In this resource students will carry out experiments with prisms, polarising film and 3D cinema glasses to explain some of the interesting properties of light and their applications.
Light from light bulbs allows us to see at night, light from the sun provides plants with energy and light from a computer screen lets you to surf the internet. But there are many more properties of light that people make use of than just the ability to provide us with sight and energy. This activity should take approximately 1 hour, however allow more time if you are going to complete the extensions.
The image of an engineer that students often have in their heads is one of a person (normally a man) working in a hard hat.
Engineering is so much more than that. Engineering is the designing, testing, manufacturing and improving of products to do something useful. It is the application of science, maths and creative skills to achieve a goal.
Photonics engineers create and improve systems and products that use light to function. The main purpose of the photonics engineering field is to develop new and innovative products for the medical field, telecommunications, manufacturing, and construction.
From light that can cut plastic, to ultra-accurate lasers used in delicate eye surgeries, photonics engineers are responsible for some very big scientific leaps and bounds.
Resources
Creating captivating cornflour invites pupils to discover the properties of this curious material in a fun, but often messy activity.
Engineering enables: running blades explores the forces in moving systems and materials, in the context of designing a prosthetic limb
The right switch: discover Quantum Tunnelling Composite and technical textiles. As we invest in more mobile technology, we run the risk of bulging pockets and heavy handbags. This activity looks at finding a solution to this problem.
Moving house: investigating earthquakes and building materials. Did you know that buildings move? What happens to buildings in an earthquake or strong wind?
How is food packaged? Introducing thermochromatic paints and their application.
Smart muscle
Introducing ideas about keeping materials and tools cool in space.
As we try to use more renewable sources of energy and reduce our use of fossil fuels, it is important to ensure that electricity gets to us in an easy but efficient way
Cycling grows in importance as we look towards sustainable transport to save energy.
Milking it: Many products bought today are made from or contain plastic. How is it made, and what applications does it have?
Explore the role of STEM in how we hear sounds, record and play back music
Learn how sensor systems (motes) can be used to monitor the environment outside an aircraft.
This resource is designed to help students learn about the STEM involved in designing and making their own hovercraft.
Making waves explores how engineers have applied their knowledge of waves to make life better.
This equation impacts our lives in many areas, from computing to the shape of a football.
A STEM learning and teaching resource that shows how engineers have applied their knowledge to improve the security of the internet.
Explore a variety of magical maths activities, from multiplication tips to card tricks.
Are we connected? is a STEM teaching and learning resource that explores engineering through the technology we communicate and connect with.
Light Saver is a STEM resource that explores new technology developed by scientists and engineers that uses the properties of light to help save lives.
Power Up! looks at different types of energy, energy in engineering, the importance of electricity and how it is generated. It investigates different types of renewable energy sources through a number of hands-on practical activities.
Design our trophy