A Qualitative Study of Elementary School 6th Grade Students' Alternative Conceptions of Respiration

Author: Huey-Lien Kao(Department of Natural Science Education, National Pingtung Teachers College, Associate Professor), Ming-Chou Su(Department of Environmental Engineering Sanitation, Tajen Institute of Technology, Associate Professor), Mao-Tsong Sheu(Kaohsiung Municipal Shy-Wei Elementary School, Teacher)

Vol.&No.：Vol. 48, No.1
Date：April 2003
Pages：63-92
DOI：10.6300/JNTNU.2003.48(1).04

Abstract：

The purpose of this research project in the field of elementary school science teaching was to explore 6 ^th grade students' alternative conceptions of respiration. Data collection in this study was based on the open paper-and-pencil tests of 215 6 ^th grade students from two elementary schools in Kaohsiung City; 70 students with a tendency toward alternative conceptions of respiration were selected. The study further conducted concept mapping, drawings of the human body's respiratory system, and drawings showing the respiratory process in green plants. Finally, 38 of these students were selected for individual interviews. The results of the study showed that students had many alternative conceptions regarding the following issues: the definition of respiration, gas exchange, respiratory exercises, relationship to photosynthesis, and the organs/sites of respiration.

Keywords：concept map, alternative conceptions, respiration

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