This academic year, the inaugural Science Blast will take place and equip up to 13,000 primary school students with the fundamental skills of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) at a crucially early point in their academic lives.
Science Blast involves an entire class investigating the science behind a straight-forward question and conducting simple experiments with items commonly found in schools or homes, before displaying their findings at an exhibition in one of three venues. Typical investigations include: ‘How can we make the best slime?’ ‘Why does cake go hard but biscuits go soft?’ ‘Can cows’ eyes be blue?’ and ‘Can I charge my mobile device with a fruit?’
How to get started?
Firstly, think of a simple question with your class, something that they can investigate by predicting, measuring, counting or observing. Students will then investigate their question, using core STEM skills, and teachers can use the Science Blast Investigation Framework to help structure class investigations.
Participating classes will then be invited to display their work and present their findings at one of the 2019 ESB Science Blast showcase events: Dublin (March 6th-7th), Limerick (May 22nd-24th) and Belfast (June 5th-6th).
To participate you’ll need to submit your class question by November 30th to participate in the showcase event in Dublin and you’ll receive confirmation of your class place by December 14th.
A second deadline of February 27th is operating for the Limerick and Belfast showcase events only with confirmation of places by March 13th.
Register your class now or visit the Science Blast homepage for more information…
The Science Blast programme is developed and delivered by the RDS. It is funded by the RDS, ESB, Naughton Foundation, Science Foundation Ireland, Irish American Partnership, Limerick City and County Council, Devenish Nutrition, Citi, Dublin City Council, Irish Aid, Kainos, Northern Trust and supported by Mary Immaculate College, ICC Belfast, Belfast City Council, CCEA, W5, C2K, AmmA Centre and Nerve Centre.