Over the past couple of weeks in sustainable development we have been focusing on energy which is also closely related to electricity. The first week we were split into groups to research the pros and cons of the use of wind turbines. After some research the class was spilt into two sides: for and against. This was a good exercise. We were then focusing on electricity. As always there were different stations for us to rotate round. These activities were very practical and involved a lot of trial and error and teamwork.
The second week we had a lecture from a guest speaker from Onthank Primary School who has an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). She introduced us to the Primary Engineering Project which encourages STEM but in particular engineering. She showed us an example of an activity she had done with a primary one class who were examining magnetic forces.
The thing that stood out most for me through this input was the encouragement of making mistakes. I think this is important when teaching children as it allows them to build their confidence and willingness to keep trying. It is also vital that as teachers we show that we too make mistakes.
For the practical session we were given resources to create a windmill (anemometer) and create a lesson plan as though we had delivered this to a primary class.
The skills I have gained through these inputs:
- Debate skills
- Research skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Wider reading
- analysing
- Deeper understanding of STEM (particularly engineering)
- Knowledge on energy and electricity
- Practical skills
- Trial and error
- Lesson planning
