This week, we celebrated British Science Week. The theme this year is Change and Adaptation—a fascinating focus that highlights how change is all around us and influences every area of STEM. On Monday, our Year 5 children took part in an exciting workshop led by staff and students from our local secondary school, TBSHS. Linking with the theme, the children explored our forest area to search for bugs and insects. Using a pictorial key, they identified the woodland minibeasts they discovered. Needless to say, the children were fully engaged and thoroughly enjoyed the activity!
As part of our cross-curricular learning for British Science Week, the children also explored electrical circuits in Design and Technology. Working in pairs, they followed instructions and diagrams to build a simple circuit. They were then challenged to apply their understanding of materials and conductivity to discuss about how a working switch could be created using split pins, a paperclip or a small piece of cardboard.
In English, we linked our learning to British Science Week by exploring the question: Should science be taught in primary schools? The children identified the key features of a balanced argument and took part in thoughtful discussions, considering both sides of the debate. They came up with a range of interesting and well-reasoned points, showcasing their ability to think critically and express their ideas clearly.
As a Rights Respecting School, we also explored the concept of rights and responsibilities in PSHE. The children looked at a series of statements and discussed whether each one represented a right—something to which every human is entitled—or not. They gained a deeper understanding that while all humans have rights, these come with responsibilities too. Together, they identified examples of both and reflected on how our actions can affect others and the world around us.