Transition science: Explorative Quest – evidence gathering using handheld technology to investigate big scientific questions

Project Summary

Explorative science boxes, called ‘Explorative Quest Boxes’ will be developed to be used in primary school to enhance teaching and learning and enthuse young scientists and staff with exciting ‘hands on’ investigative approaches to science.  Young scientists will develop and carry out their own research and collect their own independent evidence using the latest handheld technology that enables students to visualise and explore patterns and relationships in real time.  This project will include training for teachers in using handheld technology as part of their curriculum plans to deliver ‘How Science Works’ in a practical context.

Aims

Aims and outcomes of the project: These build on the current project.

The project aims to give young scientists the opportunity to be excited about science and explore ideas by doing practical using the latest handheld technology; enhance teaching and learning by interesting, engaging and enthusing both young scientists and teachers alike plus also achieving a seamless transition from primary to secondary phase.

Outcomes:

• Strong collaborative links forged between science staff of secondary school and primary staff.  (Also links to ITT providers involving PGCE and GTP students).  Maths included.
• Innovative kit boxes developed for use in primary school– everything needed to set up and carry out successful scientific investigations, novel contexts in biology, chemistry and physics and linked to the curriculum.  (Includes a teacher guide, student sheets/booklet as well as equipment).  Extended to maths.
• Teachers trained and confident in using handheld technology and in supporting young scientists using the equipment to collect data and in delivery of scientific and mathematical approaches to investigations in line with and as part of their curriculum plans to deliver ‘How Science Works’ in a practical context.  Sustainability due to quality training, support and confidence building.  Teachers will buddy up to share practice and support each other and so build sustainability.
• Students and staff enthused and enjoying new innovative scientific approaches.  Linked to maths.
• Smooth transition from primary to secondary school with stage one completed in primary school and stage two of the science project completed during the first few weeks of arrival and with further planned progression to keep up the momentum of interest in science as students advance through KS3.
• Clear progression with simple tracking of progress using APP; giving teachers the incentive and easy means to assess key modern scientific and mathematical skills.

Model evaluated and improved and expanded to include other feeder schools and shared with other school clusters.