Creating and Using Adapted Primary Literature

Abstract

In Chap. 2we outlined the attributes characterizing four genres of scientific texts used for science learning: Primary Scientific Literature (PSL), Adapted Primary Literature (APL), Journalistic Reported Version (JRV), and textbooks. We discussed the resemblance between PSL and APL in terms of genre, content, organizational structure, and the presentation of science. In this chapter we describe the various steps taken for developing APL, starting from selecting the appropriate PSL along with the various modifications that are incorporated into the text to make it understandable and usable by the target audience. Subsequently, we outline several instructional approaches that were developed for the use of APL in schools, and the benefits and limitations of those approaches. The last part of this chapter focuses on the materials that were developed to support teachers in using APL, including workshops for teachers implementing APL-based curricula and a multimedia teachers’ guide with videotaped teaching episodes.