This resource is written for elementary school teachers and administrators to provide guidance for the safe delivery of hands-on science and technology programs to students. The resource focuses closely on the elementary science and technology curriculum (The Ontario Curriculum, Science and Technology, Grades 1–8 (2007) Revised).
A Safety Planning Framework is used throughout this resource to assist teachers in planning hands-on activities for each strand in the curriculum. The Framework helps teachers to:
- identify hazards;
- assess risks; and
- make safety plans.
In elementary school, students explore scientific and technological concepts using equipment, materials, and strategies as well as hand and power tools (and the associated skills). The materials and equipment used in elementary science and technology programs are usually less hazardous than those used in secondary school programs. Nevertheless, teacher training is essential to help ensure that student activities are conducted safely and effectively.
For the purposes of this document, “students” includes students with English language learning needs, religious accommodation needs, and various special education needs:
- accommodations only;
- modified programs and modified expectations with the possibility of accommodations; and
- alternative programs with alternative expectations.