Dolphin School's STEM Week: A Journey Through Time and Discovery
AT the beginning of March, Dolphin School was abuzz with excitement as students and staff plunged headfirst into a whirlwind of scientific exploration during their annual STEM Week.
It was a fantastic opportunity for the entire school to come together and celebrate the wonders of science, infusing every lesson with a dash of curiosity and creativity. With the overarching theme of time, Dolphin School embarked on a journey through the ages, exploring the intricacies of time in various subjects. From the aerodynamics of golf balls to the mysteries of gravity and space, we looked at it all.
We had two wonderful external speakers. The first was Science Professor Rob – he dazzled students with many experiments, from putting water balloons in fire to slime-making extravaganzas. Through these lively demonstrations, Professor Rob illustrated the close relationship between time, gravity, and space, leaving students both entertained and informed.
The second was Max Barton, an Old Delphinian, who mesmerized Year 4, 7, and 8 students with his insights into the aerodynamics of golf balls. Using incense sticks to demonstrate airflow, Max left the audience in awe of the complexities involved in a seemingly simple item.
In Geography, students rolled up their sleeves and dived into the messy world of sand and water timers, discovering first-hand the challenges of precise measurement. The accuracy was challenging but they persevered and managed their variables well. Art took on a scientific twist as students crafted intricate Air-Dried Clay images inspired by their scientific explorations, showcasing their science knowledge and their artistic skills.
Meanwhile, Year 6 students got together with their Nursery and Reception buddies to understand the passage of time a little more. They explored this through fun activities like star jumps and one-legged balancing contests. A lovely chance for them to get to know each other more and build their relationships.
Year 5 students embarked on a thrilling trip to Wellington College, where chemistry came alive with colourful explosions and bangs. Back at school, Year 3 students concocted their own "Marvellous Medicines," with results ranging from the sublime to the downright disgusting, much to their delight. Their instruction writing in English was brought to life in the lab! And in English class, Year 7 and 8 students brought Frankenstein to life through experiments in galvanization, delving into the electrifying world of the nervous system using the TENS machine and the electronic foot massager.
Even Mathematics got in on the scientific action, as Year 4 students used magnets to explore the mysteries of division. A whole day was dedicated to Maths during the week which involved relay races, problem solving and teamwork in their houses. Engineering was celebrated, the children throughout the school planned and made balancing structures using limited resources. Teamwork was certainly a skill that was required.
The pinnacle of the week was undoubtedly the Science Fair, where students from across the school showcased their scientific prowess. From exploding clocks to intricate family trees, the fair was a testament to the creativity and collaboration that defines Dolphin School.
Overall, STEM Week at Dolphin School was filled with awe and wonder as students discovered the relevance of science to everyday life. The children had fun and learnt along the way.
For more information and to learn more about Dolphin School, please contact Kate Sp ooner at admissions@dolphinschool.com, call 0118 934 1277 or visit our website at www.dolphinschool.com.