquiry and the nature of science. Based upon the goal of helping all children learn science thoroughly and deeply, it also helps them experience the joy of doing science. Project-based science aligns with the National Research Council’s Framework for K-12 Science Education published in 2012. Blending principles of learning and motivation with practical teaching ideas for how to implement them, this text covers topics in depth and provides concrete strategies for meeting the Framework. Features include long-term, interdisciplinary, student-centered lessons; scenarios to help readers situate new experiences; and “Connecting to Framework for K–12 Science Education” textboxes. More concise than previous editions, the Fourth Edition offers a wealth of supplementary material on a new Companion Website.

Joseph S. Krajcik is Professor of Science Education and Director of the Institute for Collaborative Research in Education, Assessment and Teaching Environments for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (CREATE for STEM) at Michigan State University, USA.

Charlene M. Czerniak is Professor of Science Education and Distinguished University Professor at the University of Toledo, USA.