Science methods classes are charged with teaching preservice teachers how to teach science (PCK); however, since the ability to teach science is limited by the depth of understanding about what is being taught (CK), there is a tension for science teacher educators to negotiate. In this study we explore the possibility of advancing preservice elementary science teachers CK through an authentic science investigation experience using instructional methods that should develop their PCK as well. Analysis of the data revealed that growth in preservice teachers’ CK was statistically significant for each of the four quarters. In addition, most participants who held misconceptions in the pre-assessment no longer demonstrated these in the post-assessment.
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