June 2009 - Posts
I have received early notification of some Physics workshops for next year. The information hints some more funding might be found to support schools with this. Please see attached zipped files for more details.
As usual, click on the title and a new page opens. The zipped file is attached and visible on the new page.
Please find attached the APP tracker spreadsheet as discussed in various training sessions recently. This is one way to track your judgements. Please see the instructions which are included with the spreadsheet in the zipped file. These also include some "Health Warnings" about using the spreadsheet.
You might like to read the recent article in "Education in Science " (the ASE journal) about APP and how the "Wiki science" team are apporaching the issue. I'm sure other systems and methods will emerga as time goes by. A crucial factor will be the way inspections, school policies and teacher preferences mould the way APP is used.
It will, under whatever "system" adopted, be important to be able to show how you have moderated judgements within schools and between schools. Watch this space for support with the latter.
A public consultation on GCSE science criteria by the QCA (Qualifications and Curriculum Authority) to gain views on proposed changes to the content and assessment of science GCSEs will begin on Friday 19th June.QCA has been working with its counterparts in Wales and Northern Ireland to develop and update the criteria for biology, chemistry, physics and science GCSEs starting in September 2011. QCA has collaborated with teachers and representatives across the science community, including subject associations and learned societies, to develop the draft criteria for consultation. The draft criteria are designed to make sure all GCSE students develop appropriate scientific knowledge, understanding and skills and support their progression to A levels, other qualifications or employment.Individuals or organisations interested in shaping the content of the criteria for GCSEs in science can contribute their views via the QCA website here:http://www.qca.org.uk/qca_21855.aspx
I have just received this from the National Skills Academy for Nuclear Energy. Their booking form with some further information is attached.
Hi,
Dates up to the end of 2009 are now available for the Energy Foresight programme.
The Energy Foresight programme promotes Science, Engineering, Technology and Mathematics (STEM) in schools by training teachers in the use of the supplied material and funds a relief teacher. The programme is fully funded and therefore does not impact on school funds. The material that the teachers are trained to use is aimed at Key Stage 4 (14 to 16 year olds) and is mapped to the curriculum. For more information, see http://www.nuclear.nsacademy.co.uk/teacher-zone/energy-foresight-programme Regards, Robin TinklerSE/E Regional ManagerNational Skills Academy for Nuclear07500 026 020
I've just received this from Myra Gibbons of Edexcel. If you're thinking of introducing BTECs, this is an opportunity to find out more at a venue close to Kent. They write:-
Dear Colleague
I’m running a free training event in Gillingham in 3 weeks’ time that you might like to come to (details and booking form attached).
In the morning I’m going to cover ‘New to BTEC’:
· generic overview
· delivery
· assessment, and internal/external verification
· where we’re currently up to in terms of the 2010 changes (20 minutes, there are fuller half-day briefings taking place across the country).
This session does not include the actual ‘Assessor Training’ that is part of the approvals process.
I hope that you, or one of your staff can join me on Thursday 25 June for the morning session.
Regards
Myra Gibbons
Edexcel Curriculum and Development Manager (Kent & Medway)
01634 571411
Just in, details of a 'Chemistry of Dentistry' day organised at the University of Greenwich on 23rd June.
Chemistry of Dentistry, 23rd June 2009
This is the latest in a series of events to be held at the University of Greenwich as part of the national project "Chemistry for our future". This is an Aim Higher project aimed at Year 12 students, and encouraging them to consider studying at university.
The day will cover a variety of aspects of the application of chemistry to dentistry, including the chemistry of tooth decay, the preventive role of fluoride, and the repair of teeth with modern plastic materials. There will also be some careers advice available on the subject of studying dentistry at university.
After an opening presentation to introduce the subject, students will carry out various experiments. These include measuring the release of fluoride from toothpaste, and showing how this taken up by tooth mineral. Students will also be able to study the setting of a modern tooth-coloured filling material that sets in blue light. Finally they will take an impression of a tooth using a modern silicone impression material, as used clinically, then use this impression make a model of the tooth from cement. This will allow them to see how artificial materials are used in prosthetic dentistry to make accurate replacements for lost teeth.
Please contact Professor John Nicholson by email (J.W.Nicholson@greenwich.ac.uk) or telephone (0208 331 9965) if you would like further details.