Balerno Cluster Transition Project

Background

The transition project was a collaboration between Balerno Community High School, Dean Park, Kirknewton and Ratho Primaries.

This P7/S1 energy project involved the three primaries and the English, Mathematics and Science departments at the secondary school.

Aims To enhance continuity of learning

across primary and secondary To plan a project, taking into

account the principles of Curriculum for Excellence

To identify an interdisciplinary focus that would create opportunities for collaborative working

To raise awareness of environmental issues

Context – Energy House

The learners in primary 7 are challenged to build a model of an energy efficient home.

The models are presented to a member of staff from the secondary for judging.

The project focused on the following key areas:

Science – energy, renewable energy sources, conserving energy, recycling, heat and insulation

Literacy – research and presentation skills

Mathematics – scale, 2D drawings, 3D models, perimeter, area and volume

Partnership working - Process

Beginning in session 2008/09, representatives from each school met to progress the cluster improvement plan focusing on P7/S1 transition. The working party created an interdisciplinary study which would better equip pupils for starting secondary education.

Focus experiences and outcomesBy considering examples where energy is conserved, I can identify the energy source, how it is transferred and ways of reducing wasted energy.SCN 2-04a   Through exploring non-renewable energy sources, I can describe how they are used in Scotland today and express an informed view on the implications for their future use.SCN 2-04b

Science Finding out about what energy is Researching different sources of

renewable energies Finding out different ways energy

conservation can be applied to design of housing

Investigating: heat transference how house design can affect cooling

and heating in a home Different materials and their

insulation properties• Measuring, recording and evaluating

results

Mathematics

•Creating 2D plans•Working with scale•Calculating area and perimeter•Applying understanding of 3D shapes to the creation of models•Understanding surface area and relating this to heat loss

Mathematics and Numeracy OutcomesI can explain how different methods can be used to find

the perimeter and area of a simple 2D shape or volume of a simple 3D object.

MNU 2-11c

 I can use the common units of measure, convert between related units of the metric system and carry out calculations when solving problems.

MNU 2-11b

Having investigated where, why and how scale is used and expressed, I can apply my understanding to interpret simple models, maps and plans.

MTH 2-17d

LiteracyI am developing confidence when engaging

with others within and beyond my place of learning. I can communicate in a clear, expressive way and I am learning to select and organise resources independently.

LIT 2-10a

I recognise the need to acknowledge my sources and can do this appropriately.

LIT 2-25a When listening and talking with others

for different purposes, I can: share information, experiences and

opinions. Explain processes and ideas Identify issues raised and summarise

main points or findings Clarifying points by asking questions or

by asking others to say more.Lit 2-09a.

SkillsResearch, consideration of and acknowledgement of sourcesNote takingListening and talking in groupsPreparing and structuring a presentation

Learning and Teaching approaches

Collaborative group work

Assessment is for learning strategies

Demonstrations of knowledge and understanding through group presentations

Project Evaluation

•Pupils enjoyed and engaged with the challenge•Awareness of environmental and conservation issues was improved•There were issues with time constraints and resources•Refinements of plans

Next Steps and the future

Working with partners and experts to add value e.g. Changeworks and the Renewables RoadshowCelebrate successes in a variety of ways, for example, writing articles for the Balerno NewsIdentifying equipment and CPD needs for teaching investigative skills in scienceInvolvement of the technology department