Learning and Understanding of the Physical Science L Concepts of Force Work and Energy at the Standard Seven Level

Abstract

This study has been investigating why Black students seem to be experiencing difficulties in acquiring the accepted scientific Understanding of the Physical Science concepts of force, work and energy. The instruments used to collect the empirical data for the study were student questionnaires, student interviews, lesson observations and analysis of the textbooks that are recommended for the Standard 7 level. The study was conducted in 12 schools selected randomly from schools in the King William's Town area. The sample consisted of urban, semi-urban and rural schools. Focus was on the Standard 7 students, their teachers and the textbooks recommended for the level. The analysis of the student questionnaire and interviews revealed that students showed incorrect understandings of the Physical Science concepts of force, work and energy. Some of the teachers have also been found to have an l inappropriate scientific understanding of the Physical Science concepts concerned.