Summaries

21/3/2010

In Term 1, we covered several topics, such as measurements, how to use basic laboratory equipment, qualities of a good scientist and units.

I enjoyed tinkering with the equipment very much, as in primary school we were only allowed to watch. The science labs are much larger than the one at my old school, and I was surprised at the amount of new an unfamiliar equipment. I think that the lessons on being a good scientist benefited me, and that the lessons learnt will help my in my projects and regular lessons.

I was introduced to the vernier calipers and the micrometer screw gauge while learning measurements, and I had great fun working with my partner to use them. I learnt to present my results correctly (eg.1 decimal place) and how to work with a zero error. I was slower at learning units, as I had used the same ones for years, and it was difficult for me to change my mindset and to convert my results.

Term 1 was extremely educational and beneficial for me, and I hope to do more in Term 2.

Kenneth Pay (1i1/20)

13/6/2010

In Term 2, we learnt about the classification of matter, the difference between elements, compounds and mixtures and seperation techniques.

For classification of matter, we learnt about the atomic arrangements of solids, liquids and gases and how it affects their properties. For example, a solid's atoms are tightly packed together, so it is not compressible. We also learnt about the kinetic theory of matter and why every molecule is in continuous and random motion. The demonstration was very helpful and I understood it much better after it.

For elements, compounds and mixtures, we learnt about the differences between them and why we use them. Elements are molecules made up of a single type of atom eg.iron. Mixtures are molecules made up of two or more types of atoms eg. water. Neither elements nor mixtures can be separated through physical means. Mixtures are made up of two or more elements but they can be separated through physical means eg.sand and water. We mainly use mixtures as they take the good qualities of the elements that make them eg.steel.

We also learnt separation techniques such as filtration, where we used a filter funnel, an evaporating dish and a bunsen burner to separate salt, sand and water. Even though me and my partner made many errors, we did it in the end and we had a lot of fun.

Kenneth Pay (1i1/20)

5/9/10

In Term 3, we learnt about animal and plant cells, diffusion and osmosis, digestion and thermal energy.

For animal and plant cells, we learnt about their properties and all the separate parts that make up one cell. I enjoyed the videos that we watched to help enforce our knowledge, and I got more interested in cells after watching. We also learnt about division of labour, and I think that there is something for us to learn as well.

For diffusion and osmosis, we learnt about their practical uses through group activities, where we worked together to form a presentation. I particularly enjoyed the "bouncy egg" experiment as I had never seen anything like it before and it was interesting how the egg became turgid through osmosis.

For digestion, we covered the topic much more thoroughly than in Primary school, and I learnt that there are actually many more parts comprising the digestive system than I had thought, such as the pancreas.

For thermal energy, we learnt more about conductors and insulators, and how heat travels through radiation. I think that it is interesting how only some materials can transmit heat, and how cold air travels downwards.

Term 3 was a fascinating experience for me, and I hope to continue learning more about these topics next term.

Kenneth Pay (1i1/20)