Current Topics in Science
Topics covered this semester include:
Year 7
Plant and animal cells, specialized cells, microscopy, materials and their structure, the periodic table, states of matter, Forces and energy, gravity, weight and mass, Solar system, tides and energy.
We‘re excited to see their curiosity grow as they conduct experiments, make observatiorns, and lean about the science behind everyday reactions.
Lab Experiments and Activities
We explored the fascinating world of microscopy! Using microscopes, students observed onion epidermal cells and learned how to prepare slides, focusing on the details of cell structures and making scientific drawings.
What We Did
ØSlide Preparation: Students prepared slides using onion cells and practiced focusing techniques.
ØViewing Cell Types: We used different magnification levels to observe onion cells giving students a close-up view of onion cells.
ØMicroscope Handling: This experiment helped students develop confidence in adjusting focus and magnification settings, which are crucial for microscopy.
Key Takeaways: Observation Skills: Students noted variations in cell shape, size, and structure, gaining hands-on experience in scientific observation.
Year 9
Photosynthesis, the Carbon cycle, climate change, atomic structure and the periodic table, trends in groups with the periodic table, forces and energy, density, conservation of energy, heat and temperature.
Science lessons have been delivered by use of creative teaching methods which have significantly enhanced student engagement and comprehension, particularly by fostering interactivity, autonomy, and technological integration. Here’s how they impact students:
ØAutonomy-Supported Teaching: Students were given research work to explore on climate change. This allowed students to exercise choice and have a voice in their learning journey especially in the method of presentation which has shown to improve engagement, curiosity, and understanding. These techniques help students feel more connected to the material, thus improving comprehension.
ØTechnology Integration: Incorporating technology through tools like kahoot and quizzes during lesson introduction and conclusion and other digital resources such as sizzle and gauth not only keeps students engaged but also helps them grasp complex concepts more effectively.
ØGreatest achievement: Some students stood out in drawing and describing the atomic structure and supported other students who were struggling to understand.
Year 10
Cell structure, Characteristics of living things, Microscope and Magnification, Movement in and out of cells, Diffusion and Osmosis, Biological molecules, Enzymes, Planet Earth, The atmosphere, Water treatment
Laboratory experiment
In our latest science experiment, students explored the fascinating world of food testing. This activity introduced them to various techniques used to identify nutrients in everyday foods.
Key Tests Performed
1.Starch Test – Students added iodine solution to food samples to check for the presence of starch.
2.Benedict’s Test for Sugars – By adding Benedict's solution to food samples and heating them, students could identify reducing sugars based on color.
3.Biuret Test for Proteins – This test involved adding Biuret solution to detect proteins.
4.Emulsion Test for Lipids – To check for fats, students mixed samples with ethanol and water.
Learning Outcomes
ØNutrient Identification: Students gained hands-on experience identifying carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in foods.
ØLab Skills: They practiced careful measurement, observation, and safety techniques in a lab setting
Year 11
Transport in plants and animals, the circulatory system, Respiration and gaseous exchange, Coordination and response, Chemical reactions, chemical equations, types of chemical reactions, redox reactions, electrolysis, light, reflection and refraction properties of waves, spectra, electromagnetic waves, electrical charge, electrical quantities.
Science experiment on electric circuits.
We embarked on an exciting hands-on experiment to learn about electric circuits! The activity introduced students to fundamental concepts such as the flow of current, conservation of energy, and the properties of series and parallel circuits.
Highlights of the Experiment
1.Basic Circuit Setup: Students learned how to set up a simple circuit using a battery, wires, and a small light bulb. They observed how electricity flows through a closed circuit to light the bulb, making the concept of current flow come to life.
2.Series and Parallel Circuits: By creating both series and parallel circuits, students observed how current behaves differently in each.
3.Testing Conductors and Insulators: The students experimented with different materials to determine which allowed current to pass through (conductors) and which blocked it (insulators)
Learning Outcomes
ØHands-On Application: Students applied theoretical knowledge, constructing circuits and observing results directly.
ØCritical Thinking: By comparing different circuit types, they gained insights into real-world applications of electrical systems.
Thank you for supporting our young scientists in their learning journey! Stay tuned for more updates from the science lab.
