This Mathematics Matters case study, from the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications, looks at how mathematical network theory helps to improve connections for global transport, internet and telephony networks. Modern society relies heavily on a variety of networks, but we don’t fully understand how they...

This series of five one-hour lessons covers computer networks at secondary-school level. The objectives of the lessons are:

• Describe what a network is, the difference between a LAN and a WAN and identify three network topologies.
• Describe pieces of hardware that are needed in a network.
...

A scheme of work which although aimed at the upper end of Key Stage 2, is also suitable for delivery at the bottom end of Key Stage 3. The scheme contains a whole host of unplugged and plugged activities surrounding networks and communications, including the difference between the internet and the world wide web,...

This paper published in 2011 presents a case for extending partnership models of science teacher development in the UK through establishing a more formal networks of schools, universities and science learning centres. It uses social capital theory to argue that teacher learning is not simply about cognitive...

A study published in 2012 showed that possessing greater general knowledge about the brain does not appear to protect teachers from believing in “neuromyths” – misconceptions about neuroscience research in education. A study in Frontiers in Psychology found that teachers who are interested in the application of...

Using this resource students can develop an understanding of the structure and function of neurons via a series of different activities. These range from simplistic labelling of neurons and building a model motor neuron to constructing an electronic 3D simulation game that mimics brain activity. There are also...

These diagnostic questions and response activities (contained in the zip file) support students in being able to:

• Explain the appearance of bubbles when bicarbonate of soda reacts with vinegar.
• Explain what happens when an acid appears to ‘eat away’ a material.
• Suggest evidence that...

This resource produced by Siemens introduces the technology used to protect public health in smart buildings by way of an interactive online game.

A series of worksheets introduce viruses and bacteria and other activities allow students to model the spread of pathogens using glitter on their hands and...

This activity from the Science upd8 explores the science and ethics of face transplants. How are the operations performed, and why must recipients take drugs to suppress their immune system for the rest of their lives? Who deserves face transplants? Just those who have suffered in accidents or those who simply feel...

A case study from the Engineering snd Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) which looks at how MP3 players and 4G mobile phones could be more energy efficient thanks to a versatile microprocessor, developed as part of a project funded by EPSRC at the University of Edinburgh. Designed using a new automated...

From the Chilled Food Association, this resource helps students to think about the development of a new food product. The materials are aimed at STEM ambassadors but they can readily be adapted for use by teachers in the classroom.

The materials consist of a lesson plan, stimulus materials and suggested...

This activity, from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), allows students to compare old and new technologies (railway five-pointer telegraph against the SMS message) to experience how significant the advances in technology have been. The nature of...