Design Technology - International School of Duesseldorf

SCIENCE
Philosophy
The study of science is a fundamental part of the education of all young people; to
function effectively in, and contribute positively to society, they need to be
scientifically literate and to have knowledge of science. Effective science education
must have a firm practical basis and must be relevant to the everyday experience of
the students.
Students should be given opportunities to study and gain experience of natural
phenomena through research and discovery to develop a range of practical and
communicative skills. Students need to learn to analyze scientific information, to
recognize relevant facts and to develop critical thinking and rational problem solving
skills in science. Students should be encouraged to develop good attitudes to work
including cooperation, punctuality and safety.
Finally, science teaching should promote a view of science as a global pursuit
requiring worldwide communication and international cooperation.
PROGRAM
The principal objective is to provide students with a foundation that will make them
scientifically literate so that they may make informed judgments and decisions about
scientific issues, and can use the scientific process skills for problem solving.
Science is presented as a cooperative venture, involving collaboration between
individuals and cooperation on a national and international level. Students learn to
look on science as an activity which is constantly changing and developing and which
is influenced by social, economic, political, technological, ethical, moral and cultural
factors.
Learning about science is based on the process of enquiry. This involves studying
the ways in which scientists investigate the natural world and propose explanations
based on the evidence they collect. Enquiry-based activities are important in helping
students to develop an understanding of the scientific process.
Students are provided with opportunities to participate actively in scientific
investigations, and to use and apply their knowledge and understanding when
formulating explanations. Students are expected to be personally engaged in the
learning process and to have a positive attitude towards their work. This is
encouraged by involving students in enquiry-type activities and investigations and
through the use of a variety of continuous assessment techniques.
We adopt a holistic approach to learning which is reflected in a number of ways. We
work closely with our colleagues within the department and, where appropriate, with
other departments. The subject matter is coordinated across the scientific disciplines
and appropriate links with other subjects are pursued. The areas of interaction form
an integral part of the program. Students are provided with opportunities to develop
an awareness of environmental and health issues as well as the interdependence of
science and society and the historical development of scientific ideas.
There are strong links between science and technology and these are encouraged
and underpinned through the use of technology in a number of ways. In science the
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