School Workshops
Science Week Ireland: The Super Science of Water
Science is relevant and important to each and every one of us, each and every day of our lives – a fact celebrated every year by Science Week Ireland. This year’s Science Week will take place from November 9th – 13th, with the theme of “Water” – and our programme, The Super Science of Water, is the perfect way to help your school celebrate this key event!
Introduction
The island of Ireland is, of course, defined by water – surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean (to the North and West), the Celtic Sea (to the South) and the Irish Sea (to the East), and home to two of the largest lakes in Europe – Lough Neagh and Lough Corrib. We drink in it, we cook with it, we wash with it – and we use it to water our gardens. But how often do we stop to think about the super science of water? Because water breaks all the rules!
Able to accommodate the whole of up to a two-form entry school in a single day, The Super Science of Water opens with a whole-school assembly bringing to life some of the ways we use water – and some of the things it does that still baffle the scientists of today. This leads to a series of age-differentiated, drama-based workshops exploring particular aspects of this magical liquid and focusing in on the water-based achievements of some amazing Irish pioneers.
Junior & Senior Infants/P1: How Water Keeps Us Healthy … and a look at the life and legacy of Kitty Wilkinson, born in Derry-Londonderry in 1785.
| Year Groups | Junior Infants – 6th Second Class |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | Science |
| Pupil Numbers | 60 pupils per workshop |
| Duration | 30-45 minutes upwards (depending on how many classes) |
1st & 2nd Class/P2 & P3: The Science of the Rivers … and a look at the life and work of Alice Perry, born in Galway – and one of the first female engineers in Europe.
3rd & 4th Class/P4 & P5: Engineering Water Transport … and a look at the life and work of John Philip Holland, born in County Clare – and the inventor of the submarine.
5th & 6th Second Class/P6 & P7: The Science of the Oceans … and a look at the life and work of John Joly, born in County Offaly – and who came up with a method for calculating the age of the oceans.
Workshop FAQs
How many pupils can take part?
The Super Science of Water can accommodate up-to 60 pupils per workshop.
What is the format of the day?
An opening assembly, followed by workshops for up to 2 classes at a time.
Are there any technical requirements?
Your visitor will need access to a projector and screen.
Where will the workshops take place?
These workshops will require the use of the school hall.
Workshop Testimonials
“The children loved the workshop. They were highly engaged and were chatting about it after each session. Lots of positive energy and there was a buzz in the workshops.
I cannot praise Jo Stokes enough. Her communication and adaptability around our school closures due to the heat was exceptional. She was so forthcoming and flexible with our changes and strived to make timetables work so that all children could be seen. Many members of staff commented on her vivacity, energy and how she commanded such large audiences. She is fantastic!”
“The children loved the workshops and were fully engaged with the activities and the learning. They learnt some surprising new facts about our world and the creatures in it! They loved the way this was presented and enjoyed the inclusive and interactive nature of the workshops. Why haven’t I thought of presenting new information in this way before?!”
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