Some students confuse the cause and effect of winter by saying that it is cold in the winter because of plants

Earth and Space

Misconception RESEARCH REVIEW

Therefore, they wouldn't think that plants change in their behaviours due to the seasons.

Resources to address this

  • Simple variations in temperature on a globe (11-14)

    Here you can show how the top and bottom of a globe are warmed less than the parts facing the source of illumination.

    View Resource

References

  • Baxter, J., () Children's understanding of familiar astronomical events, International Journal of Science Education, 11 (5) 502-513.

    Paper digest

IOP AWARDS 2025

Teachers of Physics Awards

The Teachers of Physics Award celebrates the success of secondary school physics teachers who have raised the profile of physics and science in schools. Nominations for 2025 are now open.

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