Resources by Science upd8

Making Rain

Can we solve the problem of summer water shortages by making rain? In this Science upd8 activity students learn about the significance of droplet size in natural rain formation. They then look at Chinese experiences of 'cloud seeding' before annotating a graphic to show how it works.

Mobiles for Kids?

This Science upd8 resource examines what proof there is that mobile telephones are harmful. Policy makers usually follow the precautionary principle. They issue warnings at the first hint of danger. Should we take their advice? In this discussion activity, students judge the risks and the strength of the evidence...

New Faces

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...

New Womb?

US doctors are planning the world's first ever womb transplant. In this Science upd8 activity, students become an NHS ethics and funding committee. They consider ethical arguments and decide whether or not the NHS should fund non-vital transplants, like those of wombs, hands and faces.

One of Our Scientists Is Missing

This Science upd8 activity offers an opportunity to test students' understanding of the solar system, and their skills as independent enquirers, problem solvers and effective communicators. Students are part of an earth-bound team set the task of interpreting a range of data relating to the solar system/universe....

Piggiflu is Coming

A simulation from Science upd8 that looks at how a viral disease spreads in a model population (the school). It is interactive, relevant and involves large numbers of students. There is the potential for family involvement. The simulation continues for around 5 days, after which students can use ICT to analyse the...

Pirates Treasure Mystery

This Science upd8 activity is inspired by the film Pirates of the Caribbean. What are the contents of the treasure chest? What metal is the key made of? What happened to the treasure after decades under the sea?

Planet Hunter

The Science upd8 activity set in the context of the universe. Earlier missions failed to find life on other planets. Is it still worth looking? Can we justify the expense of the search for extra terrestrial intelligence? Students will be deciding just how likely intelligent life elsewhere in the galaxy is.

Pluto: a Planet No More

In this Science upd8 resource students study data on planets, dwarf planets and moons before devising their own criteria for classifying a solar system body. They examine the reasons for the relegation of Pluto. 

Please note this resource was written in 2006.

Polar Bears in Trouble

In this Science upd8 activity students take on the role of a trainee documentary producer working for an environmental channel. The television programme scenario, ‘Bears in Trouble’, explores how rising temperatures in the Arctic could be endangering the survival of polar bears. Polar bears seem perfectly adapted...