Teaching Primary Science in Senior Primary School: The Discovery Method Approach

Abstract

The national policy on Education de-emphasizes memorization and regurgitation of facts and encourages practical exploration and experimental methods. Against this background, this paper takes a look at the discovery method of science teaching in the primary school, which leads to gaining knowledge by self-effort as against rote learning which involves memorization of scientific facts. The paper also identifies some constraints preventing effective science teaching activities in the primary school, and recommends among other things, the recruitment of only trained science teachers as well as constant retraining of these teachers through seminars and workshops.