Science week – Year 5 and 6

In the Soanes Centre workshop, children engaged in hands-on activities that allowed them to explore various materials such as rocks, minerals, wood, plastic and metal. They learned about the origins of these materials, identifying professionals like zoologists, botanists and miners who work with these resources. The workshop also covered fuels, explaining the sources of gas and crude oil as well as where wax comes from—primarily from bees and paraffin derived from crude oil.

The children learned about the composition of bones which are made from calcium and other elements. They explored historical materials like flint used during the Stone Age for tools such as bows and arrows. Through sensory experiences, they even smelled different substances.

The workshop emphasised scientific inquiry, encouraging children to think critically about why certain materials behave the way they do. They discovered that rubber is lighter than plastic and observed the properties of different materials, noting that while some are soft, a plastic golf ball is not.

They acted as chemists, using wood as fuel in chemical reactions that produced carbon dioxide and gas bubbles. The children made predictions, observed the evidence of gas production and learned about states of matter, including solids, liquids and gases. They discussed the significance of nitrogen in the atmosphere and other gases like hydrogen, helium and methane.

The impact of this workshop on the children was profound. They developed a deeper understanding of materials and their properties, engaged in scientific reasoning and fostered a sense of curiosity and exploration. This hands-on learning experience not only enhanced their knowledge of science but also encouraged teamwork and communication as they shared observations and findings. Overall, the workshop instilled a love for science and an appreciation for the materials that surround them.