Discussion
Open-ended discussion around maths and science topics can extend ideas beyond the classroom or curriculum. Science and Maths are not only subjects learned in lessons, whether at home or at school: they are subjects with relevant, fascinating and practical applications in everyday life.
Images
Use images to get people talking about objects and stories. Each resource contains background information and discussion questions to pique pupil curiosity and ignite discussions.
Maths moment
Maths and Computing image bank. This free downloadable image bank showcases the tools, people and challenges behind the development of computers.
For KS2 (7-11) and KS3 (11-14)
Science Spark
3D model of an artificial arm. This prosthetic (artificial replacement) arm was made in 1904 for a professional pianist – a woman called Elizabeth Burton.
For KS2 (7-11), KS3 (11-14) and KS4 (14-16)
Maths Moment
3D model of the Enigma machine. Enigma cipher machines were designed to create complex encrypted messages that were almost impossible to break.
For KS2 (7-11), KS3 (11-14) and KS4 (14-16)
Science Spark
Tim Peake’s Spacecraft: image bank. Learn about Tim Peake’s Spacecraft, Soyuz, and his journey to the International Space Station with our free image bank.
For KS2 (7-11) and KS3 (11-14)
Videos
Play short, thought-provoking videos and then get students talking about how these ideas relate to their own everyday lives.
Maths Moment
Where can you find patterns? Explore patterns and make creative connections between maths, biology, art, design, and history.
Runtime: 1 minute 48 seconds
For KS1 (5-7) and KS2 (7-11)
Science Spark
What would life be life without electricity? Explore electricity and make creative links between science, history, literacy and design.
Runtime: 2 minutes 40 seconds
For KS1 (5-7) and KS2 (7-11)
Maths Moment
Can you lift something heavier than yourself? Explore pulleys and make creative connections between forces, literacy, PE, history, art and design.
Runtime: 2 minutes 33 seconds
For KS2 (7-11), KS3 (11-14) and KS4 (14-16)
Discovery and investigation
Demos and table top activities
Engaging activities that can be done as demonstrations with a bit of preparation time and easy-to-find materials. Add a bit of wonder and wow to your assemblies or mornings.
Maths Moment
Mystery tubes. Work out how shoelaces are connected inside a closed tube.
For KS2 (7-11) and KS3 (11-14)
Science Spark
Kitchen Science. Step-by-step instructions for science activities and experiments to do in the classroom or at home.
For KS2 (7-11)
Maths Moment
Bubble geometry. Make use of geometry in observing the shapes and angles soap bubbles create when they join together.
For KS2 (7-11)
Science Spark
Tune-boosters. Find ways to boost your smartphone speakers using objects found around the home.
For KS2 (7-11) and KS3 (11-14)
5 minute challenges
Print out these object hunts for students to use or choose some of the questions to ask aloud. While these hunts are designed to be used in a museum, they can be applied to a home or classroom setting too.
Maths Moment
Great object hunt: Maths. Find something that is symmetrical; something that you could use to count with…
For KS1 (5-7) and KS2 (7-11)
Science Spark
Great object hunt: Light and Sound. Find something you could use to send a message; something that can capture an image…
For KS1 (5-7) and KS2 (7-11)
Maths Moment
Great object hunt: Design & Engineering. Find something you think is beautiful and useful; something that solves a problem…
For KS2 (7-11), KS3 (11-14) and KS4 (14-16)
Science Spark
Great object hunt: Explorer. Find something that makes your life easier; something that makes an interesting shadow…