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For an exciting science lesson, children can work in small groups to design and build their own spacecraft using recyclable materials. Start by discussing the basic parts of a spacecraft, such as the body, wings, and control systems, and talk about the purpose of space exploration. Show pictures or videos of real spacecraft to inspire them.
Next, provide each group with a variety of recyclable materials like cardboard boxes, plastic bottles, aluminum foil, and paper rolls. Explain that their task is to use these materials to create a model spacecraft that could travel to space. Encourage them to be creative, thinking about what their spacecraft needs to carry and how it will stay strong in space.
As they build, guide them to problem-solve and think critically about their designs. They might consider how to make their spacecraft aerodynamic or how to create a sturdy structure. Once the spacecraft models are complete, each group can present their creation to the class, explaining the different features and how they used their materials.
This hands-on activity helps students learn about the basics of space exploration and engineering while encouraging teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving. Plus, using recyclable materials reinforces the importance of sustainability and reusing resourcesUsing on the ESERO 7 resource, I would base a hands-on STEM activity focused on animals in cold environments. Students can explore how these animals survive in freezing temperatures. They’ll start by learning about different adaptations like blubber, thick fur, and hibernation that help animals such as polar bears, seals, and penguins stay warm in icy conditions (science). To bring these concepts to life, students will conduct an experiment by simulating blubber using a plastic bag filled with fat/ vasoline. They’ll place their hands inside the “blubber” and dip them into ice-cold water to feel how this insulation helps protect animals from the cold (technology and engineering). After the experiment, students will measure and compare the time they can comfortably keep their hands in the water with and without the blubber (math). Following this, they can discuss how these adaptations are crucial for survival in harsh environments. This activity not only teaches students about animal adaptations in a detailed and engaging way, but it also allows them to experience the effects first-hand through a memorable, interactive experiment.
For a fun and educational lesson on space and aliens, I start by reading a story about space and aliens to spark their imagination – I have used Aliens love Underpants, The Smeds and the Smoos, and The Man on the Moon( A Day in the Life of Bob!) Then, I let children create their own alien artwork using various materials like playdough, clay or paint. Children write a piece about their alien to display with their artwork. We discuss what would happen if an alien came to visit our class for a day, what do we think they would need to know or be interested in? In science, we discuss the planets in our solar system and what conditions might support alien life, this reverts back and revises what we have learnt about the different planets. To include maths, the students will measure distances between planets using simple calculations. The opportunities for integration across subject areas is endless on such an interesting and fun topic!
A constellation display in the corridor is a lovley idea, it suits all ages and children will become very familiar with them seeing them on a regular basis
I would choose the activity set on the sun and shadows. There are so many different ways of exploring the sun and how it affects shadows. I like using chalk and working outside. We pick certain items in the yard that cast a shadow first thing in the morning and trace around them, I also draw the outline of one of the children. We come back out three more times during the day and trace the shadows of selected items in a different colour, the child must also stand on the same spot! Using the different coloured chalks really allows children to see how the shadows have moved.
Another lovely activity that ties in well here, is shadow drawing. The children select toys (ideally little figures e.g. dinosaurs, farm animals) and trace their shadows on to paper with pencil.
I also like to do an experiment about where do the stars go during the day from mysteryscience.com, a very simple and effective lesson.
The Sun Activities booklet is a lovely resource with some great ideas, I particularly like the idea of cooking outside!I also like this activity, have done plenty of work with shadows but haven’t ever made a sun dial – thanks!
Hi! I’m Pam, a teacher in a DEIS school who has had infants for 15 years but moved to 2nd class last year and will continue with 2nd next year. I picked this course as my own kids are crazy about science and space in particular and I wanted to wow them with some new facts! I always share the fact that the sun is actually a star with kids, it never fails to amaze!
My idea for an inquiry based activity starts with a discussion about what they know about space. They share their ideas about planets, stars, and the moon, and I record them on the board. Explain that they will become scientists exploring different aspects of space.
Studends get divided into small groups, and each group picks a space-related topic such as the phases of the moon, planets, or stars. Each group should come up with a question they want to answer, like “How do the phases of the moon change over a month?” or “What are the differences between the planets?” Provide materials like posters, markers, and books or websites for research.
Over time, students gather information, make observations, and record their findings in copies/journals. They can create visual aids, like drawings or models, to show what they have learned. I will encourage them to ask more questions and explore further.
At the end of the week, each group presents their findings to the class, discussing what they learned and how they answered their question. This activity makes learning about space fun and helps students develop critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills.Floating and sinking is also one of my favourite lessons! As you say, it’s an oldie, but a goodie! I like throwing in items to throw them such as a golf ball or a sponge! I taught infants for many years and didn’t think that 2nd class would enjoy it or get as much from the lesson, once it’s adapted suitably it’s great for all ages.
