About Primary Science Day

Primary Science Day is a designated day, devoted to promoting science in primary schools. It is based on a model which has been a huge success in Ireland. Currently, South Africa is statistically ranked as one of the weakest countries in science and mathematics, particularly in the junior grades. In seeking to address this status, it is imperative that an interest and understanding of mathematics and science is inculcated in the younger learners.

PSD 2007 is being held in KwaZulu-Natal on 18 September 2007.

The proposed objectives and outcomes of the SAASTA model are:

• demonstrate the importance of science in our every day lives;
• illustrate that science can be fun;
• develop creativity within young learners around science and technology; and
• ignite interest in and promote positive attitudes in young learners towards science and technology.
• empower educators through the provision of science resources and facilitation skills to make science fun, attractive and educational.

An interactive, "hands-on" approach is key in the design and implementation of the model. Hence, learner and educator material is developed according to curricular outcomes and each educator participating in the programme is equipped with a "science toolbox". Due to SAASTA's considerable experience in the field of Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) promotion, the project plan also defines educator training as a critical component for the success of this project. A substantial core of the programme will be devoted towards securing educators' participation in the project, and more importantly, their ability to conduct a high-quality, exciting and interactive lesson on the day.

Plans are afoot to expand the project to include activities during the year and culminating in competitions / projects which end on Primary Science Day itself.