Year 6 - Science
RSPB Bioblitz
Y6 were visited by two members of the RSPB recently to carry out a Bioblitz of the school grounds. They used classification keys to identify the types of animals and plants present in our school environment. They used binoculars to look for birds, such as those nesing in the church roof, and magnifying cases to study the creatures they found in more detail.
Young Scientist of the Year Award
Nicholas in Year 6 was at the University of Nottingham recently to pick up his award as young scientist of the year. Recognised for his great general knowledge of the natural world and natural curiosity, Nicholas attended the event with his mum and brother where they were able to explore a range of interactive science activities before receiving a certificate for his efforts. Well done Nicholas!
How Can We Reduce Pollution?
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Year 6 explored what happens to waste after it is taken from our homes and the impact this has on the environment and climate. After exploring the use and impact of fossil fuels, we investigated renewable energies- thinking about their pros and cons. We then built our own solar powered car and tested it outside! Unfortunately, due to our cloudy British summer time we had to test the car using torches. Raphael, Michal and Mossino’s solar car had the best design (using smaller wheels that were spaced further apart) as it travelled at the fastest speed. |
The British Geology Survey Centre
Year 5 and 6 visited the British Geology Survey Centre in Keyworth to learn more about rocks and fossils.
The children discovered how often we use rocks in our everyday lives and were surprised by the multitude of uses they have including: toothpaste, the coating on non-stick frying pans, bath products and even lipstick! They took part in some exciting workshops, exploring some of the world’s earthquakes. We also had the opportunity to compete to create the strongest seismic waves measured by a seismometer, pan for gold, hold meteorites and enormous dinosaur fossils. |
Our final activity was to enter the Geology Centre tardis where we travelled back in time to the beginning of the earth and watched as the world and it’s creatures evolved.
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Making Periscopes
As part of our topic on ‘light’, we worked in teams to create periscopes. We had to consider how many mirrors would be needed and the angles of these mirrors. We used the ‘law of reflection’, to help us to think about this.
Electricity
We experimented with the electricity equipment, working together to try to achieve a number of challenges.
For example, making the bulb brighter or the motor turn faster or creating our own switch.
We also learnt about the meaning of voltage and why it is important to know the voltage required by different components in a circuit.
Inflataverse
Year 6 were privileged to work with some Physics students from the University of Nottingham this week.
We all went into the ‘Inflataverse’ where we were able to: experience what the night sky looks like without any pollution; get a closer look at constellations and hear lots of the myths and stories behind the constellations. We had the opportunity to ask lots of interesting questions about planets through to supernovas and even got to hold a meteor! |
‘It was a once in a lifetime experience!’ – Molly ‘It was amazing to experience what the star constellations actually look like.’ – Vincenzo ‘It was really cool because in the city you can’t really see many stars and since then, I’ve been looking closely when I’m in the countryside or city and comparing what I can see in the sky.’ |