Activity: Pollution calculator

Biology: Material cycles and energy

Photosynthesis

• the reactants in, and products of, photosynthesis, and a word summary for photosynthesis
• the dependence of almost all life on Earth on the ability of photosynthetic organisms, such as plants and algae, to use sunlight in photosynthesis to build organic molecules that are an essential energy store and to maintain levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

Interactions and interdependencies

Relationships in an ecosystem

• how organisms affect, and are affected by, their environment, including the accumulation of toxic materials

Working Scientifically Skills

Experimental skills and investigations

• ask questions and develop a line of enquiry based on observations of the real world, alongside prior knowledge and experience
• make predictions using scientific knowledge and understanding

Analysis and evaluation

• apply mathematical concepts and calculate results
• present observations and data using appropriate methods, including tables and graphs
• interpret observations and data, including identifying patterns and using observations, measurements and data to draw conclusions
• present reasoned explanations, including explaining data in relation to predictions and hypotheses
• evaluate data, showing awareness of potential sources of random and systematic error
• identify further questions arising from their results

Teacher notes

• Prior knowledge of photosynthesis is needed. The photosynthesis equation can be taught as a precursor to this activity. SCN 3-02a

Planet Earth

Biodiversity and Interdependence

I have collaborated on investigations into the process of photosynthesis and I can demonstrate my understanding of why plants are vital to sustaining life on Earth. SCN 3-02a

• Describes the process of photosynthesis (using the word equation) in terms of reactants (raw materials) and products.
• Applies knowledge gained from practical investigations to explain how green plants make their own food in the form of sugars and store this as starch.
• Investigates and presents information on how plants help to sustain life, for example, by providing oxygen, food, habitat, raw materials and medicines.

Biological Systems

Body systems and cells

I have explored the role of technology in monitoring health and improving the quality of life. SCN 3-12b

• Uses a variety of instruments to monitor and record aspects of health, for example, pulse rate, blood pressure and recovery rate and gives examples of other aspects of health that may be monitored, for example, cholesterol and BMI.
• Researches one condition that is screened for (for example, bowel cancer, macular degeneration and diabetes) and describes the symptoms of the condition.

Topical Science

Topical science

• I have collaborated with others to find and present information on how scientists from Scotland and beyond have contributed to innovative research and development. SCN 3-20a
• Collaborates with others to research how scientists, and those who use science in their jobs, have contributed to the development of scientific ideas.
• Communicates findings in a suitable way to give an example of how scientists contribute to innovative research and development.
• Gives examples of how skills developed through science are used in a wide variety of jobs and careers including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers.

Third Level Scientific Skills

Inquiry and Investigative Skills

Presents scientific findings:

• Presents data/information using an increasing range of tables, charts, diagrams and graphs and using suitable scales, with limited assistance

Carries out practical activities within a variety of learning environments:

• Collects increasingly complex data and information using a range of methods and equipment, for example, data and software analysis tools (where available)
• Includes a control experiment when appropriate in experimental design

Analyses, interprets and evaluates scientific findings:

• Relates findings to scientific knowledge and understanding
• Draws a conclusion based on results gathered and in relation to the aim

Scientific Analytical Thinking Skills

• Demonstrates further development of creative thinking including through the engineering processes of design, construction, testing and modification

Skills and Attributes of Scientifically Literate Citizens

• Demonstrates understanding of the impact of science on society and debates and discusses the moral and ethical implications of some scientific developments, demonstrating respect for the views of others.
• Expresses informed views about topical scientific issues, including those featured in the media, based on evidence and demonstrating understanding of underlying scientific concepts.
• Demonstrates increased awareness of creativity and inventiveness in science and the use of technologies in the development of sciences

Science AOLE

Being Curious KS3

• I can select relevant scientific knowledge from a range of evidence sources to evaluate claims presented as facts.
• I can review my own opinions based on new scientific evidence.

Humanities AOLE

Enquiry KS2

• I can use appropriate methods to gather information related to my enquiries and I am able to interpret the information obtained in the context of the enquiry question.

Curriculum Subject Links

• The environment and human influences
• Investigate the effects of pollution, for example, water, air, land, sound etc. and specific measures to improve and protect the environment, for example, renewable energy, efficient use of resources and waste minimisation etc.
• Investigate what can be done to conserve and promote biodiversity, for example, school wildlife gardens / wilderness areas, anti-pollution strategies, habitat management etc.

Curriculum Skill Links

• Communicate information, ideas, opinions, feelings and imaginings, using an expanding vocabulary
• Thinking, Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
• Planning for investigations, obtaining evidence, presenting and interpreting results
• Research scientific information from a range of sources
• Use investigative skills to explore scientific issues, solve problems and make informed decisions
• Show deeper scientific understanding by thinking critically and flexibly, solving problems and making informed decisions, using Mathematics and ICT where appropriate