CIEC Promoting Science

A story book provides the stimulus for activities involving sorting and separating of materials. Children are guided through a problem-solving approach to separating mixtures, such as, marbles and Lego bricks, paper-clips and stamps, rice and sand. They are then given the open ended task of cleaning a sample of water containing stones, leaves, soil etc.

A sports company wish to provide a turf surface at a sports ground suitable for a range of activities. Information is required on suitable grass types and the best growing conditions. They also need to apply for a water abstraction license, know how much water will be needed, and what effect soil type has on water absorption. By investigating various conditions of plant growth the children discover which will produce the best crop.

By following a 'water cycle' from a reservoir, through an industrial site where it is treated, used as cooling water, and treated again before being returned to a river, the children investigate corrosion of materials, filtration techniques, heat exchange and carry out an extension activity on pH adjustment to regulate the acidity of the water.

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