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Research Question:
How do different surfaces (tarmac, concrete and grass) heat up during the day?
This research question allows pupils to investigate how different materials absorb and retain heat, helping them understand the relationship between land surfaces and climate. Group work and a collaborative approach is important to me so I would encourage pupils to make predictions before collecting temperature readings from different areas around the school at regular intervals throughout the day. Working in groups, pupils could record their data, create graphs, and discuss the reasons for any differences they observe.
This investigation promotes active learning by encouraging pupils to explore their own environment while developing scientific inquiry skills. It also provides opportunities to integrate mathematics through measuring, recording, and analysing data, and technology by using digital thermometers or tablets to record results. After analysing the findings, pupils could discuss how planting more trees or increasing green spaces might help reduce heat around the school. By participating in a hands-on investigation with real-world relevance, pupils develop curiosity, critical thinking, and a greater awareness of how climate change can affect their local environment.I like the way you chose an issue which is relevant to everyday school life. This makes it a lot for meaningful for students and staff alike where they can see the practical benefits/effects on a daily basis.
I totally agree that it would really benefit a classroom discussion and allows us as teachers to give our students a voice
ISS – The ISS is an orbiting research centre where astronauts carry out scientific investigations in areas such as biology, physics, medicine, and space exploration. It also helps researchers study the effects of living in space for extended periods.
Sentinel-2A – This satellite observes forests, farmland, rivers, and coastlines. It supplies important information for environmental protection, agriculture, and monitoring natural hazards.
Sentinel-3A – This satellite gathers data on sea surface temperatures, ocean conditions, land temperatures, and polar ice. Its observations support climate research and improve weather prediction.
NOAA-20 (JPSS-1) – This weather-monitoring satellite records atmospheric and environmental information to enhance forecasting, monitor severe weather events, and study climate trends.
Starlink Satellite – Operated by SpaceX, these communication satellites deliver high-speed internet services, particularly to rural and remote communities. Looking at these satellites and the work which they do has given me a more appreciative outlook on their roles and what they do for us in modern life.I agree that this would offer teachers a chance to engage with cross-curricular themes, and I love teaching through a thematic approach as much as possible
I also like this idea of giving ownership to the class where each child knows the practical commitment they are making
The video her ‘Home’ is a powerful documentary full of ideas to get students (and teachers!) thinking about the links between the Earth’s ecosystems and the impact of human activity on the environment. Through striking aerial photography and compelling narration, it demonstrates how natural resources, biodiversity, and climate are closely linked. The film emphasises the consequences of deforestation, pollution, overconsumption, and the increasing concentration of greenhouse gases, while also presenting examples of positive environmental action and sustainable solutions. Rather than focusing solely on environmental problems, it encourages us to recognise that collective action can make a meaningful difference.The videos including the Pax video are particularly effective because they appeal to different young learners with different learning styles. Visual learners benefit from the imagery and animations, while the narration helps explain complex concepts in an understandable way. I will definitely be using this in my classroom to provoke some debate and help to give each child a platform to voice their opinions linked regarding how we behave and the impact it has.
I think this is a very good idea to watch the video gradually in order to break each idea and concept down properly rather than overwhelming a child by giving too much information at once.
I like this idea too as linking it to the wider school environment gives students an insight into how something like this can help us in everyday life in a practical manner.
Activity 3 gives us an engaging introduction to the greenhouse effect and climate change. The Paxi video explained the concept of greenhouse gases in a way that is concise, simple, age-appropriate, and visually engaging. The use of animation and simple language makes it accessible for primary pupils while still introducing important scientific vocabulary such as greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide, and global warming.The future temperature prediction tool helped to emphasise the ideas presented in the video. It allowed learners to explore how changes in greenhouse gas emissions can affect global temperatures over time. Rather than simply learning facts, pupils can investigate different scenarios and observe the potential long-term impacts of human actions. This inquiry-based approach encourages critical thinking and helps pupils understand that scientific models can be used to make predictions about future climate change.
I would use this activity with my class to help give each student a voice as part of a wider STEM unit on weather, climate, and sustainability. I would begin by showing the Paxi video as a whole-class introduction before discussing pupils’ prior knowledge of climate change. Pupils could then work in pairs using the prediction tool to investigate different emission scenarios and record their observations.Activity 1: Is it Weather or Climate?
This task provides an excellent introduction to distinguishing between weather and climate. The sorting task encourages pupils to think critically about the characteristics of each concept rather than simply learning words they do not understand. It also gives each person a voice as pupils justify why they have categorised each statement as weather or climate. I would improve it by linking in photos of the local area to make it more meaningful for the pupils.
Activity 2: Weather Detectives
Pupils investigate weather data in a realistic context. It encourages observation, interpretation of information, and evidence-based conclusions. The activity also integrates mathematics through reading temperatures and interpreting weather demonstrating a clear STEM connection. I would improve it by using a physical weather calendar which we could interact with over the period of two weeks to enhance active learning in the class.