New draft Experiences and Outcomes within Materials - Topical Science 

Topical Slime

Draft Outcomes

I have contributed to a class display of current scientific news items to help me develop an awareness of topical science. SCN 116BB

Through research and discussion I have an appreciation of the contribution that individuals are making to scientific discovery and invention and the impact this has made on society. SNC 235BB

I can report and comment on a current scientific news item to develop my awareness of topical science. SCN 236BB

In the Primary classroom there will be many ways of approaching Topical Science depending on a particular age group. These could include researching and talking about issues children may have heard about on local and national news channels. By looking at a variety of sources for an issue, children will begin to see that some sources are not as reliable as others. They may begin to be able to discriminate between someone’s point of view and the facts in the story.  Their research skills should help to develop their questioning skills and allow them to weigh up the evidence presented in the media.

The Topical Science line of progression provides opportunities for consideration of ethical issues and critical evaluation, for example, of media portrayal of scientific findings and offers possible opportunities for integrating outcomes from other areas in the curriculum.  

Use BBC Children’s NewsRound by watching or recording the program or go online on their website and explore the Science and Technology in the news. Another good website is www.sciencenewsforkids.org.   It is a new website devoted to science news for children of ages 9 to 14.

It includes timely items of interest to children, accompanied by suggestions for hands-on activities, books, articles, Web resources, and other useful materials.

Topical Slime

Scientists at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh have discovered that the mucus secreted by giant African land snails might have important applications in medical science. They found that the snails' slime contains unusual crystals of calcite - a commonly occurring mineral, which could lead to a new treatment for broken bones.

They have also persuaded giraffes to dribble into glass jars but its all part of research into natural lubricants which may have crucial implications in the treatment for such diseases as cystic fibrosis. By discovering what enables a giraffe to digest the thorns on garden roses, the scientists will gain a better understanding of the causes of mucus-based health problems. This may, in time, lead to the design of improved engineering lubricants.

Materials - Elements