Enriching Science

London: Optimus Education 200

Reviewer: Belle Wallace, Director, TASC International

‘We need young people to be inspired by the sciences and mathematics so that they choose these subjects in sufficient numbers to ensure that the UK’s economy prospers and that we retain our place as a world leader in science and technology.’

Professor Martin Taylor, vice-president, The Royal Society (p iii)

The aim in producing this collection of enrichment and extension activities for able children is to inspire more children to study science, to encourage scientific literacy, to foster creativity and to stimulate informed debate about the direction that science needs to take in our complex society. The activities in the Applying Science section cover topics such as: Living on Mars, Intergalactic weight loss, Beyond mauveine, Water witching, MANIAC 2, - an arresting collection of titles that lures the reader to investigate further. 

The next three sections cover topics for KS3 and KS4 in biology, chemistry and physics. Again an interesting collection of titles posed primarily as questions that persuade the reader to continue to explore: 

• In biology - Why eight metres of intestine? Why the quagga? Are we ready to pipe, quack and dance?
• In chemistry - Why did Mendeleev leave gaps? Dramatic chemistry; Don’t worry, we have a billion years to try something;
• In physics - Ghost images; Bungee jumping; The rumble of elephants.

The collection of activities also suggests a range of topics for whole day investigations. Titles such as: The alchemist’s cauldron; Going where no golf ball has ever been before; and,  I’m forever blowing bubbles; convey the creative and quirky titles of this section.  

The activities show the links with the National Curriculum, suggest the range of necessary resources, and where possible, indicate websites for further reading and exploration.

The writers have brought together an exciting range of scientific explorations and investigations - enough to inspire both teachers and students to enter the world of science and mathematics with interest and enthusiasm.

GEI Vol 23 No 3