New Suite of Resources- Plants and Science for 11-14 students

How can pupils be encouraged to see the connections between the sciences? How can they lay the foundation for a synoptic understanding of key scientific concepts?

In this innovative suite of resources, we cover key topics in biology, physics and chemistry, through the themes of plant evolution and adaptation. This collection of resources is designed to support science teaching at key stage 3 and similar curricula for 11-14 year olds.  

The resources involve a mixture of independent investigations, engaging and hands-on practicals, and activities to identify misconceptions and strengthen understanding. Teachers can opt to include as many or as few of the resources from the collection as they like. Each resource includes a full students' sheet, and technical and teaching notes.

Download the resources

Bubbling pondweed under threat?

Cabomba, our pondweed of choice for demonstrating photosynthesis, is getting increasingly hard to source, as a result of upcoming new regulations on the importation of invasive non-native species to the UK. You may need to shop around and try pet shops and aquatic suppliers to obtain some.

SAPS, CLEAPSS and SSERC are working to find a native alternative that will bubble as reliably as Cabomba. If you've got any alternative suggestions, please let us know.

Cabomba is a tropical pondweed and so very unlikely to survive outside in the UK. However, please remember to dispose of all non-native species appropriately: be plant wise!

Summer School Opportunities - one for you, one for your Yr 12s

If you enjoy reading this newsletter, you love biology and you teach post-16 biology students, then the Gatsby Plant Science Summer School is the ideal CPD for you. Over 4 days in Yorkshire, you’ll hear some inspirational scientists on topics relating to the biology curriculum, plus take part in Lab practicals. It’s a unique chance to take current science directly from the Lab bench to the classroom. The Summer School is funded by a generous ENTHUSE bursary for eligible schools.

And give your Yr 12 students an opportunity to try contemporary science for themselves, with the Nottingham University Summer School in Crop and Food Sciences, organised by our good friends at the University of Nottingham.  If you’ve got a student with a strong interest in biology, this would make an excellent opportunity for them to add to their personal statement.

Bog orchids give off human body odours to lure mosquitos

Is the whiff in your classroom the result of 30 teenagers in the throes of puberty - or something altogether more decorative?

An American bog orchid appears to lure in its pollinator – the tiger mosquito – by giving off human body odours. The ecologists suggest that this could form the basis of mosquito traps. For those with a tolerant nose, presumably.

Find out more