The impact of pollution was the theme explored by students from St. Paul’s Catholic High School in Wythenshawe, who took part in an Environmental Science Week, a celebration of the physical, chemical and biological processes that take place on the Earth.
The objective of the week was for Year 7 pupils to study the causes and impact of pollution on nature during the week full of activities. The pupils were able to link some of the practical skills that they had learned in their classes to the ‘real world’ and potential careers they could pursue. The lessons included exciting practical lessons, looking at acid rain and testing soils for acidity and testing for nitrates.
The Year 7 environmental scientists worked hard to find out what is causing fish to die in a local lake by investigating causes of acid rain, the pH of different soils and the harm that fertilisers can do to all life in ponds and lakes.
Charlotte Dewhurst, Lead Practitioner of Science, said: “The week’s programme aimed to inspire the next generation of scientists with fun and participative activities. The activities highlighted how science relates to our everyday lives. There were lots of exciting activities happening throughout our school. We are very keen to inspire and engage the students in the wonder and excitement of science.”
“The unit of work is interleaved with revision of the Matter, Organisms, Energy and Ecosystems topics, there was lots of practical work and exploration of the role of Environmental Scientists working in the field and the laboratory.”
Mr Stephen McMahon, Head of Science, added: “The activities were great fun and very popular with the students. The sessions helped the students see how Science can be applied in real life.”
Head Teacher Mike Whiteside said: “Science is vital to the future of our country and involvement in projects such as this are a great way for us to encourage our students to enjoy the subjects and see them as both interesting and accessible. We need to do everything we can to inspire the next generation.”