ABSTRACT
The subject matter of science is the material universe. The aim of the scientific enterprise is to obtain the sort of knowledge and understanding of the material universe which can be relied upon for action (Ogborn 1997). We value science because of the extent to which it has been successful in achieving this aim. The aim of science education is to pass on to young people some elements of this knowledge and understanding which we (as a society) feel are of value to them.
