BNIS Science Week

BNIS Science Week has been an exciting one for children throughout the school. The curiosity and effort put into formulating conclusions across the 5 areas of scientific enquiry have palpable. Science week is a time for children to exercise and showcase their interest in Science. This year’s event did not disappoint! Here is a brief insight into what each Key Stage got up to...

In EYFS, the children investigated different concepts under electricity, water, sound and affect of temperature on ice cubes.

In Year 1, the children sought to investigate the absorbency of tissue paper. They also explored how different colours spread out.

In Year 2, their curiosity was all about understanding if all plants grew from seeds. They set out to investigate time taken for seeds to germinate. They also delved into researching how plants have adapted and are able to grow in different environments.

The Year 3 class chose to ask questions about mangrove adaptations, investigate the germination periods for different seeds, observe the changes in shadow lengths as the sun moves across the sky and use this data to create sundials. They also explored plants around their class, sorting them into flowering and non-flowering groups.

In Year 4, it was all about food. They sought to understand the effect of sugar on yeast, being curious about the increase in volume of gas produced with the increase in the amount of sugar. They also investigated how long it takes for bread to rise and classified foods based on their tastes.

Year 5 children undertook an engaging investigation to help a football team improve floodlighting for evening matches. Their objective was to identify the most efficient electrical conductor to enhance the brightness of the floodlights on the pitch. Guided by their teacher, they meticulously planned the investigation, clarifying variables and grasping concepts like conductivity and resistance.

Year 6 decided to go into space. They researched different parts of space, some living things that may be found in space - including bacteria! They extended this by investigating the best conditions for preserving foods (preventing mould). They also studied the relationship between the rocket sizes and the distance it travels.

In KS3, the children were asked if all body parts of human beings grow the same way as we get older. The children planned, measured and recorded data of willing participants across the school before carefully analysing it.

This inquiry led to unexpected revelations that called for further investigations. The children also chose and researched different inventors and inventions of their choice.

To top the week off, the children were lucky enough to listen to a presentation from a professional scientist, Dr Jenny Farmer! She told us all about the fun parts of being a scientist, from wading around in swamps measuring carbon to covering the walls of her house with data so that she can read it all. Thank you Dr Farmer!