WHY?
The Practical science (15+) course specifically develops practical investigative skills and use of the English language in the context of a school laboratory for anyone who plans to take science beyond the age of 15.
BENEFITS
The practical science course develops the practical skills required for the successful study of science beyond the age of 15.
Students taking this course will:
- Work in “state of the art” well-equipped laboratories
- Plan and carry out an investigation in a chosen subject area
- Meet practising scientists from the University of Oxford
- Learn some computer coding
- Take part in multiple science outings to university facilities
- Produce a poster presentation
OVERVIEW
Laboratory work includes: introducing measurement, heating and observational techniques. Students learn how to: identify and control variables, record results, draw and evaluate conclusions, measure, use data logging equipment and microscopes.
Visits to the University of Oxford: Student activities will draw information and gain inspiration from the world-famous Natural History Museum and Pitt Rivers Museum as well the History of Science Museum and the University Botanical Gardens.
Guest Speakers: Practising scientists from the University of Oxford present their research and discuss “how to become a scientist”.
Opportunities for specialisation: After the initial introduction to generic practical science skills and language, students are offered a choice of topics for investigation from Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
Poster Exhibition: The course culminates with a poster presentation by the students to an invited audience of their peers. This not only tests the students’ scientific abilities but also allows them to showcase their newly acquired language and communication skills.