Examination of science curriculum in the context of health literacy

Health literacy refers to an individual's ability to access, understand, evaluate and use health information to protect and maintain health. When the science course curriculum objectives are examined, it is seen that it is suitable for providing individuals with health literacy. The aim of this study is to determine to what extent concepts and expressions related to health literacy are included in the 2018 science curriculum. The data source of the research is the 2018 science course curriculum (7th-8th grades). The data obtained through document analysis was analyzed with descriptive analysis approach. As a result of the analysis carried out by taking into account the conceptual framework of health literacy, the dimensions of health literacy are; It was determined that there were 3 achievements in the "treatment and service" dimension, 10 in the "protection from diseases" dimension, and 37 achievements in the "health promotion" dimension. When the analysis results are examined according to health literacy processes, 2 of the achievements are suitable for the process of "accessing health-related information", 23 of them are suitable for the process of "understanding health-related information", 14 of them are suitable for the process of "evaluating health-related information" and 11 of them are suitable for the process of "using/applying health-related information". In order to improve health literacy, it is thought that it is important for the science course curriculum to include achievements that improve all dimensions and processes of health literacy. Keywords: Health Literacy, Science Education, Science Course Curriculum September, 2024; 72 pages