Science

Expanding Metal (7SCI)

Ball and Ring Experiment.

In Science, 7F have been exploring particle theory. Students conducted a practical exploring how metal expands when it is heated. They found that initially the ball could pass through the metal ring, but when the ball was heated it expanded and would no longer fit through.  

Students explained their results by describing how the particles in the metal vibrate faster and move further away from each other when heated. 

Build A Kettle (8SCI)

While learning about different forms of energy (heat, light, kinetic, sound and electrical) and energy transfer (conduction, convection and radiation) the Year 8 students got to build their own kettle. 

As you can see from the photos below, they are working very intently to record the change in temperature caused by the conversion of energy from electrical to heat. Every minute they had to record the temperature by reading the scale on the thermometer. Students had to discuss the transfer of heat from the electrical coil to the water and the overall energy efficiency of their kettle. 

Unanimously they decided that these kettles were not efficient, probably with a rating of 1 or less. Suggestions to improve the rating ranged from adding insulation to the beaker to keep heat in and a well-fitting lid to stop heat from escaping. I don’t think sunbeam have any worries about kettle sales just yet, but our students have learnt about heat transfer and energy efficiency. Very well done to all involved. 

Light (9SCI)

As part of our ‘Light’ topic, Year 9 students investigated how different lenses refract light.  Refraction is the bending of light. The most common lens shapes are convex and concave.  

Students took the investigation one step further and compared the lenses in their own glasses to the results obtained in the investigation. 

An early introduction to Optometry!

Wayne Agg, Kylie Dwyer, John Kenyon

Science Domain