This Catalyst article is about using computer models which use natural selection to evolve new products. Computers can be used to simulate evolution showing how some species die out and how others evolve and thrive. Products used by humans in everyday activities also evolve and this article describes how their...

In this activity from the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) students perform calculations and apply formulae to a spreadsheet of data collected by a data logger, in order to determine how many visitors to an aquarium at any one time.

The resource includes a presentation and teacher guidance.

This report from Ofsted looks at the provision for excluded pupils. Schools and local authorities are required to provide full-time and suitable education for pupils from day six of fixed-period and permanent exclusions. This survey evaluates the extent to which a sample of schools and local authorities were...

Students who play with objects, listen to music or find other...

This resource from Siemens consists of an interactive online game and some curriculum linked extension resources.  The activities inform students, aged 11 to 16, about various features of the climate crisis and then challenges them to draw all the information together to form an overall view. 

In the game...

Written in 2009 by the Department for Children, Schools and families, this resource sets out the government's support for behaviour in schools at that time.

This STEMNET resource describes the background and career of STEM Ambassador Chris Robbins, a design engineer and Director of a small independent consultancy.

Chris uses maths to help companies solve problems by developing mathematical models and associated software to help select appropriate materials and...

Nuffield Secondary Design and Technology guides for Key Stage Four provide a straightforward way for students to become familiar with the sorts of questions they should ask when designing for a particular focus area. The design guides can act as a stimulus for students who are having difficulty in deciding on a...

The Nuffield Design Hexagon for Key Stage Four covers the design strategies that students need to consider be successful at designing products that meet the needs and wants of people in real life situations. Design Hexagons have been developed for each focus area: electronic products, food technology, graphic...

This resource focusses on learners designing a robot to act as an assistant referee during a game of football on the Moon. They will consider the challenges associated with playing football on the Moon and the duties of an assistant referee. Students will produce a labelled sketch of their idea to meet a set of...

Magnetism is a key scientific phenomenon. Utilising this has allowed designers to create new and innovative products, such as fully working MAGLEV trains and hoverboards.

This resource focusses on designing a hoverboard that works using magnetism and magnetic field.

This activity, from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), requires students to design a magnetic tool holder for a robot surgeon.

It is intended that students will:
• Appreciate the potential of...

In this activity, aimed at secondary-aged pupils, the students will design a new carriage that is powered by electricity for the King’s coronation. They will consider the design brief and criteria for the carriage before sketching and...

In this resource, students design a new glove for use in a sport of their choice. Students may find it helpful to talk with local people who partake in their chosen sport. The P.E. Department may be able to suggest suitable contacts.

A selection of tests, activities and factsheets are available for the...

From Practical Action, this resource is an eco-tool used to compare the sustainability of two products or design ideas.