Science Explorers

Science Explorers Programme

Objectives

The Science Explorers Programmes are conducted in every school term this year with a focus on different Science themes in line with MOE syllabus.  

What are the challenges that students face when learning Science?

Students with dyslexia face several key challenges when learning Science, such as:

  • Lack of prior knowledge: This can make it hard to understand new topics.

  • Struggling to read and comprehend Science texts: The language used in Science can be complex.

  • Spelling difficulties: They may struggle to spell specialised Science vocabulary.

  • Sequencing problems: Difficulty with understanding and following the correct order of Science processes.

These challenges can affect exam performance and self-confidence.

 

How does the Science Explorers Programme help?

The Science Explorers Programme at DAS helps students overcome these challenges using Inquiry-Based Learning. This approach:

  • Stimulates thinking and engages students in real-world Science investigations.

  • Helps students develop Science vocabulary and understand key concepts.

  • Encourages students to be independent builders of knowledge and skills.

Through this programme, students gain confidence and improve their academic skills, setting them up for success.

 

Who is the Science Programme Recommended For?

The programme is designed for Primary 3 to Primary 6 students.

It is ideal for those who benefit from an interactive and supportive learning environment that fosters curiosity and critical thinking. This approach is particularly beneficial for students who need a tailored method of learning Science.

Teaching Approach

Structure

The Science Explorers Programme is designed to support primary school students in:

  • Science Literacy: Developing reading comprehension skills in science texts.

  • Understanding Science Processes: Learning the steps involved in scientific methods and experiments.

  • Specialised Science Vocabulary: Building knowledge of key scientific terms and their correct usage.

  • Application of Concepts and Skills: Helping students apply what they’ve learned to answer science exam questions effectively.

This programme creates a fun and interactive environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for learning science. It’s ideal for students in Primary 3 to Primary 6 who need a different approach to learning and benefit from a supportive and engaging classroom setting.

What will students learn in the Science Explorers Programme?

In line with the MOE syllabus, the Science Explorers Programme covers key science themes, including:

  • Diversity

  • Interactions

  • Systems

  • Energy

  • Cycles

These themes are introduced through the respective science subjects each school term. Using the Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) approach, students will:

  • Engage with scientific concepts

  • Explore real-world applications

  • Explain their findings

  • Extend their knowledge

  • Evaluate their learning

The IBL approach helps students connect science concepts to their daily lives, society, and the environment, promoting experiential learning and fostering a deeper understanding of science.

Meet The Science Explorers Team

KAVITHA TIRUCHELVAM
Lead Educational Therapist
RETA Fellow
Yishun and Woodlands
Learning Centre

Programme Manager

Kavitha Tiruchelvam is a Lead Educational Therapist and a Programme Manager for the Specialised Educational Services (SES) Science Programmes.  Kavitha joined the Dyslexia Association of Singapore in 2007 and has been teaching and working with students with Dyslexia and other co-morbidities such as Speech & Language Impairment and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.  As Kavitha spearheads the Science Programmes at the DAS, she has conducted over 12 SES Science Explorers Workshops and 37 Science Explorers Short-Term Programmes for primary school students.  She is also a Triple Specialist who has taught the Prep2PSLE Programmes and the DAS Main Literacy Programme.  In addition, Kavitha continues to train and render support to her colleagues by sharing her wealth of experiences, especially when working with students who struggle with various specific learning difficulties.  Kavitha is a Fellow with the Register of Educational Therapists (Asia) and holds a Master’s in Inclusive & Special Education from Monash University, a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) with Double Majors in Mass Communication & Marketing and a Cambridge International Diploma for Teachers and Trainers in Dyslexia Studies.

Nur Farahin

Bishan and Tampines
Learning Centre

Class Schedule

Testimonials

Jyotsana’s Journey: Sowing the Seeds of Excellence in Science

Written by Nur Farahin

Jyotsana is a lower primary school student who was struggling in Science. After joining the DAS Science Programme, Jyotsana has developed a strong interest in the subject thanks to Educational Therapist Ms Farah. 

With a growing fascination in the subject, and the support of her DAS Educational Therapists, Jyotsana made a significant improvement in her examination, scoring more than twice her marks from the previous year. 

Read the full blog here!

My son is currently able to apply in the open ended and MCQ component that was taught during the Science programme, which I could see a slight difference in his confidence level now as it has built up when he is asked to read and answer the science questions when completing his school science worksheet.

I would like to commend that your science class has made an impact on my child's learning. He is only P2 when he signed up for this class. I had wanted to expose him to science as it is going to be a new subject when he enters P3. He is already struggling with English and Maths so I wanted him to be more prepared for Science in P3, and thank you for taking him in. And it turned out very well! He enjoyed the science classes very much. Somehow he managed to remember what you had taught him. When I asked him to share what he had learnt when his cousin was around, he turned to ask his cousin about the life cycle of a cockroach. When his cousin made a mistake on the life cycle, he could actually correct her. I was impressed. He was also very happy when he had a a party in class on the last day of the term. He told me that you read the test questions to him and he could answer some of them. Thank you for your patience and hard work. Please continue to make science interesting for these kids.

My child has benefited from the Science Explorers programme as she can better understand the Science concepts and remember the tips that have been provided by her Science Educational Therapist, Ms.Farahin. We are very pleased with her constant good results.

I did not expect him to pass his PSLE Science as he was always failing his Science. I am very happy! Thank you Teacher Kavitha.

Dear Ms Kavitha, I am so happy and proud of him that he scored AL1 for his Science! He did so well and exceeded my expectation. Especially his Science which is always between AL2 & AL4. Thank you very much for your teaching and guidance. Thank you for the support from DAS.

Thank you for the love, care and dedication that you have given him. I am beyond grateful for your guidance and support.

Thank you for motivating him for Science. He said the topics you taught came out in his PSLE.

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