Welcome to The Living Things School Circuit
Discovering the Wonders of the Natural World!
Embark on an Exciting Exploration of Living Things-themed Activities and STEM Education! Are you ready to delve into the fascinating world of living organisms and their environments? Join us for an enlightening experience designed for primary school students as we explore the wonders of living things in our Living Things School Circuit!
Discover the Intricacies of Living Organisms and Their Habitats
What makes bugs so unique? How do living things interact with their environment? How can we care for and protect them? These are just some of the questions we'll explore in this engaging STEM activity. Through hands-on experiments and interactive learning, children will uncover the mysteries of living organisms and gain a deeper understanding of their importance in our ecosystem.
Hands-On Exploration and Experiments
Live Bugs Meet and Greet:Â Participants will be introduced to a variety of live bugs, including millipedes, cockroaches, scorpions, centipedes, tarantulas, and stick insects. They will have the opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close, learning about their habitats, behaviours, and unique characteristics. Knowledgeable staff members will be on hand to answer questions and facilitate interactions with the bugs.
DIY Insect Hospitals:Â At this station, attendees will create bug hospitals to care for injured or sick insects. Using materials such as cardboard, tape, rubber bands, and dead leaves/sticks collected from the school grounds, participants will construct miniature hospitals with compartments for different types of bugs. They will learn about the importance of providing a safe and comfortable environment for bugs in need of care.
Microscopic Understanding:Â Participants will engage in hands-on exploration with microscopes at this station. They will examine various living specimens, such as insects, plant parts, and microorganisms, to discover details that are invisible to the naked eye. Guided by instructors, they will learn how to focus the microscope and identify different structures and features within the specimens.
Creating Weather-Resistant Mini Houses:Â Here, participants will be challenged to design and build weather-resistant mini houses for bugs. Using mini bricks, matchsticks, and paper straws, they will construct sturdy shelters that can withstand different weather conditions. Emphasis will be placed on creativity, functionality, and consideration of bug needs.
Caterpillar & Millipede Walks:Â At the "Walk Like a Bug" station, teams of participants will embark on a fun and educational challenge to simulate the movements and behaviours of bugs. They will navigate walking together, making the fabric move while mimicking the locomotion of a caterpillar or a millipede. This activity will promote teamwork, problem-solving, and physical coordination.
Integrating Learning Objectives
The Living Things School Circuit seamlessly integrates with the Australian Curriculum and the My Time Our Place (MTOP) framework, ensuring that each activity aligns with educational standards while fostering holistic development. This workshop is designed to spark curiosity and enhance understanding, making it an ideal choice for teachers and educators seeking to enrich their science curriculum.
Circuit Inclusions:
1 x 2 hour Hands on Circuit
1 x STEM Presenter per 60 students
Take home STEM projects
Resources for all booked students
1 x Risk Assessment
1 x PDF Educator Resource (includes Snapshot of workshop, Analysis of Learning, Follow on activity ideas and MTOP, Australian Curriculum and the NQF)
Workshop Requirements
Access to an electrical power outlet
Access to tables and chairs
Chair for presenter
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Suitable for ages:
This workshop is suitable for 5-12 years.
Why Choose Beyond the Beanstalk?
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Expert Guidance:
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Benefit from our 20 years of experience in delivering exceptional educational programmes.
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Hands-On Exploration:
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Our workshops offer engaging, hands-on activities that foster STEM learning in a fun and interactive way.
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Comprehensive Support:
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Educators receive all necessary resources and support to facilitate learning and ensure a seamless workshop experience.