THE PRIMARY GRADES SCIENCE – KINDERGARTEN THROUGH THIRD GRADE Good science teachers do everything in their power to encourage curiosity and foster wonder, especially in the primary grades. They know that, in many cases, if children aren’t enjoying science by third grade, they’re “lost” to this subject; after that, their attitudes may be fixed. A top goal at this age is to fascinate children with neat topics like whales and rockets and rainbows. Good science education really starts with the lesson that the world is an amazing place. When you visit a primary school science class, pay attention to how often the students ask questions. This is a pretty good gauge of whether the teacher is encouraging youngsters’ interests. Is this a room full of children eager with inquiries like “Why do bunnies hop?” and “How does the balloon get bigger?” Or is it mostly’ silence as the teacher drones through the day’s lesson? Remember that, at this young age, most children are bursting with “how” and “why” questions. You should be able to hear them. You should witness the teacher respond with straightforward answers and, when appropriate, simple demonstrations. Obviously, the instruction must suit the age and intellectual development of students....