An Analysis of the Science Curricula in Turkey with Respect to Spiral Curriculum Approach

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the science curricula which is being implemented in Turkey with respect to spiral curriculum approach.  To carry out this analyze 3^th, 4^th, 5^th, 6^th, 7^th and 8^th grade education programs are analyzed correlatively based on qualitative research method.  The research findings were analyzed in terms of iterative revisiting of topics in different grade levels and gradual sophistication of topics in different grade levels. According to the research findings, topics in each learning area do not appear to be represented in each grade level. Topics covered in the learning area of living beings and life are generally taught in two grade levels and not presented in more detail in higher grades. As the topics are repeated, they become more complex and detailed. In this research spiral curriculum approach is depicted based on the related literature and the science curricula in Turkey are analyzed with this respect. To understand implementation of the spiral approach in a curriculum is supposed to lead to enrich the comments to be made in this approach and also become a guide in light of these comments.

Keywords: Science education programs, content, spiral curriculum