Gifted & Talented Science Masterclass

A hair-raising morning of static electricity, forensics and mini-beasts...

In March 2010 twenty-four Year 7 students were invited, with their parents, to come and join the Science department for the morning.  Mr Smith started off by trying to make their hair stand on end with the help of the Van De Graaff machine. It is amazing how many students liked giving their parents electric shocks!!!

Then the students carried on with the static electricity theme by trying to race coke cans with the help of a nylon rod.  After much rubbing on their parent's hair the nylon rod was placed next to the can and it made it move. 

Then half of the group went with Dr Maunder and carried out forensic test on samples of liquids.  Tests carried out included checking for Ph and if sugar was present.  Dr Maunder also demonstrated blowing the top of a Pringles canister with gas.  He also showed students his many scientific toys.

In Mr Smith's room students looked at mini-beasts from the pond.  Under the microscope a tiny water flea looks like a ferocious creature from the deep.  Newts, worm and some creatures that could not be identified were found.  Again parents seemed to enjoy this as much as the students.

After a short coffee break the group swapped rooms and started all over again.  Sadly the two hours went very quickly and it was soon time to say goodbye and put all the equipment away. Everyone commented on what a great time they had.