The key guidelines for effective learning and teaching of the subject are listed below, which take into account the recommendations on learning and teaching in Booklet 3 of the Senior Secondary Curriculum Guide (CDC, 2009) and the emphases of Science Education KLA.

 

(1) Building on strengths
The strengths of both teachers and students in Hong Kong should be acknowledged and treasured. In learning science, most Hong Kong students are strong in memorising content knowledge, analysing numerical data and understanding scientific concepts.

(2) Prior knowledge and experience
Learning and teaching activities should be planned with due consideration given to students’ prior knowledge and experience.

 

(3) Understanding learning targets
Learning and teaching activities should be designed and deployed in such a way that the learning targets are clear to both the teacher and the students.

 

(4) Teaching for understanding
Learning and teaching activities should aim at understanding, and at enabling students to think and act intelligently with what they know.

 

(5) A wide range of learning and teaching approaches and strategies
A variety of learning and teaching approaches and strategies should be used so that different learning targets can be attained effectively.

 

(6) Promoting independent and self-directed learning
Learning and teaching activities that aim at nurturing generic skills and thinking skills should be employed in appropriate learning contexts to enhance students’ capacity for independent learning. Students should be provided with opportunities to take responsibility for their own learning.

 

(7) Motivation
Students learn most effectively when they are motivated to learn. Various motivation strategies should be used to arouse and sustain the interest of students.

 

(8) Engagement
Learning and teaching activities should aim to engage students’ minds actively in the learning process, so that they remain “on task” and focused.

 

(9) Feedback and assessment
Providing prompt and useful feedback to students should be an integral part of learning and teaching. In addition to summative assessment, appropriate formative assessment should be adopted as part of the learning process.

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(10) Resources
A variety of resources, including laboratory equipment and IT resources can be employed flexibly as tools for learning.

 

(11) Catering for learner diversity
Students have different characteristics and strengths. A range of learning and teaching strategies should be employed so that all students realise their full potential.