THE PEDAGOGICAL NEXUS IN TEACHING ELECTRICITY CONCEPTS IN THE GRADE 9 NATURAL SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY CLASSROOM

International Journal of Education (IJE) Vol.13, No.2, June 2025
DOI:10.5121/ije.2025.13203 31
THE PEDAGOGICAL NEXUS IN TEACHING
ELECTRICITY CONCEPTS IN THE GRADE 9
NATURAL SCIENCES AND
TECHNOLOGY CLASSROOM
Asheena Singh-Pillay and Siyanda Masuku
Science and Technology Education, Cluster, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban,
South Africa
ABSTRACT
This study examines the pedagogical approaches employed by Grade 9 Natural Sciences (NS) and
Technology (Tech) teachers when teaching electricity concepts in South African classrooms, in KwaZulu
Natal. Research indicates that learners' conceptual understanding and misconceptions of electricity
directly correlate with teaching quality and teachers' pedagogical content knowledge. The study explores
how the pedagogical practices across both subject’s impact student learning, to identify strategies for
teaching these cross-cutting concepts and improve electricity education outcomes. Mavhunga’s Topic
Specific Pedagogical Content Knowledge framed this study theoretically. Data was generated using
individual interviews, lesson observations and document analysis. Participants were purposively selected.
The finding illustrates a clear nexus in teachers' pedagogical practices when teaching electricity in Natural
Sciences (NS) and Technology at the Grade 9 level. This connection manifests through multiple teaching
strategies, including chalk-and-talk, discussions, demonstrations, hands-on activities, projects, and digital
technologies such as simulations and YouTube videos.
KEYWORDS
Electricity, natural sciences, technology, pedagogy, nexus
1. INTRODUCTION
Technology and Science represent interconnected domains of knowledge that continuously
enhance and inform each other. The Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements [1] in the South
African context stress that teaching NS and Tech necessitates making explicit
links between linked subjects in order to improve
students' understanding and capacity to apply these ideas to their daily lives. Electricity
represents one such crucial intersection between these disciplines, introduced in Grades 4-6 as an
integrated subject NS-Tech (Intermediate Phase) and expanded upon in Grades 7-9 (Senior
Phase) as distinct subjects, that is, as Technology (Tech) and Natural Science (NS). The argument
put forth in this paper is that the pedagogical approaches employed in teaching electricity
concepts in the Grade 9 Natural Sciences and Technology classroom create a critical nexus and
foundation for learners' conceptual understanding (or misconceptions) of electricity in higher
grades. Research indicates that learners' conceptual understanding of electricity and
misconceptions correlate with teaching quality and teachers' pedagogical content knowledge [2,
3]. These misconceptions arise from how electricity is taught to learners. Each NS and Tech
teacher, intentionally or unintentionally, creates, shapes, and enacts the gazetted curriculum,
which encompasses explicitly and implicitly [4]. They tailor and convey their unique perspectives

32
and initiatives to learners through their teaching styles and pedagogical approaches. As a result,
the curriculum that learners experience - known as the achieved curriculum - may differ from the
gazetted curriculum [4].
Moodley [5] emphasises that electricity concepts are particularly challenging due to their abstract
nature and complexity, making them pedagogically demanding. The cross-cutting concepts of
electricity in NS and Tech require careful consideration of teaching approaches and thorough
teacher preparation. Recent studies examining the teaching of electric circuits globally and
locally have revealed significant challenges in this domain [2, 3, 6]. Researchers consistently
identify electric circuits as an abstract topic that presents substantial teaching and learning
challenges [7]. The study of [8] and [9] shows how South African grade 9 learners struggle to
perform well in international benchmarking exams, such as Trends in International Mathematics
and Science Study (TIMSS), particularly in electricity-related questions. Thus, it is key to get
more insight into the way in which the topic on electricity, is taught in both NS and Tech in
Grade 9 classrooms.
Studies [3, 5] have attempted to shed light on NS teachers' pedagogical content knowledge (PCK)
on electricity. While research has examined NS and Tech teaching practices separately, a notable
gap exists in understanding the nexus between these approaches—particularly how similarities,
differences, and gaps in pedagogical practices across these subjects’ impact student learning. The
present study addresses this gap by exploring both NS and Tech teachers' pedagogical approaches
to teaching electricity and examining the nature of the nexus between these practices. Exploring
the pedagogical practices used to teach these cross-cutting concepts in NS and Tech can provide
valuable deeper insights into the strategies or nexus employed to facilitate learning for diverse
learners. The nexus also highlights similarities in pedagogical approaches to teaching electrical
concepts, identifying teaching method differences and recognising knowledge construction gaps.
Based on the identified challenges and the importance of the pedagogical nexus in electricity
education, this study explores:
What pedagogies do Grade 9 NS and Tech teachers employ when teaching electricity?
How does the pedagogical practice of the Grade 9 NS and Tech teachers impact their
electricity teaching?
Through addressing these questions, this research contributes meaningfully to our
understanding of how electricity education can be improved at this crucial stage of learners'
educational journey.
2. LITERATURE REVIEW
This literature review examines current research on pedagogical approaches in teaching
electricity, cross-curricular connections, subject-specific PCK,
Traditional versus Constructivist Approaches
Research on pedagogical approaches to teaching electricity reveals a tension between traditional
and constructivist methodologies. Duit and von Rhöneck [10] argue that traditional, teacher-
centred approaches often fail to address preconceptions that students bring to electricity lessons.
This results in fragmented understanding when teachers employ lecture-based instruction without
practical application. In contrast, constructivist approaches that build on students' prior
knowledge and encourage active exploration show more promising results in developing
conceptual understanding [11].

33
Moodley and Gaigher [2] found that 67% of observed Grade 9 NS lessons in South Africa were
predominantly teacher-centred, with limited practical investigations or conceptual discussion
opportunities. Similarly, [12] observed that Tech teachers, while more likely to incorporate
hands-on activities, often failed to connect these activities to underlying scientific principles.
Inquiry-Based Learning and Practical Work
Research consistently demonstrates that inquiry-based learning approaches yield positive
outcomes for teaching electricity concepts. Mji and Makgato [13] (2006) show that authentic
investigation and problem-solving significantly improve students' conceptual understanding of
electricity. Nemadziva et al. [14] found guided inquiry approaches—where teachers provide
structured support while allowing student exploration—particularly effective in South Africa.
However, implementation varies significantly. Ramnarain et al, [11] noted divergences in
inquiry-based learning utilization, especially in disadvantaged communities lacking resources and
teacher training. Kim et al [15] observed that while CAPS curriculum documents advocate for
inquiry-based approaches, implementation varies widely based on school resources and teacher
preparation.
Onder et al [16] found that practical work yields significant benefits in technology classrooms,
though many Tech teachers struggle to connect practical activities with theoretical concepts,
creating disconnects that hamper student understanding.
Cross-Curricular Connections
Despite the curricular overlap in electricity concepts between NS and Tech, research suggests
limited teacher coordination. Singh-Pillay and Alant [17] found minimal evidence of deliberate
cross-curricular planning or alignment, with teachers rarely discussing cross-curricular
connections and students seldom encouraged to transfer knowledge between subjects.
Poti [3] examined how conceptual frameworks for electricity differ between NS and Tech
curricula, revealing significant opportunities for strengthening the nexus through coordinated
teaching approaches. While NS focuses on conceptual understanding of electrical principles,
Tech emphasizes application and design—creating complementary rather than redundant learning
opportunities.
Zulu [6] investigated coordinated teaching strategies across NS and Tech, finding that student
misconceptions dropped by 32% when teachers actively cooperated and aligned their
instructional techniques compared to control groups, highlighting the potential benefits of
pedagogical connections.
Subject-Specific Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK)
Kind [18] established that effective science teaching requires specialized pedagogical content
knowledge—the unique blend of content knowledge and pedagogical knowledge specific to
teaching particular subjects. Rollnick et al. [19] investigated South African NS teachers' PCK
regarding electricity concepts, identifying significant gaps in how teachers conceptualize and
represent electrical concepts, particularly circuit analysis and energy transformation.
For Tech teachers, Mapotse [20] found that PCK often emphasizes procedural knowledge over
conceptual understanding, with teachers frequently focusing on helping students complete
practical tasks without sufficient attention to underlying principles. Basitheva [21] notes that

34
teacher preparation programs in South Africa often separate NS and Tech methodologies,
reinforcing the pedagogical divide students experience.
Challenges in Teaching Electricity Concepts
Abstract Nature and Conceptual Difficulties
Electricity presents particular challenges due to its abstract nature. Quezada-Espinoza et al [2023]
identified persistent conceptual difficulties, including confusion between current and voltage,
misconceptions about complete circuits, and difficulties understanding parallel and series
connections.
Gaigher [7] found that language barriers and limited resources in South African classrooms
exacerbate these difficulties. South Africa has a multilingual learning environment. Learners who
are taught in languages other than their home language or mother tongue face extra difficulties
comprehending abstract terms or concepts on electricity.
Resource Limitations and Implementation Challenges
Resource limitations constrain practical pedagogical approaches. Oguoma et al [2019] found that
63% of surveyed South African schools lacked adequate equipment for electricity experiments.
Teachers struggle to implement effective practical activities without basic resources like
batteries, bulbs, and wires. Maimela [9] highlights time constraints as additional challenges.
Teachers frequently report insufficient time to cover electricity concepts with the required depth
for conceptual understanding, leading to didactic approaches focused on examination preparation
rather than deep conceptual development.
Impact on Student Understanding and Misconceptions
Research documents numerous persistent misconceptions, including beliefs that current is
consumed in circuits, that batteries provide constant current regardless of configuration, and
confusion about current flow direction [24]. Moodley [5] found these misconceptions persist
through Grade 9 into higher grades, becoming increasingly resistant to change if not addressed
early.
Critically, teacher pedagogical approaches directly influence misconception formation and
persistence. Shen et al. [25] demonstrated that teacher-centred approaches emphasizing
memorization over conceptual understanding tend to reinforce rather than resolve electricity
misconceptions. Poti [3] found that misconceptions solidify when educators fail to address
prevalent misunderstandings or provide opportunities for students to assess their comprehension
through hands-on research, highlighting the importance of deliberate pedagogical strategies.
3. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
This study employs Topic Specific Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TSPCK) as its theoretical
framework to examine pedagogical approaches Natural Sciences and Technology teachers use
when teaching electricity concepts in Grade 9 classrooms.
TSPCK represents a refinement of [26, 27] work, recognizing that teaching knowledge is highly
contextualized and specific not only to subjects but to particular topics within those subjects. As
articulated by [28], this specificity is crucial because different topics present unique conceptual
challenges requiring distinct pedagogical approaches. In South Africa, TSPCK has gained

35
significant traction in science education research, with studies by [29, 11] demonstrating its
utility in examining teachers' knowledge development and classroom practices.
TSPCK comprises five interrelated components representing a teacher's capacity to transform
subject matter knowledge into learner-accessible forms:
Learner Prior Knowledge
How teachers identify, assess, and address students' existing understanding of electricity
concepts, including common misconceptions about current flow, circuit connections, and energy
transformation.
Curricular Saliency
Teachers' ability to identify and prioritize core electricity concepts, recognize their curriculum
sequencing, and understand relationships to broader disciplinary themes, such as ensuring
foundational circuit principles precede complex ideas like Ohm's law.
What Makes the Topic Difficult
Teachers' awareness of electricity's conceptual challenges, particularly its abstract nature,
invisible processes, and counter-intuitive principles that learners typically find challenging.
Representations
The analogies, models, and demonstrations teachers use to make abstract electricity concepts
accessible, including physical circuit models, water flow analogies, or computer simulations of
electron movement.
Teaching Strategies
Specific instructional approaches addressing known difficulties and misconceptions, such as
inquiry-based investigations, predict-observe-explain sequences, or structured practical work.
TSPCK offers several advantages for examining the nexus between Natural Sciences and
Technology pedagogical practices. It provides a structured lens for analyzing how teachers
transform electricity understanding into pedagogically effective forms, acknowledges content-
specific pedagogical knowledge requirements, and enables comparison of practices across
subjects to identify alignment or disconnection areas. The framework's emphasis on learner prior
knowledge directly addresses how pedagogical approaches influence conceptual understanding,
while its extensive development in South African science education research enhances its
contextual relevance within the CAPS curriculum framework.
4. METHODOLOGY
This qualitative study adopted an interpretative paradigm and case study design to understand
Grade 9 Natural Sciences and Technology teachers' experiences of teaching electricity concepts.
The study sought to explore the subjective world of teachers' pedagogical practices and derive
meaning from their shared experiences.
Six teachers from three schools in the Eshowe circuit of King Cetshwayo district participated in
this study. Selection criteria required participants to teach Natural Sciences, Technology, or both

36
subjects at the Grade 9 level. The sample comprised two teachers per school, with varying subject
combinations across the three schools.
Data Collection Multiple data collection methods were employed following ethical approval
(HSSREC 00006716/2024):
Individual Interviews
Thirty-minute audio-recorded interviews explored teachers' pedagogical approaches, reasons for
method selection, activity design, complex concepts, awareness of learner misconceptions, prior
knowledge assessment, and misconception rectification strategies.
Lesson Observations
Each teacher was observed during two electricity lessons, totalling twelve observations. An
observation schedule examined lesson structure, teaching methods, and overall impressions. All
observations were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim.
Post-observation Interviews: Conducted after each lesson to gain deeper insights into teachers'
pedagogical choices and explore observed teaching practices further.
Document Analysis
Teaching portfolios were analyzed to examine pedagogical approaches, planned learner activities,
and assessment methods used in electricity instruction.
Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim and assigned pseudonyms (P1-P6). Interview
transcripts underwent multiple reviews and coding based on the study's conceptual framework
constructs. An "open-coding" approach was adopted, using line-by-line and phrase-by-phrase
techniques to identify standardized remarks and group them into sections. Concepts were derived
from collected data, with codes subsequently regrouped into themes for analysis.
Table 1 Themes
Pedagogy Employed Number of
Teachers
Categories: Impact of the
Pedagogies used
Themes
Chalk-and-Talk (drawings
on board/charts)
Discussion, jigsaw,
think- pair-share
methods
Demonstrations, hands-
on activities, project
P1, P3,
P5
 Promotes conceptual
understanding
 Scaffolds learning
 Addresses learner
misconceptions
 Fosters learners’ collaboration
and verbal communication skills
Promotes
conceptual
learning,
Collaboration
Demonstrations, hands-
on activities, projects
Discussion, jigsaw,
think- pair-share
methods
P2, P3,
P1, P6
 Promotes problem-solving and
critical thinking skills
 Provides experiential /
hands-on learning,
Promote
minds and
hands- on
skills minds- and hands-on
Digital technology
(simulations and
YouTube videos)
P6  Develops process skills (NS)
and promotes creativity (Tech)

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5. FINDING AND DISCUSSION
Chalk-and-Talk
Two teachers employed traditional chalk-and-talk methods, using chalkboards and charts to
explain electricity concepts. During the interview a participant mentioned “I rely on the
chalkboard to get learner to make sense of concepts that are difficult and abstract like atoms,
charges, resistance" (P1 interview). This approach allows visual demonstration of electrical
principles and circuits. Using chalkboards remains well-established in science education [30]
with research suggesting that diagrams help students develop mental models of electrical systems
[31].
However, classroom observations revealed significant limitations. Lessons were predominantly
teacher-centred with minimal learner participation: "That learner participation was minimal
during the lesson, and the lesson was very teacher-centred" (P1 observation). While this
pedagogy effectively utilises 'teachers' content knowledge and makes abstract concepts concrete
through visual representations, it has notable drawbacks. Research demonstrates that traditional
chalk-and-talk methods inadequately address electricity misconceptions and fail to promote
deeper conceptual understanding when applying circuit laws [32]. This contrasts with East Asian
contexts where similar methods yield success in international assessments like TIMSS and
PIRLS [33], suggesting cultural and contextual factors influence traditional teaching
effectiveness.
Discussion, Jigsaw, Think-Pair-Share Strategies
Three participants employed direct instruction with facilitated discussions, jigsaw, and think-pair-
share methods to teach electricity concepts. These interactive strategies allow teachers to explain
key ideas while engaging students in dialogue to check understanding.
P3 described using discussions and think-pair-share for resistance concepts: " I use discussions,
jigsaw, think-pair-share, and other interactive approaches when teaching electricity. For
instance, when teaching resistance and the variables that affect it, I employ think-pair-share,
which involves learners brainstorming in pairs and then using real-world examples to discuss the
factors and how they affect resistance”.
P4 implemented structured problem-solving approaches: "In my teaching of electricity, I let
learners analyse a problem on circuits, alone, then I ask them to share with the person seated
alongside them their solution and reasoning, thereafter the pair share their consolidated
understanding to the class. I have noted that this improves learners' confidence in presenting
ideas, reasoning, problem-solving skills, and conceptual understanding."
P5 utilised jigsaw methods for complex concepts: "I have tried discussions and jigsaw methods
for teaching electricity, for example, Ohm’s Ohm’s law concepts by breaking them into
manageable components. In this approach, learners are first grouped into ''expert'' teams, each
focusing on different aspects of circuit analysis, and then they move between groups to share
their ideas; this is an easy way to identify misconceptions."
These discussion strategies effectively reveal and address learner misconceptions. P3 noted:
"During these discussions, learners are forced to think, predict, and explain how changing
resistance affects current flow." Each teacher employed different approaches: P5 facilitated class
discussions to identify misconceptions, P3 provided varied activities with correction sessions, and
P4 linked concepts to real-life situations and considered learners' background knowledge. These

38
findings align with those of [34],which mentioned that teacher-led conversations about series and
parallel circuits help students express logic about voltage distribution and current flow. Deeper
conceptual understanding and active involvement are encouraged by interactive teaching
approaches [35].
Chen and Thompson [32] found that learners participating in regular classroom discussions about
electrical concepts exhibited improved problem-solving abilities compared to those taught using
traditional methods alone.
Research by [31] demonstrated that learners taught using jigsaw methods showed 35%
improvement in complex circuit analysis abilities. Thompson et al. [36] found that utilising
multiple strategies—think-pair-share for prior knowledge activation, jigsaw grouping for concept
exploration, and whole-class discussion—successfully enhanced students' circuit analysis
capabilities while addressing various learning styles and providing concept reinforcement
opportunities.
Demonstrations, Hands-on Activities, Projects
Four teachers employed practical demonstrations, experiments, and project-based learning to
address electricity's abstract nature. P2 explained: "Because some concepts are abstract, practical
work is important when teaching the topic of electricity- it helps learners to understand these
concepts which they cannot see, like charge and resistance." P3 used "demonstrations and hands-
on activities to scaffold conceptual understanding and pracs where learners manipulate variables
to understand concepts." P4 implemented project-based learning, allowing "learners to apply
what they have learnt on electricity to solve problems in their community."
According to [37] demonstrations bridge theoretical knowledge and observable phenomena,
helping visualise invisible electrical processes. Hands-on activities enable learners to observe
phenomena, develop science process skills, and validate theoretical concepts through empirical
investigation. Singh-Pillay [38] and [39] note that project-based learning enhances technological
literacy and scientific reasoning skills, aligning with constructivist learning theories emphasising
active engagement [40, 41].
Digital Technology
Two of the six participants use technology in teaching the topic of electricity, as reflected in the
comments below:
"Simulations are great tools when you have non-functional equipment or no equipment for pracs
-- they are good as learners can manipulate the resistor to test the bulb's brightness, and they are
safe." (Interview, P1)
"I use YouTube videos to teach some aspects on electricity – I found that it is a great way to
capture the interest and participation of learners during the lesson, and it is interactive."
(Interview, P4)
Using simulations and YouTube videos helps learners visualise abstract electrical concepts,
complementing hands-on activities. By providing students with dynamic visual content,
providing practical context for abstract ideas, and facilitating interactive and collaborative
learning, YouTube videos and other digital media have revolutionized science education. By
offering visual and interactive learning experiences, multimedia and interactive technologies
greatly enhance students' comprehension of abstract electrical ideas [36]. Chen et al. [32] found
that integrating multimedia into science education can enhance conceptual understanding by

39
40%, particularly in subjects that require complex spatial and functional reasoning like
electricity.
P4 utilises PhET simulations to stage demonstrations, helping learners grasp concepts more
effectively. These concepts include the flow of current and the distinction between voltage and
electric current. Incorporating PhET interactive simulations has proved to be a powerful
pedagogical tool. They are safe and provide a risk-free setting for investigating electrical
concepts allowing students to interactively change factors like resistance, voltage, and current in
real time, abstract ideas become more concrete and understandable.
Additionally, simulations help overcome equipment limitations often faced in resource-
constrained educational settings. Singh-Pillay [42] emphasises that simulation-based learning
increases student engagement compared to traditional lecture methods. The ability to experiment
virtually allows learners to develop a deeper understanding of electrical principles through active
exploration.
Overall, the teachers displayed a range of PCK, leveraging various instructional strategies to
effectively teach the topic of electricity. This demonstrates a solid understanding of electrical to
select and implement the most appropriate teaching methods.
Impact of pedagogy
Promotes Conceptual Learning and Collaboration
Effective electricity teaching has evolved from traditional equation-driven methods to student-
centred approaches that promote conceptual understanding. Participants identified key
pedagogical strategies, including discussion, jigsaw, think-pair-share, practical demonstrations,
experiments, and project-based learning, essential for applying circuit laws to analyze electrical
systems.
Classroom observations revealed innovative teaching practices. P1 transformed learning by
presenting electricity as a narrative of human experience, guiding students to explore electrical
mysteries through inquiry-based learning. Students traced electron movement like detectives,
experiencing Ohm's law through conceptual mapping rather than memorization. P3 emphasized
demonstrations and hands-on activities, using torches to explore connections while addressing
student misconceptions through open discussions.
Research supports these pedagogical approaches. Edwards and Kumar [43] demonstrate that
dialogic teaching enables students to articulate understanding, challenge misconceptions, and
develop critical thinking skills through collaborative knowledge frameworks. The jigsaw method
creates student "experts" who teach peers specific concepts. Vives et al [44] found that this
approach fosters interdependence, enhances peer learning, and increases engagement with
complex circuit theory.
Think-pair-share methods significantly impact learning outcomes. Chen and Wong's [45] meta-
analysis revealed that this strategy reduces learning anxiety, promotes diverse perspectives,
supports introverted students, and enhances conceptual retention by approximately 40%.
Practical demonstrations bridge theoretical knowledge with the application, making abstract
electrical principles observable. Rodriguez et al. [46] showed that hands-on demonstrations
reduce cognitive distance between theory and practice, improve spatial understanding, boost
motivation, and provide contextual learning experiences.

40
These modern pedagogical approaches align with CAPS policy objectives [1] emphasizing the
interaction between values, attitudes, technology, society, and the environment. Contemporary
electricity teaching transcends circuits and equations, involving clear communication, concept
clarification, and active engagement where learners articulate thinking, question ideas, and
appreciate multiple viewpoints.
Promote Minds-on, Hands-on and Creativity Skills
Building on conceptual learning approaches, various pedagogical methods directly influence the
development of minds-on, hands-on, and creativity skills. The curriculum emphasizes scientific,
pedagogical methods, requiring teachers to guide students through hands-on experiences, mind-
on engagement, and process skills development [1].
Teachers employ diverse strategies to promote these skills. P1 utilizes simulations, while P2 and
P3 implement demonstrations, hands-on activities, projects, discussions, jigsaws, and think-pair-
share strategies. P2 designed practical tasks focusing on the effect of series-connected cells on
bulb brightness, developing learners' observation, comparing, measuring, hypothesizing,
investigating, and recording skills. During lessons, students worked in groups using voltmeters,
cells, LED bulbs, and conducting wires to explore electrical concepts through scientific
processes.
P3 emphasized problem-solving through paired work: "During my lesson (practical lessons), my
learners are forced to solve problems given to them while working in pairs. That improves their
problem-solving skills and stimulates creativity." P1 leveraged technology, incorporating PhET
simulations: "I give learners activities about electricity that will allow them to use PhET
simulations... it greatly fosters creativity in learners."
Research supports these pedagogical approaches. Thompson and Singh [36] demonstrate that
experimental approaches develop scientific inquiry skills, encourage hypothesis testing, provide
real-world problem-solving experiences, and increase conceptual understanding through active
exploration. Kim et al. [15] found that project-based learning fosters holistic understanding,
encourages interdisciplinary thinking, prepares students for real-world engineering challenges,
and promotes creativity in electrical system design.
These methods emphasize that learning is an active process in which students build knowledge
through experiences and social interactions, which is consistent with constructivist learning
theories [40, 41]. By breaking down difficult electrical ideas, establishing cognitive links between
theory and practice, and correcting misconceptions with focused interventions, teachers exhibit
in-depth subject matter expertise.
Through learner-centered tactics and inquiry-based learning, these transformative pedagogical
approaches offer a paradigm change from passive knowledge transmission to active,
collaborative learning experiences. They go beyond rote memory toward conceptual
understanding.
6. CONCLUSION
A comparison of research data reveals a clear nexus in teachers' pedagogical practices when
teaching electricity in Natural Sciences (NS) and Technology at the Grade 9 level. This
connection manifests through multiple teaching strategies, including chalk-and-talk, discussions,
demonstrations, hands-on activities, projects, and digital technologies such as simulations and
YouTube videos.

41
chalk-and-
talk/discussion
P1, P3, P5, P4, P2
demonstrations /
hands-on -
activities/projects/
use of digital
technology P2, P3,
P1, P4, P6
Intersection of pedagogies
in the NS and Tech Grade
9 classroom
Figure1: Pedagogical nexus
The nexus can be understood through the Topic-Specific Pedagogical Content Knowledge
(TSPCK) framework [ 28]. Teachers exhibit advanced TSPCK by transforming complex
electrical concepts into accessible learning experiences, demonstrating Mavhunga's[28]
definition of TSPCK as the capacity to convert subject-matter knowledge into pedagogically
sound forms.
This transformation occurs across three key TSPCK components:
Student Prior Knowledge
Teachers actively address learners' existing understandings and misconceptions through various
pedagogical strategies. P3's torch demonstrations exemplify how hands-on experiences link prior
knowledge with new concepts.
Curricular Saliency
Teachers demonstrate strategic decision-making through diverse teaching methods, employing
demonstrations, hands-on activities, discussions, and digital technologies appropriate for Grade 9
instruction.
Teaching Challenges
Teachers address inherent difficulties in electrical concepts through structured learning
experiences, using collaborative strategies like jigsaw and think-pair-share methods. Chen and
Wong [45] show that these methods increase conceptual retention by 40%. The pedagogical
nexus illustrates how TSPCK components interact during teaching [47]. Teachers integrate
strategies thoughtfully rather than using them in isolation, creating comprehensive learning
experiences. This approach reflects [48] assertion that PCK value is best understood within
specific topic contexts. The shift from traditional methods to active exploration demonstrates
sophisticated TSPCK, where teachers facilitate learning rather than merely provide information
[49]. Teachers create cognitive bridges between theory and practice through diverse pedagogical
strategies, fostering environments where students engage in meaningful scientific investigation
and problem-solving.

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7. RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the findings about the pedagogical nexus in teaching electricity at Grade 9 level, here
are key recommendations:
Develop Integrated Pedagogical Approaches
Teachers should consciously combine multiple teaching strategies rather than using them in
isolation. The research shows that integrating chalk-and-talk, demonstrations, hands-on activities,
and digital technologies creates more comprehensive learning experiences.
Strengthen TSPCK Development
Focus on developing all three components of Topic-Specific PCK - understanding student prior
knowledge, curricular saliency, and teaching challenges. This requires ongoing professional
development, specifically targeting electricity concepts and common student misconceptions.
Implement Collaborative Learning Strategies
Given the 40% increase in conceptual retention from methods like jigsaw and think-pair-share
(Chen & Wong, 2024), teachers should prioritize these collaborative approaches when teaching
complex electrical concepts.
Design Topic-Specific Training
Create professional development programs focused on electricity instruction that help teachers
transform theoretical TSPCK knowledge into practical classroom strategies.
Promote Reflective Practice
Encourage teachers to reflect on how their pedagogical choices address student misconceptions
and support conceptual understanding of electricity topics.
Support Pedagogical Flexibility
Curricula ought to be designed in a manner that permit teachers to use different teaching
methods as well as provide guidance on when and how to integrate different pedagogical
approaches .
Include Misconception Resources
Provide teachers with resources identifying common student misconceptions about electricity and
evidence-based strategies to address them.
Longitudinal Studies
Investigate the long-term impact of integrated pedagogical approaches on student understanding
and retention of electrical concepts.

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Cross-Curricular Connections
Explore how the pedagogical nexus between NS and Technology can be strengthened to enhance
student learning outcomes in both subjects.
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