While secondary teachers may be rewriting junior programmes in the light of changes to NCEA, it is important to remember to include some numeracy, preferably in every unit. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone explores numeracy in Science – what the skills are and how we can teach them effectively.
Read MoreObserving meteors: A practical guide for students
Since the end of June, 2023, Western Heights High School (WHHS) in Rotorua has been operating a meteor camera. How did they get it and what is it used for? NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone investigates.
Read MoreDisciplinary literacy in Science 3 | Writing
Reading scientific texts and focussing on vocab sets students up with the foundations for writing. This members-only article includes plenty of strategies for primary and secondary science teachers to help students develop their writing skills for science.
Read MoreThe chemistry of fireworks: reactions, safety and spectacle
Fireworks are pure redox, and the chemistry is fascinating. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone investigates.
Read MoreUsing genetics to save kākāpō: Conservation strategies for critically endangered species
Kākāpō numbers have rocketed in the last seven years compared with the previous 20, helped by accurate genetic information that informs conservation decisions. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone investigates.
Read MorePicture books in science learning: Using stories and illustrations to teach scientific concepts
Picture books tell a good story with evocative images, and they can be used as resources in a teacher’s kete across the curriculum. Kath Murdoch, a specialist in inquiry-based learning, says “The compelling pull of narrative can often lead us to understanding the world more deeply than any ‘data’ ever can.”
Read MoreDisciplinary literacy in Science 2 | Reading
As they progress through school, students are asked to read increasingly complex information. How well students read, understand, and use this material can affect how deeply they understand the science. Science teachers are best placed to guide students through scientific texts, with their unique structure and vocabulary
Read MoreCRISiSLab challenge: Engaging students in hands-on scientific problem-solving
This annual real-world, hands-on challenge is engaging students from the Wellington area. The scientists who run the challenge are keen to involve more girls and Māori students. Science Communicator Mike Stone talks with Dr Marion Tan and Alicia Cui
Read MoreHydrogen-fuelled vehicles: Exploring sustainable energy for transport
To meet the issues of climate change we need to find alternative vehicle fuels that emit less carbon. Hydrogen-fuelled transport is gaining momentum in Aotearoa New Zealand (ANZ). In collaboration with iwi, we are making green hydrogen, trialling its use in heavy vehicles and researching aspects of a hydrogen-fuelled future. Mike Stone investigates.
Read MoreRepo/wetlands: Exploring the ecological and cultural significance
Wetlands, areas of soggy ground with standing water, were seen as undesirable by Pākehā settlers and cleared for farming or urban development. Unsurprisingly, only ten percent of our wetlands remain. They are now seen as precious, important for removing sediment and toxins from water, for protecting land from flooding and for absorbing carbon (eg, peat bogs). Science Communicator Mike Stone talks with two primary teachers whose students visit a repo to learn more about the community of living things.
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