Identifying the ways in which water can be hazardous to human health This activity focuses on the link between water and health. It encourages students to think about the role of engineers in providing us with healthy water supplies and waste-water disposal systems by exploring the different ways in which water can be hazardous (and even fatal) to human health. It’s one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3, supporting the teaching in science. The lesson can be accompanied by the Water pollution and Spreading disease activities. **Activity: Identifying the ways in which water can be hazardous to human **health This activity gives students a quick, engaging introduction to the very real dangers of unclean water. It begins with students viewing our DHMO hazard statement presentation, which playfully lists various dangerous properties of…water! Once students realise that DHMO is simply water, they will view our Safe Drinking Water video which reinforces the very real dangers of water. Students then work in groups to analyse different ways water poses a risk to human health, and the class compiles a list of these hazards for further discussion. Students can also complete our World water quiz worksheet. Download our activity overview for a detailed lesson plan on the dangers of unclean water. The engineering context Engineers play a vital role in making sure that our water is safe to drink. Water is crucial to human life, but it can also be a killer. Drinking or cooking water contaminated with micro-organisms or chemicals is a leading cause of disease and death across the world. Poor facilities for the disposal of sewage and other waste water can quickly lead to the spread of dangerous diseases. Lack of efficient drainage systems and flood defences can lead to catastrophic flooding, as has been seen in several different areas of the world in the past few years. Suggested learning outcomes Once this lesson is complete students will understand that unclean water is the world’s number one killer. They’ll be able to explain that clean water supplies and effective methods of waste-water disposal are essential for human health as well as be able to state the chemical properties of water. Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download (including video clips!), and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Download our classroom lesson plan and presentation below. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation.

Use data on energy consumption to investigate how average values are calculated This scheme of work is designed to enable students to explore the relevant issues of energy cost and efficiency. Learners will use functional mathematics to understand that published facts and figures may not always be accurate, and that mathematical insights are necessary to scrutinise data. In this engaging activity for KS3, students will analyse data related to electricity consumption, with a focus on how average values are determined. Students will also evaluate the accuracy of published data sources and consider potential biases. This resource would work well as a main lesson in maths. This activity uses data for England. Students in Wales, Scotland, or Ireland may wish to research data for their areas. To begin the activity, prompt students to create a list of the various types of housing that individuals reside in. Which type of house is likely to require the most energy? Provide students with the Resource Sheet handout, which displays typical yearly electricity bills for different housing types. Students should collaborate in groups of 2-4 to review and analyse the data, and answer the questions included on the resource sheet. Students should be encouraged to reflect on the meaning of this data rather than just accepting it at face value – can they find raw figures and do the calculations to support the information shown? The engineering context Energy efficiency refers to the use of less energy to perform a specific task or achieve a particular outcome. In other words, it is the ability to accomplish the same level of output using less energy input. Energy efficiency can be achieved through the use of more efficient technologies, equipment, or processes, as well as through changes in behaviour and practices. It is an important concept in the context of sustainable development, as it helps to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, conserve natural resources, and lower energy costs. Examples of energy-efficient practices include using energy-saving light bulbs, improving building insulation, and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this activity students will understand that mathematics is used as a tool in a wide range of contexts, and they will be able to use mathematics to interpret the impact of energy costs on society. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation

Use mathematics to investigate the topical issue of the cost and efficient use of energy This engaging activity for KS3 seeks to teach students how to use mathematics to investigate the topical issue of the cost and efficient use of energy. This is a thought-provoking exercise that will teach students to think about sustainability and develop their understanding of mathematical modelling. In this activity students will investigate the topical issue of the cost and efficient use of energy. Using functional mathematics, they will recognise that published facts and figures are not necessarily accurate and that mathematical insight should be used to probe data. As an optional extension activity, students could quantify how energy is used for heating within a dwelling. The quantification could be in terms of units of energy and/or cost. They could then find comparable data for one or more dwellings of different design, for example of different sizes, of radically different design (e.g. flats vs. detached houses), or dwellings designed to be eco-friendly. They should analyse the differences in energy performance identified. This is a quick and simple activity that will take approximately 15 – 30 minutes to complete. Tools/resources required Projector/Whiteboard The engineering context Energy efficiency refers to the use of less energy to perform a specific task or achieve a particular outcome. In other words, it is the ability to accomplish the same level of output using less energy input. Energy efficiency can be achieved through the use of more efficient technologies, equipment, or processes, as well as through changes in behaviour and practices. It is an important concept in the context of sustainable development, as it helps to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, conserve natural resources, and lower energy costs. Examples of energy-efficient practices include using energy-saving light bulbs, improving building insulation, and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation

Identify the advantages and disadvantages of remote or robotic surgery Telemedicine is a new and fast developing field in healthcare. Even 20 years ago the idea of a surgeon being able to operate a robot from hundreds of miles away in order to perform an operation seemed like science fiction. Today, this is not only possible but engineers, working with scientists and doctors, are now designing robotic systems which will be able to operate on patients with no human intervention at all. Activity info, teachers’ notes and curriculum links In this activity, learners will explore the impact of modern technology on science, using telemedicine and robotics as a context. The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Download the activity sheets for free! All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. And please do share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation

Explore energy transfer and energy efficiency using wind turbines The concept of energy transfer is brought to life in this activity, showing students how the kinetic energy of wind can be harnessed to power homes and businesses. Windmills and wind turbines are based upon the principle of trying to create a shape where air flow causes the maximum possible change in kinetic energy. The hands-on nature of this task, which involves modifying a basic wind turbine to generate electricity, will appeal to students’ curiosity and creativity. This is one of a set of resources developed to support the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within science and design and technology (DT). Tools/resources needed Electric fans Turbines at 5 angles (Most blades can be bought as kits, or partial kits can be purchased where students can build their own blades) Wires Rulers Crocodile clips Voltmeter Ammeter or multimeter Model Generator Activity: Explore energy transfer and energy efficiency using wind turbines This activity gives students the opportunity to explore how the energy efficiency of turbines is directly affected by their design (shape and angle, which can be determined through the study of aerodynamics). The engineering context This activity provides a real-world context, introducing students to the principles of aerodynamics and energy efficiency in engineering design. As they explore how the shape and angle of turbine blades affect energy conversion, they’re learning vital principles relevant to fields such as renewable energy engineering, mechanical engineering, and environmental engineering. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this activity, students should be able to describe how energy is transferred using turbines and explain the importance of efficiency in devices. They will have designed an investigation to determine the relationship between efficiency and turbine design (shape and angle). Students will also have developed critical thinking skills as they control variables and analyse results to improve accuracy. In addition, they’ll gain a broader understanding of renewable energy resources, highlighting the need to develop alternative ways to generate electricity. Download our activity sheet and related teaching resources The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation.

Choosing materials for a new design It is essential that products used in our everyday lives are fit for purpose. To design a product which will be useful to the customer it is important to understand how different products function and why different materials and components are suitable for different applications. With this in mind, students will dismantle an engineering product to help them better understand its construction and function. They will then use this experience to create a test that will help in choosing which materials are fit for purpose when designing a new product. This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3, supporting the teaching in design and technology (DT). The lesson accompanies our Reverse engineering activity, which should ideally be completed before this lesson. Activity: Choosing materials for a new design In this activity students will be given a pair of headphones to dismantle (this must be done carefully, as the headphones will need reassembling afterwards!). Using our Product investigation booklet, students will conduct a product analysis to investigate its construction. They will be asked to create a test that will help manufactures determine if different materials are fit for purpose to aid choosing materials for new designs. The engineering context Engineers may choose to review older products, or competitor products, in order to help them choose materials for certain design or engineering projects. These materials may be the same as what has already been used in what they’ve examined, or the examination may lead them towards producing superior materials. Suggested learning outcomes At the end of this lesson students will be able to effectively dismantle and investigate an engineered product to determine how it was made along with its function/purpose. Download our activity sheet and related teaching resources The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Download our classroom lesson plan and presentation below. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation.

Developing a new design for earphones and headphones In this activity, students will develop a new design for earphones and headphones using reverse engineering. The activity will also teach the importance of fitness for purpose when designing new products. It is essential that products used in our everyday lives are fit for purpose. In order to design a product which will be useful to the customer it is important to understand how different products function and why different materials and components are suitable for different applications. This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3, supporting the teaching in design and technology (DT). It can be used as a starter activity to be followed by our Materials for design lesson. Activity: Developing a new design for earphones and headphones Students will answer a series of questions provided in our worksheet and focus on identifying the target audience for each of these designs, evaluating technology and style, and exploring the balance between form and function. They will also take part in a discussion that relates the design changes to societal and technological advancements and then use what they’ve learned to produce a design of their own, focusing on areas where they’d develop existing technology. The engineering context Engineers might reverse engineer a competitor’s product to understand its strengths, weaknesses, and how it compares to their own offerings. This can help them improve their own designs or develop innovative new features. Sometimes engineers will have to do this using just photographic or video evidence. For example, Ferrari and Mercedes F1 engineers might want to learn how a rival racing team like Red Bull have built their car but they will not be able to closely examine the car itself. They will have to rely on visual evidence for their reverse engineering analysis. It’s important to remember that there are ethical implications related to copying and intellectual property, and therefore reverse engineering should only be used for inspiration and to improve your existing understanding of a particular piece of technology. Suggested learning outcomes At the end of this lesson students will understand the construction and function of an engineered product or system for the purposes of reverse engineering. Download our activity sheet and related teaching resources The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation

What affects the properties of the material in a cast product? In this activity students will explore how changing the ratio of PVA glue to PoP (plaster of Paris) affects the strength of a composite material. They’ll test both tensile and compression strength to find the perfect mix. This activity is part of a series of resources designed to challenge the students by requiring them to apply the knowledge and understanding of engineering materials through a ‘batch’ production experience, including CAD design project , Investigating batch production, and Engineering design processes. It’s one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3, supporting the teaching in engineering and design and technology (D&T). Activity: What affects the properties of the material in a cast product? In this activity students will investigate how the proportion of PVA glue added to plaster of Paris (PoP) affects the properties of the material produced in a cast product. Students will work in pairs to create card moulds. They will then mix different ratios of PVA, PoP, and water, pouring each mixture into duplicate moulds. After the test strips dry overnight, they’ll conduct two types of strength tests: a tensile test (hanging weights) and a compression test (using a G-clamp). They’ll then be tasked with analysing the results to determine how PVA affects the material’s strength. Look for patterns and identify the optimal ratio of PVA to PoP. Finally, decide on the best ratio for your future casting projects and present your findings to the class, using graphs or tables to support your conclusions. Download our activity overview for a detailed lesson plan on CAD design. The engineering context As part of the production process, engineers and designers must test the properties of different materials in order to select the best materials for their products to ensure that they’re suitable (e.g., are they strong enough for the activity that they’ll be used for?). Suggested learning outcomes Students will be able to explain how to develop a product or material to improve the outcome (engineering materials). They’ll also learn how to set up an experiment that allows key decisions to be made from the outcome. Finally, they’ll be able to carry out a manufacturing and testing programme, understanding the importance of time allowance and quality control. Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation.

Using the casting process to make a batch of a product In this activity students will use the casting process to create a small batch of identical products. The lesson is part of a series of resources designed to challenge students by requiring them to apply the knowledge and understanding of engineering materials through a ‘batch’ production experience. It followed on from our CAD design project . Also included in the series are Engineering design processes and Investigating cast products. It’s one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3, supporting the teaching in engineering and design and technology (D&T). Activity: Using the casting process to make a batch of a product In this activity, students will use a prepared mould to create a small batch of identical products through a casting process. Students will mix the casting material (like plaster of Paris), pour it into the moulds, and allow the products to dry. Once complete, they will then carefully remove the products from the moulds. Students will need to record the dimensions of each product to identify any variations and explain why these might have occurred… Download our activity overview for a detailed lesson plan on batch production. The engineering context Casting is a commonly used by engineers as a form of batch production, which is way of manufacturing many different forms of goods in an efficient way on a large-scale offering benefit such as mass production and quality control. Suggested learning outcomes This lesson will teach students how to carry out a basic batch manufacture of a cast product. At the end of the activity, students will be able to describe the advantages of batch production. Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation.

Producing a CAD drawing of a design idea This activity involves using CAD to design a modular product that could be made in batches using the casting process. Students will be tasked with creating a mould that could be used to make this product. The aim of this activity is to design a shape that can be tessellated, have a practical application, and would look aesthetically pleasing as a modular set of products that can lock together. This project is part of a series of resources designed to challenge the students by requiring them to apply the knowledge and understanding of engineering materials through a ‘batch’ production experience. This activity should be followed by Investigating batch production . Also included in the series are Engineering design processes and Investigating cast products. It’s one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3, supporting the teaching in engineering and design and technology (D&T). Activity: Producing a CAD drawing of a design idea In this activity students will design a modular product that could be made in batches using the casting process and create a mould that could be used to make this product. Students will be asked to design a set of identical products that interlock (are modular). The products must be suitable for batch production made by casting and be made from PoP (plaster of Paris). They’ll need to produce sketches of some design ideas and then choose one for modelling using CAD software. Students will next create a card model to test the interlocking feature and aesthetics of their design. After this they can make any necessary adjustments to their CAD drawing, and use use CAD/CAM to create an MDF mould. The engineering context Engineers will use CAD design as part of the process of making products. Items that have been designed this way are also ideal for batch production as they can be easily replicated. This links to industrial practices such as quality control, standardisation, and casting manufacture. Suggested learning outcomes This activity will teach students to analyse a design brief as well as generate ideas for a tessellated product that is suitable for batch manufacture. Students will also learn how to produce a CAD drawing of a design idea. Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation

Developing an understanding of the terms ‘system’, ‘input’, ‘process’, ‘output’ and ‘signal’ This activity aims to develop students’ understanding of key terms such as ‘system’, ‘input’, ‘process’, ‘output’, and ‘signal’, fostering critical thinking and independent investigation skills. Our ‘Time for a Game’ scheme of work offers an engaging electronics context, allowing students to delve into infrared technologies as seen in popular devices like the Nintendo Wii. This lesson plan helps leaners understand the core components that make up the devices they use every day. By learning about systems, inputs, processes, outputs, and signals, they will begin to see the world around them in a new light. This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within maths, science and design and technology (DT). Activity: Developing an understanding of the terms ‘system’, ‘input’, ‘process’, ‘output’ and ‘signal’ In this activity, students will work in pairs to define key terms and identify these features in common products using the ‘Inputs and Outputs of Design’ presentation. They will explore the concept of a system as a collection of parts designed to carry out a function, and learn how inputs activate the system, while outputs are activated by the process. They will also delve into the role of signals in transmitting information between different system blocks. To reinforce this learning, the Wii film will provide a practical example of these concepts at work. The engineering context This lesson plan provides an engaging introduction to engineering principles, as students learn about the components that make up the systems around them. Understanding the inputs, processes, outputs, and signals of a system is foundational to engineering and design. This activity will inspire students to consider a career in engineering, as they gain insights into the creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving involved in designing and understanding complex systems. Suggested learning outcomes Upon completion of this activity, students will have a clear understanding of the difference between input, process, and output in a system and be able to define these terms. They’ll be able to identify these features in common products, enhancing their understanding of the devices and technologies they interact with daily. Download our activity sheet for free! The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download (including film clips!), and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation

In this activity students will make a simple infrared circuit to develop their understanding of this technology. Our “Time for a Game” worksheet introduces students to infrared technologies, using the technology behind the Nintendo Wii as a real-life example. Through building and testing an infrared circuit, students will learn to identify which components are inputs and outputs, a critical skill that deepens their understanding of how electronic systems function and enables them to design more complex circuits in the future. This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within science and design and technology (DT). This can be effectively taught within systems and control, or electronic products approaches within design and technology, or through science with an emphasis on energy, electricity and forces. Activity: Build and test an infrared circuit Students will work in pairs to construct the circuit outlined in the “Time for a Game” worksheet. After building their circuits, they will test their functionality under different conditions and answer key questions about their design. This hands-on approach will allow students to identify the input and output components of the circuit, understand its performance in various lighting conditions, and consider how these factors would influence the design of a Wii controller. The engineering context By building and testing an infrared circuit, students will gain a practical understanding of the engineering process, from conceptualization to testing. Furthermore, this activity will inspire students to consider a career in engineering, as they experience firsthand the creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving that this field entails. Suggested learning outcomes Students will develop a working prototype of an electronic circuit, gaining practical experience in the process. They will learn to identify inputs and outputs in a circuit and test its performance under different conditions. Furthermore, they will have the opportunity to apply their findings to hypothetical design situations, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This activity will teach students the ability to explain how their research findings could affect their design ideas, enhancing their communication skills and technological literacy. Download our activity sheet for free! The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation.

This activity makes students aware that when they watch TV, or use the phone, there is a huge expensive communications infrastructure that needs to be paid for and maintained. Living in a highly technological world, where access to information and entertainment is at our fingertips, the Inform and Entertain Me topic is a gateway to engage and introduce students to the principles and technology that form the basis for communication devices that are used in our everyday lives. It’s one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3, supporting the teaching in science and design & technology (D&T). Activity: Learning about the infrastructure technology that keeps phones, computers and WiFi working This activity gives students an understanding of the technological infrastructure that lets mobile phones and other communication devices connect to one another. Students will first view our infrastructure presentation, which explains the various components needed for communication networks (e.g., cell towers, base stations, cables, etc.). They will then investigate online how mobile phone networks and other communications systems work. Students must create either a flow chart or a diagram that shows how these networks operate, explaining the key steps involved in the process. Download our activity overview for a detailed lesson plan on infrastructure. The engineering context We need a robust infrastructure network if we’re to connect people and businesses regardless of their location. Engineers must work to ensure fast and dependable data transmission for our TV, radio and internet signals – much of which drives the entertainment that we all enjoy. It also underpins communication and data transfer for much of our essential services besides giving us a comfortable standard of living. Suggested learning outcomes In this activity, students will learn about artificial and geostationary satellites and their uses. They’ll make decisions about the use of modern communications technology based on social, environmental, and economic factors. Download our activity sheet and related teaching resources The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Download our classroom lesson plan and presentation and please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation.

In this activity, students will design a fun infrared ‘tag’ game. It ideally needs to be preceded by our input, process and output activity as students must draw on their earlier work for designing the game. It’s one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3, supporting the teaching in engineering and design & technology (D&T). Activity: Designing an infrared ‘tag’ game Students will design a new version of the classic tag game using their electronics knowledge to create a fun interactive experience. Learners will review our design brief to design a novelty “tag” game using emitter and detector circuits (which have been tested previously in input, process and output) to indicate when a player is “tagged”. The game needs to be easy to use and playable both indoors and outdoors. As a class, students will review the key requirements of the brief and discuss these in pairs. They will then draw their design ideas with annotations. From their ideas, they’ll select one design for modelling using 3D CAD software. Finally, they should present their idea to the class for feedback on how it can be improved. Download our activity overview for a detailed lesson plan on designing a fun infrared tag game. The engineering context Infrared technology has been used in the design of all sorts of fun devices, from TV remote controls to Wii remotes, mobile devices, and laser tag games. By understanding how this technology works, learners can start their journey to potential careers in computer games engineering. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this lesson, students will be able to analyse a design brief. They’ll also be able to explain how research findings affect design ides as well as be able to generate ideas for a product. Finally, they’ll be able to produce a 3D CAD model of a design idea. Download our activity sheet and related teaching resources The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Download our classroom lesson plan and presentation and please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation.

Identify which components can be used as electronic sensors The role of smart sensors in our everyday lives is becoming increasingly fundamental. The Smart Sensor Communications topic focuses on what smart sensors are, how they are being used today and how they can be innovative in the future. In this activity, the focus is on how sensors can be used to detect changes in the environment and can be used as part of a monitoring or control system. Activity info, teachers’ notes and curriculum links An engaging starter activity introducing students to the devices that can be used as part of an electrical system to monitor changes, and showing them that the characteristics of a device can vary according to changes in the environment. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Download the free activity sheet! All activity sheets and supporting resources (including film clips!) are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. And please do share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation

Consider ethical and moral issues around new technology This engaging activity allows students to consider the social, ethical and moral issues associated with the development of new technology. The activity offers strong opportunities for cross-curricular work with PSHE, PSE, PSD. This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within science and design and technology (DT). Activity: Consider ethical and moral issues around new technology Students will be divided into groups and given a scenario: the creation of the world’s first entirely autonomous robot surgeon. Some groups, representing the engineers, scientists, and doctors who designed the robot, will argue for the continuation of the project. Other groups, representing patients’ groups and doctors’ unions, will argue against further development due to perceived risks. Using a newspaper article and worksheet as guides, students will formulate robust arguments for their assigned viewpoints. They’ll then pair up and debate the issue, striving to reach a mutually agreed way forward. The engineering context This activity demonstrates how engineers must grapple with not only the technical challenges of designing new technology but also its societal implications. It highlights the importance of considering varying viewpoints and ethical concerns when developing new technologies. Suggested learning outcomes Through this activity, students will gain a deep understanding of what remote surgery entails and the social, ethical, and moral implications of such technological advances. They’ll also learn to appreciate that different groups may have varying perspectives on scientific and technological progress. By engaging in structured debates, students will enhance their analytical skills, learn to articulate their viewpoints persuasively, and develop the ability to negotiate and compromise. Download our activity sheet for free! The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download (including film clips!), and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation

Argue for and against different technological products The ‘Who’s the winner’ scheme of work provides students with an opportunity to collect data which they can use as evidence to debate whether people should be encouraged to engage in computer-based sport activities. This activity provides a context for the scheme, by focusing on the wider issues relating to society and health. It helps set the scene for the ‘question of sport’ unit of activities by providing a ‘big picture’ in relation to the connection between society and health and the development of new technologies. Activity info, teachers’ notes and curriculum links An engaging activity which allows students to explore social, ethical, economic and health issues relating to the Nintendo Wii and present their findings in a persuasive, coherent and focussed argument. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Download the free activity sheet! All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. And please do share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation

Learn how mathematicians predict UK’s future water usage In this activity students will explore water consumption by looking at mathematical modelling and its real-world application in predicting water usage. Students will estimate their daily water consumption, interpret complex data, and apply their mathematical skills to understand why water usage is a significant issue. This is one of a set of resources developed to support the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within maths, science and design & technology (DT). This lesson plan follows on from Water Conservation and continues the theme of water usage developed in the Sewage Tunnels activity but can be delivered independently should the teacher wish. Activity: Comparing water usage within the UK to that of other countries In this activity, students start by estimating their daily water usage. They then delve into complex data from the Environment Agency, interpreting different scenarios and their potential impact on future water requirements. Students will develop their own spreadsheet tool, inspired by the one on the Southern Water website, to help others estimate their water usage. They’re encouraged to improve upon the existing tool and even write to the Water Board with their suggestions. Download our activity overview, presentation and worksheet for a detailed lesson plan for teaching students about water consumption. We also have a class quiz. The engineering context This activity highlights the intersection of mathematics, science, policy-making, and engineering in addressing real-world problems. By engaging in this activity, students will understand how engineers use mathematical models to predict future scenarios and develop solutions for sustainable water usage. They’ll see first-hand how engineering can make a significant impact on society and the environment. Suggested learning outcomes This lesson plan is designed to equip students with the ability to analyse and interpret a wide range of data, understand the application of mathematical modelling in real-world situations, and use their mathematical knowledge to review, recreate, and improve presented information. Students will also gain insights into the importance of water conservation and the challenges in meeting increasing water demands. Download our activity sheet for free! The lesson plan includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity worksheets and supporting lesson plan resources are free to download (including film clips!), and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation

Compare water usage within the UK to that of other countries In this engaging activity students will examine the link between water usage at home and the number of people living in their household, as well as comparing the water usage within the UK to that of other countries. It involves estimating personal daily water usage, interpreting complex data, and understanding how different lifestyles impact water usage. It’s a great opportunity for students to apply their mathematical and analytical skills to real-world problems. This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within maths, science and design & technology (DT). This lesson plan continues the theme of water usage developed in the Sewage Tunnels activity but can be delivered independently should the teacher wish. There is also a follow-on Water Consumption activity. Activity: Comparing water usage within the UK to that of other countries Students must estimate how much water they use each day and apply their mathematical understanding to interpret a wide range of complex data to develop their appreciation of why water usage is such an important issue. The resource ‘Water consumption’ is also available as an extension activity. Download our activity overview, presentation and worksheet for a detailed lesson plan for teaching students about water conservation. We also have a class quiz. The engineering context Students will learn how engineers use mathematical modelling to predict and address issues related to water usage and conservation. By demonstrating how engineering can be used to solve real-world problems, students will see the relevance and importance of their mathematical studies. Suggested learning outcomes Upon completion of this activity, students will have enhanced their ability to analyse and interpret a broad range of data. They will gain a deeper understanding of how mathematical modelling is used in real-world scenarios to predict outcomes and solve problems. Additionally, by reviewing, recreating, and possibly improving the mathematical information presented by a Water Board, students will significantly boost their mathematical understanding and application skills. Download our activity sheet for free! The lesson plan includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation

Consider history of energy sources and their pros and cons This lesson plan is designed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the changing use and types of energy sources over time. It’s an engaging resource that delves into how and why the variety of energy sources used domestically have evolved, offering a broader context for understanding the development of new types of energy sources and the factors propelling these changes. Taking a journey through history, learners will see the evolution of energy sources, from primitive times to the present day. They’ll consider the advantages and disadvantages of different energy types and how technology and societal needs have influenced their adoption. This exploration will provide them with a foundation to understand the importance of new energy sources and the complexities involved in their development. This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within science, maths and design and technology (DT). Activity: Considering the history of different types of energy sources and their pros and cons In this activity, students will create a timeline showcasing the development and implementation of a specific energy source. They’ll start by brainstorming different types of energy sources used throughout history, then discuss how these sources are used in homes. Each team will research their allocated energy source, noting key points in its development, what made it popular, and factors that made it less desirable. The engineering context Every new energy source represents a triumph of engineering – a solution to a problem, an improvement on what came before. This activity will show students how engineers have shaped our energy landscape throughout history. By understanding the challenges and triumphs in developing new energy sources, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the field of engineering and may be inspired to become the problem solvers of the future. Suggested learning outcomes By participating in this activity, students will gain the ability to illustrate how mankind’s energy sources have evolved over time. They’ll understand the factors that necessitated and facilitated the change in our energy sources, and why some alternative sources were adopted faster than others. This comprehensive understanding will enable them to appreciate the complexities of developing new energy sources, and the economic and environmental considerations involved. Download our activity sheets for free! All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation