Mathematics and Science Education

Resources available include a research-based mathematics education handbook which enables New Zealand teachers to help primary and intermediate school children reach their real potential in mathematics. A similar science education handbook for teachers (which is also research-based) helps teachers to promote indepth and exciting learning for primary children in science.

Ordering

The mathematics education and science education resources can be ordered here.

New Zealand Mathematics Education Handbook

New Zealand Mathematics Education HandbookTitle:

New Zealand Mathematics Education Handbook: Primary and Intermediate School Years

Description:

This 91 page document includes sections on:
» Origin and nature of mathematics
» How children learn in mathematics
» Teaching roles
» Developing a unit plan
» Evaluating and reporting on children’s learning
» Organising for learning
» Mathematical ideas and capabilities 

About the Author:

Dr Fred Biddulph was a primary teacher and principal, a Senior Lecturer in mathematics education at the University of Waikato, a mathematics education researcher, an adviser to the National Education Monitoring Project (Mathematics), and a primary mathematics curriculum developer in New Zealand, the Solomon Islands and the Cook Islands. He was also principal adviser for the development of the Galaxy Mathematics Programme for junior primary school children, published internationally by Wendy Pye Limited.

Cuisenaire Rods Booklet

Cuisenaire Rods BookletTitle:

Cuisenaire Rods: A Guide to Using a Remarkable Mathematics Resource

Description:

The purposes of this booklet are to:
» Outline the powerful nature of Cuisenaire rods for children's mathematics learning
» Reintroduce primary teachers to their potential by indicating how they may be used to develop children's number ideas across the primary school

Author:

Dr Fred Biddulph

Science Education for Primary Children

Science Education for Primary ChildrenTitle:

Science Education for Primary Children: Suggestions for Teachers

Description:

This 12 page document outlines science ideas about the Living World, Natural Features of the World, Space, the Physical World and the Material World that are appropriate for primary school children. It also contains notes and suggestions to enable teachers to implement a science programme that encompasses these ideas.

About the Author:

This material was originally written by Dr Fred Biddulph for Selwyn School (Rotorua, New Zealand) and Glenview School (Hamilton, New Zealand). Fred Biddulph was a primary teacher for many years, and was the Research/Project Officer for the University of Waikato-based Learning in Science (Primary) Project. His doctorate was in Science Education. He also lectured in science education at the University of Waikato. In addition, he was principal adviser for the development of the Sunshine Science Programme, and co-authored 36 science books for children (published internationally by Wendy Pye Limited).