EDUC 4510B - Biology Curriculum and Methodology B (UG)

North Terrace Campus - Semester 2 - 2014

The course aims to present information on a range of methodologies and develop a variety of pedagogical skills that will prepare students for the start of their teaching career in senior school biology

  • General Course Information
    Course Details
    Course Code EDUC 4510B
    Course Biology Curriculum and Methodology B (UG)
    Coordinating Unit School of Education
    Term Semester 2
    Level Undergraduate
    Location/s North Terrace Campus
    Units 3
    Contact 2 hours per week, in addition to a 2 hour common lecture focussing on Assessment and Reporting
    Prerequisites Pass in 6 courses of Biological Science
    Restrictions Available to B Teaching students only
    Course Description The course aims to present information on a range of methodologies and develop a variety of pedagogical skills that will prepare students for the start of their teaching career in senior school biology
    Course Staff

    Course Coordinator: Mr Maurice Wetherall

    Maurie Wetherall LECTURER  maurice.wetherall@adelaide.edu.au
    Course Timetable

    The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from Course Planner.

  • Learning Outcomes
    Course Learning Outcomes
    2.1 COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES  AITSL
    STANDARDS
     · Introduce students to Stage 1 and 2 SACE curricula for Biology 2.1 -2.3, 2.5,2.6
     · Examine National Curricula for junior and senior Biology 2.1 -2.3, 2.5,2.6
     · Discuss appropriate teaching/learning methodologies for SACE Biology  1.1,1.2,1.5,
    2.1 -2.3, 2.5,2.6
    3.1-3.6
     · Give students opportunities to develop and critically assess teaching programs
    for SACE Biology
     2.1 -2.3, 2.5,2.6
    3.1-3.6
     · Support students in their teaching practicum, where they involve the teaching of
    SACE Biology and junior secondary Biology classes
    4.1-4.5
     · Provide workshops for students to gather and share appropriate Biology teaching resources 2.1 -2.3, 2.5,2.6
     · Give students opportunities to demonstrate their learning in front of their peers 5.1-5.4
     · Opportunities for practical implementation of the concepts 3.1-3.6
     · Investigate varying assessment techniques and evaluation of programs, mark student work using SACE performance standards for Biology  2.3
    5.1-5.4
     · Confidently discuss and present teaching ideas in front of their peers 2.1,3.2,3.4,3.6
     · Show critical thinking interaction, oral and written presentations  2.1,2.2,3.2,
    3.3,3.5
     · Set up work programmes that are at appropriate levels for different student abilities 1.2,1.5,3.2,3.3,
    3.4,4.1
    University Graduate Attributes

    This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:

    University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s)
    Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised. 1,2
    The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner. 2,3,4
    A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies. 3,4
    A commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life. 5
    An awareness of ethical, social and cultural issues within a global context and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities. 1,2,5
  • Learning Resources
    Required Resources
    SACE Stage 1 and 2 Biology Course outlines from SACE website.
    Recommended Resources
    ( Not required to buy these but may be referred to during the course. Some of these can be purchased from me for a very low cost.)
    o Ruthven, Simon. Biology SACE 1 Key Ideas
    o Crierie A and Greig D. Biology Key Ideas (4rd edition)
    o Crierie A and Greig D. Biology SACE 2 Essentials Workbook (3nd edition)
    o Crierie A and Greig D. Stage 2 Practical Manual (2013 version)
    o Chambers W and Wetherall M. Revision Guide (2014 edition)
    o Dierks T and LeCornu B. Levels of Life Text book
    o Dierks T and LeCornu B. Workbook
    o Knox, Ladiges, Evans, Saint. Biology An Australian Focus (3rd edition) McGraw Hill
    o SASTA (South Australian Science Teachers Association) Revision Guide and Workbook.
    o Biozone workbooks for year 11 and 12
    Online Learning
    Some of the material will be available on Myuni
  • Learning & Teaching Activities
    Learning & Teaching Modes
    Workshop style lectures with extensive opportunities to view and discuss teaching methodology as it relates to SACE Biology. Students will be exposed to multiple resources for their teaching programs so that they may individualise future teaching according to the needs and context of their students. Students will mark current year 11 and 12 examples of different levels of assignments and tests according to SACE performance standards.
    Workload

    The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.

    Students are required to utilise an equal amount of time in independent study as time spent in lectures. This may involve reading, research or resource gathering. More time may be required to produce summative tasks
    Learning Activities Summary
    · Perceptions of Biology
    · Biological language
    · A look at junior secondary Biology in the Science program
    · An overview of SACE Stages 1 and 2 Biology
    · An analysis of the SACE course outlines and the Learning and Assessment Plans for Stage 1 and 2
    · Looking at areas of the curriculum that many students find difficult and investigating varying approaches to these challenges
    · Planning Units of work and topics for Stage 1 Biology and some resources for Stage 1
    · Planning lessons, how to use time effectively
    · Successful classroom teaching of Biology
    · How to organise and assess practical work.
    · Some ideas about setting and assessing the Investigations Issues essay part of the course
    · Meaningful assessment, including setting of topic tests and assignments, and marking in accordance with SACE Performance Standards.
    · Stage 2 Biology-Key concepts, depth of knowledge required
    · Choosing texts and workbooks for Stage 1 and 2 Biology
    · Setting up resources for teaching in the future
    · Using appropriate handouts for students
    · Using the internet for Biology
    · Using virtual practicals eg. Enzyme lab and dissections
    · Marking standards for classroom and SACE including some practise marking current student work, using appropriate SACE performance standards.
    · Professional Development and teaching support groups
    · Using ‘Moodle’ to create electronic assessment items.

    Schedule
    Tutorial Date Proposed Topics & AITSL Standards
     1 28th July
    1.10pm till 3pm
    Scientific method at stage 1 and 2
    Marking stage 2 pracs using performance standards

    1.2, 2.1, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3,5.4, 5.5.
     2

    4th August
    1.10pm till 3pm

    Look at revision guide, and how to help students with one on one tutoring.

    1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1,3.2, 3.3.
     3 11th August
    1.10pm till 3pm
    Setting up and marking stage 2 investigations issues essay.
    In class marking exercise. Assessment task 1

    2.3, 2.5, 5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 7.4,
    4 18th August
    1.10pm till 3pm
    Misconceptions in seniorBiology students.
    Looking for suitable short videos and Biology songs for any topics

    Submit at least 3 electronically to me for sharing
    among group. Assessment task 2.

    1.1, 1.2, 2.6, 3.4, 3.3, 3.66.3
     5 13th October
    1.10pm till 3pm
    Compare must know lists with course outlines and quick quizzes for stage 2 topics.

    1.2, 6.2, 6.3, 7.4
    6 20th October
    1.10pm till 3pm
    Unit plan assignment is due at 5pm. Assessment task 3
    Looking at a whole stage 1 and 2 program, and then preparation of Stage 2 student work for moderation.
    How moderation works.

    2.3, 3.2, 3.3
    7 27th October 1.10pm till 3pm A really close analysis of the 2013 stage 2 Biology examination, past exam analysis, and chief moderator report on 2012 exam.

    1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 2.2
    8 3rd November 1.10pm till 3pm Using available resources, and support mechanisms
    during first few years of teaching. SASTA information too

    7.2, 7.4
    Specific Course Requirements
    • the use of specialised facilities (Basic Laboratory and Workshop Safety Guidelines (unrevised)) or equipment (Plant/Equipment Safety Management (includes Electrical Equipment) (unrevised));
    • external placements and work experience including insurance information and frequently asked questions;
    • fieldtrips Field Work policy and guidelines (unrevised) and insurance information;
    • the input of other organisations such as SAPOL (eg police checks) Police Record Checks procedure policy(unrevised);
    • the use facilities out of hours (eg Computing laboratories, Music studios);
    • ancillary fees and charges Fees for Award Programs and Courses policy (revised);
    • the requirement for students with Colour Vision Impairment ('colour blindness') to obtain advice on how to participate in Electrical Engineering workshops.
  • Assessment

    The University's policy on Assessment for Coursework Programs is based on the following four principles:

    1. Assessment must encourage and reinforce learning.
    2. Assessment must enable robust and fair judgements about student performance.
    3. Assessment practices must be fair and equitable to students and give them the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned.
    4. Assessment must maintain academic standards.

    Assessment Summary
    You must provide an overview or Summary of Each Assessment Task, indicating task type (eg summative, formative), due date, weighting and identification of the Learning Outcomes addressed by each assessment task. 
    The summary must also indicate if there are any joint or collaborative student assessment tasks and state if the course is exempt from any requirement of the Assessment for Coursework Programs policy. 
    It might also include advice on whether any of the assessment requirements are to be negotiated with students. 
    Assessment Item Weighting Due Date
    • Attendance, contribution and active participation in workshops and class exercises, Collaboration with colleagues.
    • Marking of Investigations report assignment
    • Review of 3 Biology songs from different topics

    10%

    10%
    10%

    27 Oct

    11 Aug
    18 Aug
    • Topic plan for a 4 week block of classes
    70%
    Assessment Related Requirements
    Student must attend 80% of all Workshops. It is the student’s responsibility to make
    sure that they have signed off in workshops.

    Addressing University Graduate Attributes; 2, 3, 4, 5 and 8, and

    AITSL Standards: 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 2.4, 2.6,
    3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 4.2, 5.3, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 7.1, 7.2, 7.4.

    Assessment Detail
    Assessment item 3 :Topic Plan         70%
    Production of a unit of work that could be delivered by another teacher, to a SACE Stage 1 or 2 Biology class.
    Select a topic, which will be studied over approximately12 hours of contact time and homework.
    The package needs to be a well-defined program outline incorporating essential learning outcomes, suggested activities and appropriate support material that will allow another teacher to deliver the topic with little additional preparation. (Assume that you will be on long service leave and that
    your replacement teacher is a Biology teacher.) This should be designed so that the relief teacher does not have to hunt for obscure resources or to set up sophisticated demonstrations or complex practical activities.  You should include classroom activities,assignments (plus answers), at least one practical exercise (or other assessment task) and one test with criteria for successful achievement and a marking scheme.  The whole package should be in hard copy, and presented in an easily read, appealing and user-friendly format.
    The assessment tasks should include criteria for judging successful performance, and needs to reflect the balance of marks to each strand used by SACE in the final examination at SACE Stage 2:

    Acquiring knowledge of Biology           10%
    Understanding and problem solving    60%
    Using knowledge of Biology                10%
    Communicating knowledge of Biology 20%
     
    Due Date:  5.00pm on Monday 20th October 2013

    NOTES ON ASSESSMENT

    Structure of Unit of Work (use only as a guide)

    .Introduction-to provide an overview and identify the recipient group for whom the unit has
    been written.
    .The aims and essential learning outcomes.
    .Program outline including a suggested teaching sequence.
    .List of resources- include review of you tube clips, software packages and
    relevant Internet sites.
    .At least one PowerPoint presentation of approximately 20 minutes duration
    .Practical activities and demonstrations.
    .Assessment items (include criteria to assess whether objectives have been met). For example a test, and marking scheme. One test is a required assessment item.

    The unit of work should be compiled on a word processor and a printed copy presented in a folder.
    Hand in your assessment to the Student hub, Electronic copies of your assignments MUST be submitted on a CD or flash drive as well, and these could be collated onto a DVD and provided to all
    members of the group. These units of work will be extremely useful resources for your future teaching.

    Requests for extensions will be considered if they are made three days before the due date for which the extension is being sought.  In extreme circumstances, contact your course convener as a matter of urgency.

    Computer problems, resource availability and/or lost materials do notconstitute grounds for an extension.

    If you are experiencing any difficulties understanding an assigned task or meeting a deadline you are encouraged to make an appointment with your lecturer to discuss the matter as soon as the problem is apparent.  We understand that illness and family responsibilities usually affect everyone at some point.  If you discuss the difficulty with us promptly, we may be able to negotiate a solution.

    Students are encouraged to check their marks and notify the lecturer-in-charge of any discrepancies.

    Students must not submit work for an assignment that has previously been submitted and assessed for this course or any other course.

    Penalties for late submissions should only apply on business days.  This is so that a student submitting an assignment on Saturday is NOT penalised for Sunday as well.

    Submission

    No information currently available.

    Course Grading

    Grades for your performance in this course will be awarded in accordance with the following scheme:

    M10 (Coursework Mark Scheme)
    Grade Mark Description
    FNS   Fail No Submission
    F 1-49 Fail
    P 50-64 Pass
    C 65-74 Credit
    D 75-84 Distinction
    HD 85-100 High Distinction
    CN   Continuing
    NFE   No Formal Examination
    RP   Result Pending

    Further details of the grades/results can be obtained from Examinations.

    Grade Descriptors are available which provide a general guide to the standard of work that is expected at each grade level. More information at Assessment for Coursework Programs.

    Final results for this course will be made available through Access Adelaide.

  • Student Feedback

    The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as GOS surveys and Program reviews.

    SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/) course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at the conclusion of each term/semester/trimester for every course offering. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data is available.

  • Student Support
  • Policies & Guidelines
  • Fraud Awareness

    Students are reminded that in order to maintain the academic integrity of all programs and courses, the university has a zero-tolerance approach to students offering money or significant value goods or services to any staff member who is involved in their teaching or assessment. Students offering lecturers or tutors or professional staff anything more than a small token of appreciation is totally unacceptable, in any circumstances. Staff members are obliged to report all such incidents to their supervisor/manager, who will refer them for action under the university's student’s disciplinary procedures.

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