ABSTRACT

Teaching assistants have much to contribute to children’s learning across the primary curriculum. In this chapter Janet Kay, author of books for teaching assistants, explores the contribution they can make to children’s learning of science through encouraging children’s curiosity, clarifying and extending children’s knowledge and understanding and addressing misconceptions. ‘Misconceptions’ usually arise because children have not been provided with accurate information or the opportunity to explore their ideas and the author highlights the importance of conversation and careful questioning in supporting children’s learning of science. This chapter focuses on the curriculum guidance for Key Stage 1 in England. Readers working in other countries might like to compare and contrast this with the recommendations in their own curriculum documents.