New publications

Science Essentials is a series of three complementary resources for lower, middle and upper primary levels. The series combines science and literacy, including ICT literacy, in such a way that students who favour one discipline can gain skills and confidence in both. Each book features activities that involve students in group to work around extended investigations, encouraging brainstorming to stimulate thinking. The chapter titles are the same for all three books but different aspects of the subjects are studied at each level, promoting continuity. See also publisher's description.

Teaching Mathematics in Primary Schools, a collaboration between Australian and overseas authors, moves beyond traditional approaches of teaching mathematics to emphasise how students can learn to think mathematically in the 'new times' of globalisation and a technology-rich society. Based on current international research, the book focuses on learning outcomes and the general principles that underlie educational practices rather than any specific curriculum. Current approaches to mathematics education are explained and critiqued, and insights into why some students have difficulties with mathematics are provided. Teachers are shown how to encourage their students to develop deep learning in mathematics and how to relate mathematics to the rest of the curriculum. (Adapted from publisher's description).

This book reports the results of a five-year longitudinal study in Baltimore, USA, tracing literacy development from pre-kindergarten through to third-grade for a sample of children from low and middle income families of European and African heritage. The authors examined the intimate culture of each child’s home, defined by a confluence of parental beliefs, recurrent activities, and interactive processes, in relation to children’s literacy competencies. Also examined were teacher beliefs and practices, and connections between home and school. (Adapted from publisher's description).

Inclusive Education is a practical guide to working with primary and secondary students who need extra attention because of disabilities or giftedness. The authors outline the principles behind educational diversity and inclusive policies, and discuss the range of different needs teachers can expect to encounter in an inclusive classroom. The practical issues involved in assessment, planning and implementing an inclusive curriculum are explained. Strategies for managing the classroom and promoting positive social relationships are also covered. The emphasis is on ensuring that students with special needs receive worthwhile educational experiences, without compromising the needs of other students in the classroom. The tested strategies provided by the authors are straightforward and easy to implement. (Adapted from publisher's description).