Environmental Science Lessons with VCB Prep

This year the College took part in a Queens University Belfast study investigating the transition from KS2 to KS3 Science.  The project involved a number of pupils from Year 8 and the VCB Prep P.6 taking part in two days of Environmental Science Lessons on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th June.

Thursday began with ice breakers that introduced some of the major concepts of habitats and populations.  The girls then used pooters, hand lenses and keys to identify and study the invertebrates of leaf litter.  There was great success with many centipedes, millipedes, worms, woodlice, beetles and even a newt being found. In the afternoon the group made their way to the school pond to investigate the pond as a habitat and the organisms that live there.

Friday was based in Cranmore Park and kicked off with a scavenger hunt. The girls then completed a variety of tree surveys, including finding the types, heights and ages of the trees present.

All pupils involved completed a survey from Queens University before and after the two days, investigating how much they enjoy Science and if they feel the days will help them with their transition from primary to secondary school. The girls and staff involved had a fantastic time, with many skills being learnt in the process.