Key facts
UNE unit code: EDSE101
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Science education in the primary and middle school years opens children’s eyes to the wonders of physics, biology, chemistry, earth and space sciences. As a teacher, you can lay the groundwork to inspire students in these junior years to explore the sciences as they progress through their education.
This entry-level unit gives you a foundation in selected school science topics that are covered in primary and middle school programs.
Studying this unit, you will examine ideas from the physical, biological, chemical and earth and space sciences as they relate to the following topics: Energy, Electricity, Movement and Forces, Materials and their properties, Chemical Reactions, Earth and Space, Weather and Environment and Living things and their properties.
This unit also aims at developing your knowledge of the nature of science, and scientific processes such as using scientific inquiry methods, and communicating scientific findings. No specific science content knowledge background will be assumed.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Students in the Pathways Enabling Course and TRACKS should note that the content of this unit is aimed at intending primary initial teacher education students and does not prepare students for first-year level learning in Science-based degrees.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- develop knowledge and skills of school science topics;
- demonstrate an understanding of science processing skills;
- apply technologies to complete a range of activities; and
- communicate scientific information and skills to others.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 45% | All offerings | Written task. No. Words: 1800 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 45% | All offerings | Written task. No. Words: 1800 |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Quizzes x 2 (5% each) No. Words: 400 (equivalent) |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Teaching Primary Science Constructively
ISBN: 9780170472814
Skamp, K. and Preston, C. (eds), Cengage Learning 8th ed. 2024
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
