The following is a list of questions and answers designed to support teacher facilitation of Primary Connections Science for Families resources, and to inform and guide implementation.

Please note that responses represent suggestions and general advice only. We acknowledge and recommend that decisions and approaches to remote learning are referenced with state and jurisdiction advice, school contexts and teacher judgement.

Each resource is a single PDF. Generally, it includes a two-page parent/carer document, and student task sheets where applicable.

Primary Connections resources are free to use and share for educational purposes.

Resources are categorised by Science Strand and align to curriculum: Science as a Human Endeavour and Science Inquiry Skills. As such, they can be used as standalone activities or embedded in a lesson sequence.

Pens, pencils, markers or crayons, A4 paper or a scrapbook, scissors and glue.

For most tasks, technology is optional. An icon across the top of page one, clearly indicates any technology requirement.

Apart from general stationery, most tasks utilise everyday objects and materials that are easily located in and around the home. It is very unlikely that equipment or materials will need to be purchased.

Some activities may require supervision however, this varies depending on the level of independence and other student needs.

Preparation will vary but it is expected to take no longer than 10 minutes. This includes reading the resource and gathering equipment or materials as appropriate.

The resources include suggestions for parents or carers to support students before and after tasks. This may include, viewing a video, reading a book, and questions to guide a conversation with students. A minimum of 10 minutes is generally required however, time to undertake this interactive aspect will vary.

Activities require a minimum of 10 minutes, excluding completion of task sheets. Total time will vary but it is expected that students will be engaged for at least 30 minutes.

To encourage student curiosity and inquiry, each resource includes suggested activities for further exploration. These are located at the bottom of the page below the heading ‘Explore some more’.

Resources can be printed, or saved to a USB (or equivalent), and posted. Alternatively, they can be shared digitally on a range of platforms.

The tasks have been designed so that they can be uploaded to whatever platform you choose, or they can be printed and posted to school. For the latter option, you may create a montage of student work, take a photograph and send it to families and students.

The task sheets are modeled on Primary Connections’ e-Resource sheets and are suitable work samples to inform and guide assessment.

Refer to the ‘Teacher background information’ (TBI) the relevant Primary Connections unit. For example, for ‘Magnetic treasure hunt’, relevant TBI can be found in the curriculum unit, Magnetic moves. Or, send us an email at pc@science.org.au and we will support you.

Student questions are expected and encouraged. You may invite students, parents or carers to submit questions for your information. Respond and manage questions as you feel is appropriate and practical.