Lesson Plan: Topical Science - Maternal and Child Health

Grade Level: Fourth Level (Scottish Curriculum)

Desired Outcome: Having selected scientific themes of topical interest, I can critically analyze the issues and use relevant information to develop an informed argument.

Lesson Duration: 60 minutes

Resources: - Whiteboard or blackboard - Markers or chalk - Handouts with relevant information on maternal and child health - Internet access (optional)

Introduction (10 minutes): 1. Begin the lesson by asking students if they know what maternal and child health means. Write their responses on the board. 2. Explain that maternal and child health refers to the well-being of mothers and children, including their physical, mental, and social health. 3. Discuss the importance of maternal and child health and how it impacts society as a whole.

Activity 1: Selecting Scientific Themes (10 minutes): 1. Divide the class into small groups. 2. Provide each group with a list of scientific themes related to maternal and child health, such as breastfeeding, vaccination, prenatal care, or child nutrition. 3. Instruct the groups to choose one theme they find interesting and relevant to discuss further.

Activity 2: Research and Analysis (20 minutes): 1. Provide each group with handouts containing information on their chosen theme. 2. Instruct the groups to read and analyze the information critically, identifying key points, arguments, and evidence. 3. Encourage students to use additional resources, such as books or the internet, to gather more information if needed.

Activity 3: Developing an Informed Argument (15 minutes): 1. Instruct each group to develop an informed argument based on their analysis of the chosen theme. 2. Encourage students to consider different perspectives and potential counterarguments. 3. Remind them to support their argument with relevant information and evidence.

Activity 4: Group Presentations (15 minutes): 1. Ask each group to present their chosen theme, analysis, and informed argument to the class. 2. Encourage other students to ask questions and engage in a respectful discussion. 3. Facilitate the discussion by asking probing questions and encouraging critical thinking.

Conclusion (5 minutes): 1. Summarize the main points discussed during the presentations and the class discussion. 2. Emphasize the importance of critically analyzing scientific themes and using relevant information to develop informed arguments. 3. Encourage students to continue exploring and staying informed about topical science issues.

Assessment: - Observe students’ participation and engagement during group activities and class discussions. - Evaluate the quality of students’ informed arguments and their ability to critically analyze scientific themes. - Provide feedback on students’ presentations and their ability to respond to questions and engage in a respectful discussion.