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NEWTON FIELD CENTRE

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SCIENCE INVESTIGATIONS FOR KEY STAGE 2 SATs
Newton Field Centre specialises in running practical courses to support the science and geography curricula taught in schools. In 2007 - 2008 the science specialists at Newton Field Centre are offering one day SATs courses based on investigations designed to reinforce the correct approach to formulating and investigating scientific questions.
The examples outlined below are based on QCA units which, ideally, require the combination of practical field work and classroom follow up that the centre is experienced in providing. All programmes start with an introduction to the field centre and advice on health and safety.

Rocks and soils
am Introduction to the rocks and soils of the area.
Field excursion to collect rock and soil samples.
Classroom practical on the characteristics of rocks and soils.
pm Experiment on the flow of water through different soils. This involves consideration of: a fair test, making accurate measurements, repeating measurements, presentation and interpretation of results, predicting from results.

Plants and shade
am Introduction to plants and light (including photosynthesis, shade and adaptation). Outline of project and discussion on fair test.
Field excursion to collect the leaves of a grassland plant growing in shaded and open areas.
Classroom practical on the size of leaves from different areas.
pm Presentation and interpretation of results.
Field excursion to local wood to test predictions about the effects of shade on plants.

Habitats and invertebrates
am Introduction to habitats and invertebrates. Outline of project and discussion on fair test.
Field excursion to sample two contrasting grassland habitats for invertebrates.
Classroom practical: sorting invertebrates.
pm Classroom practical: identification and classification of invertebrates using microscopes and keys. Presentation and interpretation of results. Predicting from results.

NB
• Teachers are welcome to request courses on any aspect of the science curriculum.
• The centre has well equipped and comfortable facilities and is available for booking throughout the year.
• All courses are planned, taught and resourced by the centre.
• Teaching sites are within easy walking distance of the centre. Walks do not involve roads and all activities take place in typical, low risk, lowland countryside. Risk assessments are available for all courses.

For further information courses and costs please contact the centre. Email