Think BIG
This Science upd8 activity illustrates practical applications of classroom science in the context of using sustainable building materials, and highlights several related various career routes. Students become members of a consultancy firm which specialises in sustainable building projects. They have to use their knowledge of…
In the Limelight
This Science upd8 activity engages students in the practical applications of colour mixing used in stage set design. In the scenario students act as the expert making recommendations to an international awards show, the ‘The International Music Awards.’ This resource is based on the work of the British design agency,…
One of Our Scientists Is Missing
This Science upd8 activity offers an opportunity to test students' understanding of the solar system, and their skills as independent enquirers, problem solvers and effective communicators. Students are part of an earth-bound team set the task of interpreting a range of data relating to the solar system/universe. This team includes…
Polar Bears in Trouble
In this Science upd8 activity students take on the role of a trainee documentary producer working for an environmental channel. The television programme scenario, ‘Bears in Trouble’, explores how rising temperatures in the Arctic could be endangering the survival of polar bears. Polar bears seem perfectly adapted to the…
Death of an Angel
In this Science upd8 activity students take on the role of forensic science technicians who are acting as expert witnesses for the murder of Angel. Students analyse blood splatter patterns to check whether the murder weapon used was a hammer. They also watch a demonstration of a blood viscosity test to check whether the time of death…
Instant Ice-Cream
In this Science upd8 activity students take on the role of a marketeer trying to sell a new instant ice-cream vending machine. They use PowerPoint’s simple animation features and a gallery of images to explain the science behind the process of mixing flavour and quick freezing.
Accident and Emergency
In this Science upd8 activity students take on the role of a hospital Family Liaison Officer. They carry out research around cells, tissues and organs and then explain a patient's injuries using this knowledge. The activity can help to broaden students' ideas about careers in medicine.
The Mystery of the Levitating Train
In this Science upd8 activity students use their understanding of simple circuits, electricity and magnetism to diagnose and fix problems with the running of a magnetic train in a theme park.