Understanding our world-NEW

A new 2-hour workshop which introduces students to the applications of Earth observation techniques and the work of experts in the field. In collaboration with researchers from the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, students will be introduced to a case study of two Earth observation projects – ENVSAT and SISTeR – showing how long-term measurements allow climate and environmental changes to be tracked on a global and regional scale. Students will plan and carry out their own investigations using research-grade equipment.

Available March 2012.                                    

Supported by the Science and Technology Facilities Council

Curriculum content: The environment, Earth and universe

How light works

Students will use specialist equipment to investigate laser mazes, phosphorescence and UV light. They will then be guided by our expert science communicators to plan and present their experience to the class using primary and secondary evidence. 

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Duration: 1 hour

Curriculum content: Energy, electricity and forces

The Earth & Universe

This practical workshop explores the ideas and models behind this inspiring area of science. Students will develop their enquiry skills by collecting and testing evidence in a range of engaging investigations. Lively hands-on demonstrations, Galilean and Newtonian telescopes and our animated globe give students a valuable insight into the nature and motions of Earth and other planets.  

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Duration: 1 hour

Curriculum content: The environment, Earth and universe

Solve it!

Students will get hands-on experience of a variety of forensic techniques, including fingerprinting, chromatography and hair analysis, and then use these skills to analyse evidence and solve a crime.

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Duration: 2 hours

Curriculum content: Chemical and material behaviour

DNA codebreakers

How much DNA do we share with a trout? In this introduction to DNA and genetics each student will extract and visualise their own DNA in a test tube. Students will learn simple lab techniques and safety while they explore some common genetic traits and find out why we are similar to our parents.

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Duration: 1 hour

Curriculum content: Organisms, behaviour and health

Creative chemistry

Chemistry isn’t all about acids and alkalis! In this colourful and illuminating workshop students will learn about the creative applications of chemistry, including making a glow stick in a beaker, creating coloured pigments and painting a glow in the dark picture.

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Duration: 1 hour

Curriculum content: Chemical and material behaviour