Electromagnetism for Primary School Teachers

This course blends physics content and pedagogy to develop aspiring primary teachers’ knowledge on the topics of electricity and magnetism. In terms of physics content, we cover:

• Electrostatics - fundamental phenomena and principles;
• Fields - simple representations and laws that govern electric and magnetic fields;
• Current electricity - predicting and describing behaviour in simple circuits;
• Magnetism - Permanent magnets, electromagnets and models we use to explain them;
• Power generation and distribution - power plants, sources of energy and how it is transfered to our houses.

In terms of pedagogy and practice, we examine:

• Weather - using electrostatic ideas to understand lightning storms and how to stay safe.
• Making the invisible tangible - experiments and analogies to allow primary learners to experience abstract physical quantities through their senses.
• Age/Stage-appropriate accuracy - crafting honest, accessible explainations and learning experiences that allow learners insight into the world around them.
• Role models - introducing a wide range of historical scientists and electrical engineers, so that learners can see themselves in the scientists behind the ideas.

Course materials

Handouts appear here as soon as they are uploaded.

No downloadable materials are available yet. Check back after the next workshop.