Joining with industry: innovative curriculum materials for technology and science for primary schools

There is a perceived need for curriculum materials that would support primary teachers taking up work placements. Primary classroom materials of this kind should encourage children to be innovative, develop analytical and problem solving skills and be pro-active towards their own learning. The rationale for the development of such a pack of curriculum materials for primary technology and science is discussed in relation to the educational and curriculum contexts of the materials and the ways in which innovative qualities can be developed in children through the use of 'real' contexts for classroom based work. The way in which product analysis can be used to facilitate understanding of innovation in the world of work is examined and some exemplar activities are provided.