Mini-Mechanics
Not Applicable for Early Years
Australian Curriculum
Learning Outcome Links
The outcomes listed below are some of many we have aligned with this workshop.
Science Understanding
ES1
Objects are made of materials that have properties ACSSU003
The way objects move depends on a variety of factors, including their size and shape ACSSU005
S1
Everyday materials can be physically changed in a variety of ways ACSSU018
Different materials can be combined for a particular purpose ACSSU031
Earth’s resources are used in a variety of ways ACSSU032
A push or a pull affects how an object moves or changes shape ACSSU033
S2
Natural and processed materials have a range of physical properties that can influence their use ACSSU074
Forces can be exerted by one object on another through direct contact or from a distance ACSSU076
S3
Changes to materials can be reversible or irreversible ACSSU095
Science as a Human Endeavour
ES1
Science involves observing, asking questions about, and describing changes in, objects and events ACSHE013
S1
Science involves observing, asking questions about, and describing changes in, objects and events ACSHE021 & ACSHE034
People use science in their daily lives, including when caring for their environment and living things ACSHE022 & ACSHE035
S2
Science involves making predictions and describing patterns and relationships ACSHE050 & ACSHE061
Science knowledge helps people to understand the effect of their actions ACSHE051 & ACSHE062
S3
Science involves testing predictions by gathering data and using evidence to develop explanations of events and phenomena and reflects historical and cultural contributions ACSHE081 & ACSHE098
Scientific knowledge is used to solve problems and inform personal and community decisions ACSHE083 & ACSHE100
Critical reflection Prompts
How did my own experiences and knowledge influence my understanding and actions of this workshop and activities experienced?
How did I acknowledge and provide opportunities for the needs, perspectives, and opinions of the children in this workshop and interactions?
Is this an experience that I could extend upon?
Is there an area of knowledge I need to extend upon as an educator to further the experience for the children?
Was every child supported to participate in the workshop?
Did every child have the opportunity to work independently or collaboratively within the workshop?
My Time Our Place
Learning Outcome Links
The outcomes listed below are some of many we have aligned with this workshop.
Outcome 2: Children are connected and contribute to their world.
Children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities and an understanding of the reciprocal rights and responsibilities necessary for active community participation.
Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners.
Children develop a range of skills and processes such as problem solving, enquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating.
Children transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another.
Children resource their own learning through connecting with people, place, technologies and natural and processed materials.
Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators.
Children interact verbally and non-verbally with others for a range of purposes.
Children engage with a range of texts and gain meaning from these texts.
Children begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work.
National Quality Standards
Outcome Links
Quality Area 1.1.3
Quality Area 1.2.2
Quality Area 1.2.3
Quality Area 1.3.3
Quality Area 3.2.2
Critical reflection Prompts
How did my own experiences and knowledge influence my understanding and actions of this workshop and activities experienced?
How did I acknowledge and provide opportunities for the needs, perspectives, and opinions of the children in this workshop and interactions?
Is this an experience that I could extend upon?
Is there an area of knowledge I need to extend upon as an educator to further the experience for the children?
Was every child supported to participate in the workshop?
Did every child have the opportunity to work independently or collaboratively within the workshop?
Mini Mechanics
Risk Assessment
Hazard: Tools and Equipment
Risk: Children could be injured while using tools or handling parts during the billy-kart construction.
Control Measures:
Provided age-appropriate tools and ensured they were used under close supervision.
Explained safe handling procedures and demonstrated proper use of tools.
Monitored children closely during construction activities and provided assistance as needed.
Person Responsible: Workshop facilitators and supervising adults.
Risk Likelihood: Low, with proper supervision and safety measures in place.
Hazard: Racing Accidents
Risk: Children could collide or fall while racing their billy-karts, leading to potential injuries.
Control Measures:
Designed a safe and controlled racing area with clear boundaries and soft surfaces.
Provided helmets and protective gear for all participants.
Supervised races closely and intervened if unsafe behaviour was observed.
Person Responsible: Workshop facilitators and supervising adults.
Risk Likelihood: Moderate, with appropriate safety measures and supervision.
Hazard: Small Parts (e.g., nuts, bolts)
Risk: Small parts from the billy-kart construction could pose a choking hazard if not handled correctly.
Control Measures:
Ensured all small parts were age-appropriate and safe for use.
Supervised children closely and provided clear instructions on proper handling.
Conducted regular checks to ensure no small parts were left unattended.
Person Responsible: Workshop facilitators and supervising adults.
Risk Likelihood: Low, with appropriate supervision and safety measures.
Hazard: Physical Activity
Risk: Children could slip, trip, or fall during physical activities related to billy-kart racing.
Control Measures:
Ensured the activity area was free from obstacles and hazards.
Provided clear instructions on safe movement and behaviour during races.
Monitored children closely and provided assistance if needed.
Person Responsible: Workshop facilitators and supervising adults.
Risk Likelihood: Moderate, with proper supervision and a safe environment.
Last Reviewed August 2024
Regular monitoring and supervision by trained staff or educators are essential to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of all participants during the workshop. Risk likelihood is assessed based on the probability of occurrence and potential severity of each risk.
Please list additional risks/hazards and/or considerations specific for your centre.