Prior Learning
Prior learning activities enable students to value what they already know about a topic. While they establish what students already know, they also help the teacher to identify some of their misconceptions. Prior learning activities can be used as the start of the assessment process.
Tuning in
A tuning in activity helps students to define and focus on the issues they will be dealing with in the unit of work.
Snappy Science – Light up the room with your hair!- Snappy Science – Which colours are hotter?
- Snappy Science – Water power
- Snappy Science – Bend water with static electricity
- Snappy Science – Be a snake charmer
- Snappy Science – Static electricity can race
- Snappy Science – Make a compass
- Snappy Science – Make an electromagnet
- E is for Energy
Finding Out
Students will need to obtain more information about the issues they are going to investigate. They can identify questions of interest and research these either in small groups or on their own. Once information is gathered, it can be shared using chosen communication methods e.g. short presentations. Students can continue finding out by completing a range of investigations, including gathering data. They use appropriate methods to present and communicate what they have found out.
- Switch to Save – Lighting Audit – Foundation and Year 1 & 2
- Make a Solar Oven
- Electricity Tour
- Water Wheel
- Create an Energy Saving Alphabet
- What type of energy is best for your school?
- Wind Farming
- Turn it off
- What energy do you use at home and at school?
- All lit up!
- My class rules
- My home rules
- Let’s save energy
Drawing Conclusions
Students are provided with activities that help them further develop their ideas and opinions. T hey describe issues from different perspectives. They identify, examine and justify different points of view.
Considering Social Action
Students are given opportunities to apply their learning in real world situations, in the classroom, school, home or the local community.
Assessment and Reflection
Reflection time provides students with an opportunity to value what they have learnt and the learning processes in which they have been involved. Evaluation or assessment tasks during the unit of work will need to conclude.
