Teaching science with discovery approach focusing on energy: The unit of matter and energy for living things

ABSTRACT Teaching Science with Discovery Approach Focusing on Energy: The Unit of Matter and Energy for Living Things" Ercan AKPINAR As we examine the primary science education curriculum being applied since the year 2001-2002, it has been seen that it suggests preparing an instructional climate for students to reach knowledge by doing, living and using mental skills with the aim of student centered teaching. This program is affected by constructivism theory based to connect the students' old and new knowledge by making students to build their own knowledge. In this study, learning and teaching materials (concept maps, games, analogies, case studies, computer presentations, models) that are suitable for constructivist theory and student centered education besides discovery approach were prepared and applied to the 8th grade students for The unit of "Matter and Energy for Living Things" In this study, the experimental group (n=31) and control group (n=31) were selected from Leman Alptekin Primary School. The experimental group were taught by using the prepared materials whereas the control group were taught traditionally. Before and after application, each group were given multiple choice achievement test, open-ended questions and applied science attitude scale. At the end of the teaching, 9 students from each group were interviewed. Besides this, the experimental group were observed. Finally there is a significant difference between the experimental group and the control group on the cognitive and effective level in favor of the experiment group. Key Words: Constructivist theory, discovery approach, science teaching, material preparing