Science and Nature Lessons
In Rathdonnell NS, we try to foster positive attitudes to science and to develop an appreciation of its relevance in today's world. We want our science lessons to promote curiosity and enjoyment so that the children are encouraged to cultivate a lasting interest in science. Practical investigation is central to scientific activity and to the development of a broad range of enquiry skills. Active and hands-on learning is valued in our school and the children are fortunate to have plenty of opportunities to explore and learn in a practical way.
Nature Northwest
We had a very interesting visit from Aengus from Nature Northwest. Pupils learnt all about the river Lennon and undertook a project to investigate the water quality along the river. Pupils visited three sites along the river in order to establish the quality of the water along the river. We predicted that they water quality might deteriorate slightly along the course of the river as more human activities influence the water as it flows downstream. We learnt that certain insects will only tolerate very good quality water with so we were pleased to find some of these species at the first site of the river! We found less of these further downstream at site 2 and none at site 3. From this we concluded that the water quality gets poorer further downstream. We will know look at ways to help improve the water quality of the river Lennon.
Asteroid Launcher!
Another good lesson from the Armagh Planetarium Book of Experiments.
Rockets in space are fascinating. We made our own asteroid launchers- essentially a type of catapult or slingshot. The rubber band stores the energy- pulling it back, then releasing the "missile"! Great fun!
Rockets in space are fascinating. We made our own asteroid launchers- essentially a type of catapult or slingshot. The rubber band stores the energy- pulling it back, then releasing the "missile"! Great fun!
Make a Gyroscope
Spiral galaxies, like our Milky Way, are made up of millions and billions of stars held together by gravity. We made these very clever gyroscopes, learning about centrifugal forces also.
When you spin your top, the bottom part lifts, and the paper strips twist around. The reason the bottom part lifts is because spinning things which are not fully attached to the middle want to fly outwards because of the forces that act on them.
We recently were sent this copy of "Big Book of Experiments" from the Armagh Planetarium and it is full of brilliant lessons!
When you spin your top, the bottom part lifts, and the paper strips twist around. The reason the bottom part lifts is because spinning things which are not fully attached to the middle want to fly outwards because of the forces that act on them.
We recently were sent this copy of "Big Book of Experiments" from the Armagh Planetarium and it is full of brilliant lessons!
Design a Boat
Water pushes upwards with a force called ‘upthrust’. (You can feel this if you try to push a light object such as a balloon or aeroboard under water). The shape of a ‘boat’ affects the weight (passengers/cargo) it can hold. The more water that the boat displaces the more it will float and therefore the more weight it can take.
Pupils were each given the same amount of 'márla' or plasticine. We discussed the idea of a fair test. The challenge was to design a boat, then test the efficiency of the boat by adding 'cargo' or marbles.
Good thinking and creative skills evident with children talking and thinking about how they could modify or improve their designs.
Pupils were each given the same amount of 'márla' or plasticine. We discussed the idea of a fair test. The challenge was to design a boat, then test the efficiency of the boat by adding 'cargo' or marbles.
Good thinking and creative skills evident with children talking and thinking about how they could modify or improve their designs.
Dancing Raisins Lesson
Another popular lesson from Discovery Primary Science and Maths.
The raisins are heavier than the drink so they sink to the bottom.At the bottom of the fizzy drink they collect bubbles of carbon dioxide and now the ‘raisins +bubbles’ are lighter than the drink so they rise to the surface.
When they reach the surface the gas bubbles burst and the raisins sink; then they collect more gas bubbles etc.
This will continue as long as the drink is quite fizzy.
The raisins are heavier than the drink so they sink to the bottom.At the bottom of the fizzy drink they collect bubbles of carbon dioxide and now the ‘raisins +bubbles’ are lighter than the drink so they rise to the surface.
When they reach the surface the gas bubbles burst and the raisins sink; then they collect more gas bubbles etc.
This will continue as long as the drink is quite fizzy.
Junior Room Nature Walk
As we have been having such beautiful weather lately, the Junior Room decided to go on a Nature Walk. We had such a lovely time! The sun shone and everyone was in good form. We were amazed at what we found so close to our school. We saw frog spawn, daisies, dandelions, primroses and daffodils. We also got to feel the buds on the trees and it really reminded us that Spring was on its way!!
The Science of Bubbles!
There's a lot to learn about bubbles. They are always spherical in shape. Bubbles are useful for packaging and we thought about how we could devise a science experiment to test how effective bubble wrap is.
Then we made our own bubble solution. Maths integrated well into this lesson- weighing 100g of cornflour, measuring 1.2 litres of water, 20mls glycerine and so on.
Pupils made their own wands and were able to blow some large bubbles.
We observed that bubbles can be both fragile and strong!
See photos below.
Then we made our own bubble solution. Maths integrated well into this lesson- weighing 100g of cornflour, measuring 1.2 litres of water, 20mls glycerine and so on.
Pupils made their own wands and were able to blow some large bubbles.
We observed that bubbles can be both fragile and strong!
See photos below.
Geology- the study of rocks
Today in class we investigated rocks. Some are harder than others. We were able to see how some rocks crumbled when cut or "sawed" with a knife. We saw the shiny mica in the schist sample. Other samples we observed and handled were limestone, basalt, sandstone, granite, mudstone and quartzite.
The acid in vinegar reacted with the carbon in the limestone to make a 'fizz'.
Pumice is volcanic and full of air holes so it floats in water!
The acid in vinegar reacted with the carbon in the limestone to make a 'fizz'.
Pumice is volcanic and full of air holes so it floats in water!
Does temperature affect the bounce of a tennis ball?
A tennis ball is a hollow rubber core that contains pressurized air within it. When it falls to the ground, the air within the ball expands and this causes the ball to bounce back. Changing the temperature of the ball affects the pressure of the air inside the ball and, in turn, the height to which it bounces.
In this experiment, the children had to measure the difference between the height of the bounce of a tennis ball at normal temperature and one which had been cooled in the fridge.
This interesting science lesson with Mr Kee studied the effect of temperature on bounce. Plenty of scope for integrating maths too.
In this experiment, the children had to measure the difference between the height of the bounce of a tennis ball at normal temperature and one which had been cooled in the fridge.
This interesting science lesson with Mr Kee studied the effect of temperature on bounce. Plenty of scope for integrating maths too.
Investigating Plastics
Modern plastic is a manufactured product which does not occur naturally on its own.
Children were encouraged to think and respond to the trigger questions
eg Where do you think the plastic we use today comes from?
Is it natural or is it man-made?
Can you think of reasons why plastic is so popular?
Would you like to wear plastic socks?
Can you name any different kinds of plastic?
Polythene, polystyrene, PVC, PVA glue, polyester etc.
Then we made the milk curdle by adding vinegar. A chemical reaction occurs when the acid in the vinegar reacts with the caesin protein in the milk causing the milk to curdle and to separate out into blobs. The liquid is called 'whey' and the solid blobs are called 'curds'.
Early plastics were made in this way. Old buttons were made using caesin. Bakelite was an early plastic.
Children were encouraged to think and respond to the trigger questions
eg Where do you think the plastic we use today comes from?
Is it natural or is it man-made?
Can you think of reasons why plastic is so popular?
Would you like to wear plastic socks?
Can you name any different kinds of plastic?
Polythene, polystyrene, PVC, PVA glue, polyester etc.
Then we made the milk curdle by adding vinegar. A chemical reaction occurs when the acid in the vinegar reacts with the caesin protein in the milk causing the milk to curdle and to separate out into blobs. The liquid is called 'whey' and the solid blobs are called 'curds'.
Early plastics were made in this way. Old buttons were made using caesin. Bakelite was an early plastic.
How sound Travels
We have been looking at how sound travels and how we hear sounds. We have learnt that sounds vibrate and hit particles in the air and makes waves. These vibrations hit our drums and make it vibrate which sends a message to our brains that a sound has been heard. Fascinating!
In order to demonstrate how these vibrations travel, we connected two yoghurt pots with string. When we spoke into one pot, we could hear and feel the vibrations travelling through the string.
In order to demonstrate how these vibrations travel, we connected two yoghurt pots with string. When we spoke into one pot, we could hear and feel the vibrations travelling through the string.
Static Electricity
When you rub some objects, they gain electricity. This electricity stays in the one place so it is called "static electricity". The charged pieces of paper are attracted to the balloon so they appear to jump up to the balloon. The same happened with sugar. We were able to bend water. The balloon charge repelled the water.
Dancing Raisins
Marshmallow playdough
Colour Wheels
Investigating Pneumatics- Air Power
Junior Room Nature Walk 14.10.21
The Junior Room spent a lovely hour today going on a Nature Walk. Before we left for our walk, we familiarised ourselves with some trees and their leaves. We were on a hunt for some nice orange, red and brown Autumn leaves. We plan to use them for an art project. We collected plenty!
Friction, Motion and Investigating Slopes
Friction is a force that tries to stop things sliding over each other. There is more friction between rough surfaces than between smooth surfaces.
It has its good points and bad points. Friction is needed for gripping things, e.g. a goalkeeper’s gloves.
Pupils tested their runners for grip, sliding them down a slope. We used a protractor to measure the angle.
We observed how ball-bearings work by using marbles.
We learnt about Newton's Law of Motion and then made a marble run.
It has its good points and bad points. Friction is needed for gripping things, e.g. a goalkeeper’s gloves.
Pupils tested their runners for grip, sliding them down a slope. We used a protractor to measure the angle.
We observed how ball-bearings work by using marbles.
We learnt about Newton's Law of Motion and then made a marble run.
Amazing Triangles
The triangle is a strong shape and is used to support structures. Under a heavy load, a square distorts easily – it ends up looking like a parallelogram. If you put a brace diagonally across the square, you create two triangles and a much stronger shape. In fact, the triangle is the only shape that cannot be deformed without changing the length of one of its sides. Because it is not easily deformed, the triangle is an extremely popular building shape. Using newspaper, we made little paper dowels and used masking tape to build our structures.
Materials at School
We have been looking at all aspects of school life during our SESE lessons. We have been learning all about different materials that can be found at school, such as pencils, jumpers, hats, lunchboxes etc. We discussed what each item was made of. We carried out an experiment to determine which materials were soft and which were hard. We did this by touching all the materials with our hands and considering if they were hard or soft. While we could predict the outcome easily, it was good to get to grips with the idea of carrying out an experiment and writing it up.
Sounds - Muffling Sounds
The Junior Room carried out an experiment to find the best material for muffling sound. We found that some materials are more effective than others! We found that a soft, absorbent material was the best for muffling sound. By clapping beside our partner's ears, we discovered that we could not hear as well when we had cotton wool in our ears.
Make a Catapult
Today we made catapults. We thought about stored energy. Elastic materials store energy when they are stretched, and release the energy when the force is removed. So energy is stored in stretched rubber bands (this is the energy which you have put into it to stretch it). This energy is released when the rubber band is let go and it goes back to its original size.
Making our catapults involved thinking, designing and evaluating and finally, modifying the finished product.
We made missiles and launch pads and thought about how the design of the arm is very important.
Making our catapults involved thinking, designing and evaluating and finally, modifying the finished product.
We made missiles and launch pads and thought about how the design of the arm is very important.
Wildflower nature study
Living things- investigating flowers. We can identify the flame-coloured Montbretia and also the Devil's Bit Scabious. Have a look at some of the work.
Form a gas
In this enjoyable experiment, the pupils discovered that when vinegar and sodium bicarbonate combine, they react to form a gas-carbon dioxide.
Physics- working with pulleys
Another good lesson from Discover Primary Science.
Background information
A pulley is a simple machine which is useful for lifting things. It reduces the effort required to raise a load. It consists of a wheel with a groove
through which a string or rope runs. The rope has a load on one end and someone or something pulling at the other end.
A simple fixed pulley is one which enables you to pull down while the load goes up (e.g. a pulley on
top of a flagpole for hoisting a flag to a height). It requires the same force, but it is easier to pull down (i.e. in the same direction as gravity) than to pull up.
Background information
A pulley is a simple machine which is useful for lifting things. It reduces the effort required to raise a load. It consists of a wheel with a groove
through which a string or rope runs. The rope has a load on one end and someone or something pulling at the other end.
A simple fixed pulley is one which enables you to pull down while the load goes up (e.g. a pulley on
top of a flagpole for hoisting a flag to a height). It requires the same force, but it is easier to pull down (i.e. in the same direction as gravity) than to pull up.
Field work
One of the lovely things about the summer term is being able to go outside for outdoor lessons. We investigated the wild flowers growing nearby. Pupils used hoops instead of quadrants; identifying and counting all the flowers and plants inside the circle. We used flower guides and identification cards to help us in our work.
Pond dipping
This group was recently dispatched to complete "Operation Tadpole". Frogs are a protected species although schools are allowed to collect tadpoles and frogspawn for nature study purposes. We spotted diving beetles, whirligig beetles and caddis fly larvae also. We will keep a careful eye on the aquarium and eventually will return the tadpoles as froglets to their home pond.
Levers
This week in science we have been learning about levers.
Levers help make work easier. Some language associated with levers : force, pivot, load, fulcrum, counter balance and effort.
We looked at the everyday use of levers, as well as the push and pull forces associated with them. The children then created their own levers, using a dog as an example. When a ‘pull’ force is exerted the dog’s tongue will come out and when a ‘push’ force is applied, the tongue will go back in.
Levers help make work easier. Some language associated with levers : force, pivot, load, fulcrum, counter balance and effort.
We looked at the everyday use of levers, as well as the push and pull forces associated with them. The children then created their own levers, using a dog as an example. When a ‘pull’ force is exerted the dog’s tongue will come out and when a ‘push’ force is applied, the tongue will go back in.
An incredible experiment!
Look how we were able to push a skewer through a balloon! How does this work?
The secret is to use the portion of the balloon where the rubber molecules are under the least amount of stress or strain. If you could see the rubber that makes up a balloon on a microscopic level, you would see many long strands or chains of molecules. These long strands of molecules are called polymers, and the elasticity of these polymer chains causes rubber to stretch. Blowing up the balloon stretches these strands of polymer chains. We gently pushed the skewer through the rubber at the densest part.
The secret is to use the portion of the balloon where the rubber molecules are under the least amount of stress or strain. If you could see the rubber that makes up a balloon on a microscopic level, you would see many long strands or chains of molecules. These long strands of molecules are called polymers, and the elasticity of these polymer chains causes rubber to stretch. Blowing up the balloon stretches these strands of polymer chains. We gently pushed the skewer through the rubber at the densest part.
Nature Study: Living Things- Trees
Tá lúcháir orainn bheith ar ais ar scoil!
This week's nature study topic was Living Things- Trees.
We observed and identified many different trees- alder, horse chestnut, sycamore, rowan, oak, birch, beech and ash. Close and careful examination of the different twigs was a useful exercise. The children were very adept at using the identification cards to correctly name each species. We learnt lots- did you know that the higher holly leaves have smooth edges? We felt the sticky buds of the horse chestnut and saw how a bunch of birch twigs made a good broom or 'besom'. Then we went out for a nature walk - we saw the young lambs, watched the crows feeding for worms and grubs in the fields and looked at the stately beech trees lining the avenue at Rathdonnell House. We examined the hawthorn twigs and holly leaves and saw the lovely yellow spring "Lesser Celandine" flowers.
This week's nature study topic was Living Things- Trees.
We observed and identified many different trees- alder, horse chestnut, sycamore, rowan, oak, birch, beech and ash. Close and careful examination of the different twigs was a useful exercise. The children were very adept at using the identification cards to correctly name each species. We learnt lots- did you know that the higher holly leaves have smooth edges? We felt the sticky buds of the horse chestnut and saw how a bunch of birch twigs made a good broom or 'besom'. Then we went out for a nature walk - we saw the young lambs, watched the crows feeding for worms and grubs in the fields and looked at the stately beech trees lining the avenue at Rathdonnell House. We examined the hawthorn twigs and holly leaves and saw the lovely yellow spring "Lesser Celandine" flowers.
Static Electricity
We looked at the two different types of electricity current and static. We learnt all about how current electricity comes from a source, whereas static electricity we can make ourselves. We had good fun experimenting with balloons! Thanks to Ms Duggan for supplying the balloons!
Leargas / Peace IV Workshops
As we are currently unable to meet up in person, we had a virtual meeting via zoom with our partner school, Trentagh National School. We had a lovely morning facilitated by our Heritage in Schools Expert, Marina, where we learnt lots about the humble dandelion! it's so lovely to learn about plants that we see around us all the time. We have developed a new found respect for the lowly dandelion!! And it was just fantastic to see our friends from Trentagh again!
Dog Roses - Heritage in Schools Workshops
We had our second virtual workshop with Marina from Heritage in Schools. We spent a lovely hour looking at dogroses and making chalk drawings of them. The children really enjoyed it and are on the hunt for dog roses now anytime they are out and about! Thanks to Marina for making these workshops so much fun and informative!
Irish Wildflowers - Heritage in Schools Workshops
We have been working with Marina Levitina as part of the Heritage in Schools. We have really enjoyed looking closely at the meadowsweet and the hawthorn tree. We have loved hearing the Music of the Plants biofeedback device at play. The sounds that the plants make are absolutely beautiful and has really made us realise that each plant is alive. Marina is really teaching us to respect every plant we see. We learnt about the fairies in the Hawthorn tree and how no farmer in Ireland will ever pull down a hawthorn tree because of the fairies that live in the tree. It has been a really magicial experience for us all. We made our wishes and hung ribbons on a plant in our school grounds, aswell as drawing chalk drawings of the meadowsweet, which can be seen in the visual arts page.
Bog Ecology
We've been learning about bogs and enjoyed learning to identify and name some of the common bog plants and lichens. These included Field Scabious, Ling Heather, Cross-leaved heath, bog asphodel, ragwort, antler lichen, sphagnum moss and purple moor grass.
We opened the spiky part of the orange bog asphodel and were able to see the hundreds of seeds inside. Is maith an rud bheith amuigh faoin aer tráthnóna brea grianmhar san fhómhar.
We opened the spiky part of the orange bog asphodel and were able to see the hundreds of seeds inside. Is maith an rud bheith amuigh faoin aer tráthnóna brea grianmhar san fhómhar.
Outdoor Geography lesson- a trip to the river and floodplain
The recent heavy rain has caused some flooding and we were able to go on a short field-trip to see the water-logged fields. The floodplains of the Leannan river in our locality collects rainwater from a large catchment, including Gartan Lake and parts of the Derryveagh Mountains in Glenveagh during and immediately after periods of high rainfall. The rainwater rapidly flows from the uplands into the low lands around the Leannan River. The water spreads out onto the low-lying land. In the past, these areas would have been naturally marshlands. These floodplains are particularly useful in helping to control flooding in towns and villages downstream.
You will notice that the river is in flood- there is lot of water in the channel and it's flowing very quickly.
We noticed birds (eg seagulls and duck) using the lakes. They are feeding on the worms and other creatures living in the soil.
We also looked at the fields and farmlands. We saw livestock - cattle and sheep.
You will notice that the river is in flood- there is lot of water in the channel and it's flowing very quickly.
We noticed birds (eg seagulls and duck) using the lakes. They are feeding on the worms and other creatures living in the soil.
We also looked at the fields and farmlands. We saw livestock - cattle and sheep.
The science of butter-making!
The 12th of March was memorable for a few reasons- not least when we listened to our Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announce that schools were going to close as a precaution to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic. But memorable too for a fun-filled science lesson- we made butter!
By shaking the cream, the fat molecules began to separate from the liquid. The more the cream was shaken, the more these fat molecules clumped together forming a solid which was the butter. Then we had a great jar full of homemade butter . We added salt for flavour and finally, enjoyed some tea and hot buttered toast. Delicious!
As part of cross curricular learning, we sang the Churning Song, "Amhrán na Cuiginne" and read a cautionary tale from the "Schools' Collection" on Duchás.ie , which was contributed by local girl Emma Neely, Trentagh all those years ago in 1937.
She told of the superstition around butter-making and churning and how it was bad luck to refuse a stranger some hospitality on Churning Day! You can follow the link here. https://www.duchas.ie/en/cbes/4493658/4408690/4519154
By shaking the cream, the fat molecules began to separate from the liquid. The more the cream was shaken, the more these fat molecules clumped together forming a solid which was the butter. Then we had a great jar full of homemade butter . We added salt for flavour and finally, enjoyed some tea and hot buttered toast. Delicious!
As part of cross curricular learning, we sang the Churning Song, "Amhrán na Cuiginne" and read a cautionary tale from the "Schools' Collection" on Duchás.ie , which was contributed by local girl Emma Neely, Trentagh all those years ago in 1937.
She told of the superstition around butter-making and churning and how it was bad luck to refuse a stranger some hospitality on Churning Day! You can follow the link here. https://www.duchas.ie/en/cbes/4493658/4408690/4519154
Cell Explorers - our chance to work as scientists!
Cell EXPLORERS is a science outreach programme developed by the science department in the LYIT. We were so lucky to have had the chance to take part in a workshop recently. We were so well looked after by the staff and students there and enjoyed being in the wonderful science lab, using the equipment, wearing white coats and - best of all- extracting DNA from a banana!
28.02.20
We had great excitement in the Junior Room this morning. We placed both ends of a paper towel into cups filled with water and food colouring (one red, one blue). It was fascinating to watch the colour crawl up the paper towel! And when the two colours were mixed they made purple! The water moves up the paper towel because the paper is absorbent, so it sucks up water. The colour travels with the water making the paper change from white to red or blue. Colours mix when they are joined together, red and blue make purple. We learnt that the primary colours are red, blue and yellow and that these colours can be mixed together to make other colours.
We had great excitement in the Junior Room this morning. We placed both ends of a paper towel into cups filled with water and food colouring (one red, one blue). It was fascinating to watch the colour crawl up the paper towel! And when the two colours were mixed they made purple! The water moves up the paper towel because the paper is absorbent, so it sucks up water. The colour travels with the water making the paper change from white to red or blue. Colours mix when they are joined together, red and blue make purple. We learnt that the primary colours are red, blue and yellow and that these colours can be mixed together to make other colours.
Forces: investigating slopes, using pulleys and force-meters
A pulley is a simple machine which is useful for lifting things. It reduces the effort required to raise a load. It consists of a wheel with a groove through which a string or rope runs. The rope has a load on one end and someone or something pulling at the other end.
The Power of Electricity
Pupils thought about how electricity is such an important part of modern life. We learned that the ESB was founded in 1927 and read about the hydro electric scheme in Ardnacrusha, Co. Clare. Working co-operatively, reading instructions and thinking creatively, pupils were able to build their own circuits, make water wheels and play the 'steady hand' game!
Chemical changes
When we added our plain flour and salt together we noticed how they could be mixed together but also that those two substances didn’t really combine.This changed when we added the water and oil and kneaded it all together in what is known as a physical reaction.There’s not really a chemical reaction between the ingredients but what’s happened is more significant than just mixing. It’s a good indicator that a physical reaction has taken place when it would be very difficult to ‘undo’ the process and get back to the separate ingredients that we started with. We had good fun with this lesson- great linkage with art!
31.01.20 Sound travels through glass faster than through water!
17.01.20 Dyeing cotton with red cabbage, vinegar and soap!
Whales, dolphins and seals- creatures of the deep
Some of the most fascinating creatures living in the sea are the mammals. Many of them live around our coast and can be seen at any time of the year. We learnt the terms Cetacean and Pinniped and gave examples of each.
Sound is especially important to these animals and we considered how both loudness and pitch of sound is measured. We learnt the term echolocation is introduced and carried out an activity.
Many whale species were nearly wiped out in the 19th and 20th centuries because they were killed for food and oil. While this has largely stopped many dangers from our modern lifestyle are again threatening whale survival. Some of these dangers are listed. Children thought about ways by which they could help to prevent these dangers.
Many sea mammals are very intelligent and are used for research into language among other things
Sound is especially important to these animals and we considered how both loudness and pitch of sound is measured. We learnt the term echolocation is introduced and carried out an activity.
Many whale species were nearly wiped out in the 19th and 20th centuries because they were killed for food and oil. While this has largely stopped many dangers from our modern lifestyle are again threatening whale survival. Some of these dangers are listed. Children thought about ways by which they could help to prevent these dangers.
Many sea mammals are very intelligent and are used for research into language among other things
An tsúil , iomrall súl (optical illusions)
Reflection and Light
Racing with magnets!
We looked at magnets today. We discovered that there is a north and south pole in each magnet and we felt the force when we put the north end next to a south end, and also we felt how they pull apart when we put the north end next to another north end. We also learnt about the Earth being a large magnet, and how a compass always points to the north. We also discussed the theory of homing pigeons using magnets to find their way home. We also carried out an experiment proving that the force of magnetism works through water and glass.
Build an Electromagnet, charm a snake... using magnets!
Junior Room Nature Walk
We went on a nature walk today. We have been looking at trees and leaves this week during our SESE lessons and we have familiarised ourselves with some native and non native trees of Ireland. We also have become aware of evergreen trees and deciduous trees. We revised all of the birds that we learnt all about last year, such as the hooded crow, the robin and the magpie. We had a lovely walk and collected some leaves for our art project, spotted a hooded crow, a robin and some donkeys! We saw some evergreen and some deciduous trees on our walk, sang some songs, and overall had a lovely time! The sun even shone for a wee while!
Rowan, Oak and Holly
Ag deanamh staidear ar an crann darach, an crann caorthannagus an crann cuilinn. D'amharc muid go cúramach ar na samplaí a thóg an muinteoir isteach. Thug muid na smeara agus na duilleoga faoi deara. Tharraing muid learaidí ansin.
Skills: observing and identifying, being aware of how well the plants have adapted, learning about seed dispersal, active learning- discovering the tough skin on the fruit and the seed inside,
Skills: observing and identifying, being aware of how well the plants have adapted, learning about seed dispersal, active learning- discovering the tough skin on the fruit and the seed inside,
Build A Boat
We carried out an experiment today to try and build a boat using plasticine. We discussed what the challenges could be, including being too heavy and having holes in it. We started out with a ball of plasticine and made different shapes to see if they would float. We had mixed results and realised that it was quite difficult to make a boat! We did have some success and realised that it was the upthrust that assisted in the boat floating.
The Human Body- muscle magic!
Investigating: Working with a friend, children are asked to measure the diameter of their biceps muscle when their arm is bent and when it is straight. They carry out a fair test by measuring the muscle in exactly the same place each time.
They will observe that the muscle is ‘fatter’ when the arm is bent. Does the muscle pull the arm up and then
push it down; does the arm just fall down; does a different muscle pull the arm down? The third option is correct. Muscles pull; they never push. They always work in pairs.
They will observe that the muscle is ‘fatter’ when the arm is bent. Does the muscle pull the arm up and then
push it down; does the arm just fall down; does a different muscle pull the arm down? The third option is correct. Muscles pull; they never push. They always work in pairs.
Chemistry
The science of chemistry is nearly as old as human existence. Humans have always sought toidentify, use and change the materials in our environment. The strand Materials in the curriculum introduces children to some basic chemistry. Almost everything that children do or use involves chemistry. Chemistry is involved in how you digest food, use fertilisers to grow
food, make bread or cakes. Making toothpaste, soap and shampoo involves chemistry. See the activities below.
food, make bread or cakes. Making toothpaste, soap and shampoo involves chemistry. See the activities below.
Moving Air
Then Junior Room explored the concept of moving air today. We discussed how air moves things. How does air move things? Can we see air? Does air smell? Air can move things - we considered a windy day, and reflected on the recent Storm Lorenzo, and what precautions our mums and dads had to take in order to ensure that we and our property were safe. A few of us recalled our dads putting heavy weights on our trampolines!
We then gathered a few items for our Science Experiment - cotton wool, a rubber, baking paper, ping pong balls, tin foil and with a straw we blew at them and discovered some interesting findings:
We discovered that the heavier the object, the harder it was to move. We also discovered that if we blew harder through the straw, the more likely it was that the object would move. We recalled the story of the Three Little Pigs and discussed how the bricks weren't very big but that they were still heavy so the wolf did not manage to blow the brick house down!
We then gathered a few items for our Science Experiment - cotton wool, a rubber, baking paper, ping pong balls, tin foil and with a straw we blew at them and discovered some interesting findings:
We discovered that the heavier the object, the harder it was to move. We also discovered that if we blew harder through the straw, the more likely it was that the object would move. We recalled the story of the Three Little Pigs and discussed how the bricks weren't very big but that they were still heavy so the wolf did not manage to blow the brick house down!
The Moon
World Space Week, October 4-10 annually, is the largest space event on Earth. Each year the contributions of space science and technology are celebrated and this year we celebrate 50 years since humans first walked on the moon – July 20th 1969. Now NASA wants to send humans back to the moon within the children’s lifetime and perhaps set up colonies there. This would be in preparation for exploration of Mars and further out into space. Scientists are looking at how and where humans could live on the moon; (perhaps in recently discovered lava tubes). The availability of water and food is crucial for such exploration. The children discussed their ideas about what it would be like to live in space. We tried out a few activities to investigate weight and gravity and watched a very good dvd about the moon.
Helicopters
In this activity children explore how some things fall and how varying the size of the rotor blades, the shape of the rotor blades and the weight of a paper helicopter affect the way a helicopter spins. The shape of the helicopter rotor blades make it spin when dropped from a height. Gravity pulls the helicopter down. The air resists the movement and pushes up each rotor separately, causing the helicopter to spin. We had fun during this lesson. We thought about what makes the 'best' helicopter- it it the number or spins or the slowest helicopter to reach the ground? We observed whether the helicopter turned clockwise or anti-clockwise and thought about why this was so. We also designed a fair test, ie dropping from the same height and at the same time.
Static Electricity
There are two types of electricity. Current electricity is electricity from a socket or battery. Static electricity is electricity we can make ourselves. We created static electricity by rubbing a balloon on our heads! We were able to use this electricity to make rice krispies dance and we also made a tissue wormery that wriggled. We also ate a lot of rice krispies.
Energy and Forces: Sounds
The Junior Room have been exploring sounds this week. We identified things in the environment that make sounds. We carried out 2 different experiments. Our first experiment was to see could we identify sounds without using our eyes. It was harder then we thought! In the second experiment we explored the concept of muffled sounds. We clapped beside someone, then we clapped beside them using different things to muffle the sounds and examined which made the sound less loud. We used cotton wool in our ears, a piece of paper and a hat to cover our ears! It was great fun!
The Junior Room have been exploring sounds this week. We identified things in the environment that make sounds. We carried out 2 different experiments. Our first experiment was to see could we identify sounds without using our eyes. It was harder then we thought! In the second experiment we explored the concept of muffled sounds. We clapped beside someone, then we clapped beside them using different things to muffle the sounds and examined which made the sound less loud. We used cotton wool in our ears, a piece of paper and a hat to cover our ears! It was great fun!
Static electricity
Electricity is a big part of modern life. The electricity we use to power our washing machines, photocopiers and computers is 'current' electricity. Smaller machines can use electricity from batteries. There is another type of electricity calle static electricity and we enjoyed investigating with a few clever experiments.
Forces: Magnets
We have been exploring magnets in the Junior Room. We learnt about Opposites and about the North and South Poles in the magnets. We also investigated what materials were magnetic. We looked at paper clips, our plastic chairs, a pencil, the tap at the sink and a sharpener! We were very surprised with some of our findings! We also had great fun feeling the push and pull that the magnets create.
Discover Primary Science and Maths Awards of Excellence!
This is our 7th year to have been awarded this important award. The children enjoy plenty of science lessons and are encouraged to work scientifically with teacher-developed hands-on activities. You can see lots of our work on the Science and STEM pages. Here's what the judges had to say: Well done to St. Joseph's Rathdonnell on your log of evidence. It is clear that there is a lot of STEM activity happening throughout the school. For future reference, please provide more details on the showcase and perhaps invite your parents to participate also - you have plenty to show and tell. Well done to pupils and teachers for all the hard work and well deserved Plaque of STEM for 2019!
Investigating a freshwater pond
A small freshwater pond is an ideal habitat for children to study. Our classroom is well-equipped with buckets, white plastic trays, (butter tubs) sieves, magnifers and natureviewers, clipboards and identification aids- leaflets and books. We have enjoyed some lovely lessons outside in the fine spring sunshine. Back in the classroom, the children did some follow up work, recording, identifying, drawing, measuring and discussing. We are careful to be safe and to handle the minibeasts carefully, returning them to the pond when finished. So far, the children have identified the great diving beetle, whirligig beetle, mayfly nymphs, diving beetle larvae and tadpoles,
Tree Week
In this issue of the Eureka we discussed how trees played an important role in the lives of the ancient Irish.
Ash, yew and oak were especially important. In fact Sessile Oak is sometimes considered as a
national symbol. There are two types of oak native to Ireland. We used our winter tree cards to identify ash, beech and oak.
Ash, yew and oak were especially important. In fact Sessile Oak is sometimes considered as a
national symbol. There are two types of oak native to Ireland. We used our winter tree cards to identify ash, beech and oak.
The Wonder of Water
World water day took place on 22nd March and the theme for 2019 is ‘Leaving no one behind’. However, at the moment about 783 million people cannot get clean water. Drought, pollution, the spread of deserts and the effects of global warming and climate change are making clean safe water increasingly scarce. During medieval times a person used only 18 litres per day compared with 140-150 litres today. In Africa. on average, each person uses 18 litres of water per day.
Although we find water all around us and so it seems quite ordinary, from a scientific point of view water is very strange. So we considered some points such as ice floating on liquid water, how so many substances dissolve in water and surface tension. The stickiness of water, which gives rise to surface tension, allows us to use water in hoses, pump water around our radiators and allows insects to walk on water. Almost every known chemical dissolves in water which can be both a good and a bad thing. We looked at how water can be cleaned and considered the cost of this.
Although we find water all around us and so it seems quite ordinary, from a scientific point of view water is very strange. So we considered some points such as ice floating on liquid water, how so many substances dissolve in water and surface tension. The stickiness of water, which gives rise to surface tension, allows us to use water in hoses, pump water around our radiators and allows insects to walk on water. Almost every known chemical dissolves in water which can be both a good and a bad thing. We looked at how water can be cleaned and considered the cost of this.
Investigating structures and designing bridges
Bridges have always been important because they allow people to travel over rivers and streams. Some bridges are small, while other bridges span 2km or more. Bridges seem like a simple invention, but they’re actually quite complex. Engineers who build bridges must think about the distance to be covered, as well as the type of traffic that will cross the bridge. A bridge for cars and trains must be stronger than a simple bridge for foot travel.
Geology
We enjoy our geography work and in particular -geology! There is so much to learn about rocks, soil and minerals. We have some good resources and the children enjoy handling the rocks, examining fossils, testing for the presence of CO2 in limestone and testing the hardness of rocks, to name a few activities. We always begin by just thinking about rock and stone, mountains, cliffs- the coast and landscape around us. See photos below- young geographers and geologists at work!
Ar Snámh (Floating)
Cén fáth a bhfannan báid agus rudaí áirithe ar snámh? (Why do boats and some other things float?)
Smaoinigh muid ar an cheist seo agus ansin rinne muid na gníomhaíochtaí thíos chun imscrudú a dheanamh.
Fuair muid amach go mbraitheann (it depends) sé ar chruth an ruda.
Smaoinigh muid ar an cheist seo agus ansin rinne muid na gníomhaíochtaí thíos chun imscrudú a dheanamh.
Fuair muid amach go mbraitheann (it depends) sé ar chruth an ruda.
Growing Crystals
Magnesium is one of the 4000 different minerals that have been discovered. It is found in Epsom Salts (a type of salt that can be bought in a chemist shop and which are often used for bathing. We began this experiment to try and grow our own crystals. We created a supersaturated solution. We will observe the experiment over the next few days and weeks.
Exploring Sound
This week's science lesson focused on energy and forces and sound. We thought about how sounds occur in nature, for example thunder, birdsong or whale song underwater. Sound travels very fast- about 340 metres per second. We observed this by blowing up a balloon, watching it burst and hearing the loud bang instantly!
Main teaching and learning points:
Sound is produced when something (air, water,metal etc.) vibrates The longer the vibrating source the lower the pitch of the sound/note.
The shorter the vibrating source the higher the pitch of the sound/note.
Activities included: Using string telephones, making a coat hanger clanger, making a 'guitar', making a paper banger and devising an experiment to 'see' sound!
Main teaching and learning points:
Sound is produced when something (air, water,metal etc.) vibrates The longer the vibrating source the lower the pitch of the sound/note.
The shorter the vibrating source the higher the pitch of the sound/note.
Activities included: Using string telephones, making a coat hanger clanger, making a 'guitar', making a paper banger and devising an experiment to 'see' sound!
Engineering challenge- design a shoe!
Engineering week is 2nd- 8th March. When we think of engineers we tend to think of bridges, roads or large structures perhaps. However engineers are involved in all aspects of design- even the design of shoes! We had to come up with our own sandal design, thinking, planning, working collaboratively and even modifying the finished shoe. See how it worked out below....
Investigating friction
Friction can be a useful force because it prevents our shoes slipping on the pavement when we walk and stops car tyres skidding on the road. When you walk, friction is caused between the tread on shoes and the ground. This friction acts to grip the ground and prevent sliding.
Waterproof Materials
This week we have been looking at waterproof materials. We were trying to find out what the best materials we could use to make hats for our teddy bears. The teddy bears were planning a picnic and we wanted to make sure they were well prepared! First of all, we carried out an experiment to work out which hat worked the best. We had a woolly hat, a plastic hat and a paper hat. We dropped some water on each of these and waited to see what would happen!
Our next experiment involved working out what would be the best material to make the hats from. We tried cotton, plastic, leather and rubber.
Our Teddies had a lovely picnic in the end.
Bird Migration in the Junior Room.
The Junior Room has been looking at bird migration during their SESE / Aistear lessons. We have looked at the swallow and how far it flies - all the way to South Africa! And then flies all the way back to Ireland in the Spring to make their nests and rear their young. We discovered some new birds, that we had never hear of before - the chiffchaff and the whooper swan. We have looked at the seasons and how they affect birds and animals. The infants have had great fun learning the nursery rhyme 'Two Little Dickie Birds' and we have all loved reading about the story of The Happy Prince by Oscar Wilde. The Infants also were extremely creative when they were playing with play doh and came up with all sorts of different types of birds! We have put up bird feeders on the trees and are really enjoying seeing the visitors to the yard while we are doing our work! I think it's fair to say that the Junior Room love birds!!
Winter Solstice
Newgrange pre-dates the pyramids of Egypt. Many of the stones used were transported for miles, using very simple tools. We investigated how heavy loads might have been moved. We also made basic levers, seeing how pivots can be used.
Magnets
Magnets have mysterious powers and we enjoyed this recent lesson. We discovered that magnets have a North and a South pole and that two north ends will repel each other while a north and a south will attract. We examined the magnetic field around magnets, discovering that the ends of a magnet are strongest. Pupils made their own compasses and watched how all the needles pointed north. Some pupils even successfully built their own electromagnets!
Submarines, floating and sinking
Ships like the "Oasis of the Sea" are huge and they obviously weigh a lot. (This cruise ship is 20 storeys high and is as long as 4 football fields)- so how do weight and size matter when it comes to floating and sinking? We tested a variety of objects- a grape, an unpeeled orange and orange segments. The smaller objects sank while the large unpeeled orange floated. This is because the orange peel contains a lot of air. In another activity, we made a periscope and used mirrors to bounce light and to see around corners. We also commanded a deep sea diver. A submarine floods its tanks with water when it wants to dive.
Caves and how they form, chemistry- growing a stalactite,
Amazing Air
It can be hard to think of air as being real, because we can't see it. However, we carried out a few very interesting experiments to investigate just how amazing air really is!
The Junior Room Nature Walk
The Junior Room enjoyed a lovely nature walk this morning. We were well prepared with our wellies and high vis jackets. Thankfully, the rain held off so we had a really great time. We brought binoculars and clipboards so we could really keep track of what we saw. We saw plenty of evergreen trees, some pine cones and lots and lots of nettles! We have been looking closely at local birds in the classroom so we were delighted to be able to identify some hooded crows and some starlings with our binoculars. We recorded as much as we could and we had some time to splash in puddles with our wellies on. It was a great opportunity to get out of the classroom and enjoy our local environment.
Creating a Water Wheel
Continuing with our water theme, the Junior Room created a water wheel today, made from cardboard, a knitting needle and some plastic cups. We had great fund creating it and we were all so delighted when our contraption actually worked. We discussed why it worked and realised that gravity played a part, just like in the water cycle, when the water falls down as precipitation. We brainstormed where we could place a water wheel in the environment, and after a good deal of thought, we worked out that under a waterfall would be the perfect spot! We discussed other sources of natural energy such as wind farms and solar energy, Lots of learning and fun in this exercise.
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Floating Objects
Today, the Junior Room carried out an experiment to work out what materials floated in water. We estimated first and then carried out our experiment by placing objects into a basin of water. Some of our estimates were correct but some we were surprised at! We learnt that wood and plastic floated best in water, while stones and metal did not float at all. We had good fun and even had a play with the water after the experiment!
Weather patterns, jetstreams, air pressure
The pressure of the atmosphere, that large ocean of air, affects our weather. Sometimes the pressure is low and sometimes it is high. It is hard to believe it but there is more than a kilogram of air pressing on your skin- but you don't feel it because is is pressing equally all around and the forces are balanced out. We carried out many experiments and activities.- showing that air has weight, checking the difference between low and high pressure, seeing how air presses upwards (the amazing glass of water and card trick!) and 'stopping' water from flowing out of a straw.
Caterpillars / Life Cycle of the Butterfly
Today the Junior Room came across lots of caterpillars using our bug finders! We brought them into the classroom so everybody could have a good look. We learnt all about the life cycle of the butterfly and watched as the caterpillars munched away on their leaves, stocking up in preparation for hiding in their chrysalis for up to fifteen days before breaking out to be beautiful butterflies! The Senior pupils also enjoyed observing and handling these beautiful creatures. They researched the life cycle of the cabbage white butterfly, wrote up their work, drew their observations and the following day prepared their own Powerpoints during ICT work.
We are enthusiastic about the Discover Primary Science and Maths programme and are proud to have been awarded Plaques of Excellence for Science and Maths for the past six years now.