Abstract:
This paper summarises some results of a research in which we developed a model of teaching, that facilitates the planning and the assessment of teaching sequences. The model proposes three levels of understanding, according to the triads intra-, inter- and trans-object of Piaget and Garcia (1984). We present data from a study of an introductory thermal physics class for 8th grade students (14/15 years of age) and analyse the learning cases of two pupils, following their progress during the course. We conclude that the model favours: 1. different paths of evolution, respecting pupils' skills and interests; 2. a self-reflection on the teaching process through recognising the development of pupils' structures of thinking; 3. adjustment of teaching to students characteristics and necessities.
Keyword:
science learning; planning and evaluation of classroom leçon.