Solving Quadratics

 Solving Quadratics using the formula on paper as a surd and then converting the answer to a decimal in the calculator, using the formula typed into the calculator, or using the polynomial solver. I teach all three and let the students decide the most appropriate to use when needed.

Eclipse

Using a Tellurium to demonstrate an eclipse. Why doesn't an eclipse happen every month, and how the moon's phases work. Being able to see the moon's orbit and then the size to scale dispels many of the preconceived ideas the students have of space.

Translation

 Translation of RNA to Proteins is one of the hardest concepts and mechanisms for students to understand. Using the @Molymod molecules, the students can visualise and play with the models to improve their understanding.

Keyword Variables

Dependent variable is the variable of which the value is measured for each and every change in the independent variable. 

Independent variable is the variable for which values are changed or selected by the investigator

Adder

 Computing understanding Boolean logic gates. We created an adder using some logic software and turning tumbles, as well as creating the circuit using a BBC Microbit controlling physical chips to light LEDs - at this scale, a computer chip would be miles across.

Burning Candles

Which candle will go out first when we put the beaker on top? Is it the volume of the stacking candles making the flame go out, or is it the height?  Height made a difference. The high candle always went out first with the same volume used up. Why might that be? All big problems for year 8 chemistry.

 

Drop Counter

Using the @Pascoscientific drop counter with the Chemistry sensor, the pH sensor, and the temperature sensor to determine the changes when an Acid reacts with an Alkali.