A note for parents of students using Small Science

If your child goes to a school that has opted for the Small Science books, here is a brief introduction to its values and benefits which have been recognized by schools and suggestions for how you as parents can participate in your child’s learning.

Value of the science curriculum

• It consists of entirely hands-on, practical activities guided by the teacher. The aim is to develop thinking and investigation skills (such as observation, questioning, planning and implementing activities, analyzing and interpreting data) which are needed at all times for the study of science.
• The teacher’s responsibility is to stimulate and support the students’ learning. The teachers have a detailed manual to guide them.
• The student’s work is evaluated continuously by the teacher, through the workbook. The physical and psychological stress from tests and exams is thus reduced.
• The types of questions are different from usual. The emphasis is not on getting the “right” answer but on learning to think.
• Thus, and most importantly, memorizing and reproducing fixed answers has no place in this curriculum.

Benefits to your child

• Your child will participate actively and become responsible for his/her learning.
• Your child will learn to think independently.
• Your child’s natural tendencies of curiosity and observation will be encouraged.
• Your child’s English language and mathematics skills will develop further through the learning of science. A look at the workbook and textbook will show you how.
• Your child will enjoy learning and not view it as boring or burdensome.

As parents, your role in your child’s learning is important. Here are some of the things you can do to help your child enjoy science and learn meaningfully:

• Encourage him/her to observe the surroundings at home and outside, for example, on the street, in the market, or during family outings. Explore gardens, parks and museums together with your child. (A teacher’s book written for classes 1 and 2 provides many ideas for parents of older children too. It is available at a subsidised rate of Rs.15/- from HBCSE.)
• Become a learner with your child! Do some of the activities and exercises together.
• Encourage your child to think and fill the workbook without your or the tuition teacher’s help .

Any change for the better takes time and effort. Your child’s school is willing to invest in both. Your support and involvement will help your children become confident, independent thinkers.

The Small Science Team

smallscisupport@hbcse.tifr.res.in

Mailing list

smallscience@mm.hbcse.tifr.res.in