Science Passport

This resource published by ASE provides a template for successful bridging activities in the transition between primary and secondary schools. Science Passport offers a choice of investigations and structured follow-ups relevant to school science. The adapted version has been created using a larger format, with clearer language and including pictures.

The different versions of the Science Passport can be printed out and photocopied for students to write on. Students record personal details in their Science Passport, collecting 'visas' (or 'licences') awarded by the teacher to mark achievement in scientific skills. Investigations started in primary school are completed at secondary school.

The investigations are:

• Looking at habitats and adaptations: the amount of fieldwork required is flexible and options for studying different habitats mean that school geography is not a barrier. Communication, group work and literacy are highlighted at different points in the activity.

• Solutions: this uses dissolving jelly as a focus for developing investigative and practical skills, including prediction, analysis and evaluation.

• Golden ratio: focusing on their faces, students collect variation data that draws them into the world of the ancient Greek Golden Ratio. Numeracy is highlighted in the calculation of simple ratios. Care and sensitivity needs to be taken in managing the investigation as it involves considerations of what makes a face attractive. This is done in an objective and sensitive way, but some Year Six students are becoming particularly aware of their own looks.

Pages of the adapted passport version can be printed out and used independently or put together to form a booklet. This may be more suitable to use with some groups, since it provides more space for written answers, with a simpler layout and less demanding language.

The original 'passport' pages need to be printed out back-to-back and photocopied for each student. Sheets of 'visa' stamps should be printed out and cut and pasted into the passports. Alternatively they could be printed out onto sticky labels. Teachers choose their own criteria for awarding 'visas' for achievement.

• URL: http://stem.org.uk/rx3go