Showcases / Showcase: Smart pupils learn about electricity
AROUND 650 primary school pupils from across the isles have been learning about energy consumption and renewable energy thanks to an engaging science show laid on by Generation Science and sponsored by energy company Total E&P UK, the operator of the Shetland Gas Plant.
The ‘Smart Grid’ science show discovered how smart grids allow electricity consumption to be switched on and off based on demand, and looked at renewable and non-renewable energy generation.
Using exciting experiments and dynamic demonstrations, pupils uncovered the implications excessive energy consumption can have on our environment.
They also learned how moving magnets past a circuit produces electricity, and about generators and turbines.
The first of the shows got under way at the Nesting Primary School on Monday last week.
Local MSP Tavish Scott sat in on the lesson and said afterwards that “the most exciting way to learn about science is to see it in action.”
He said: “In Shetland, our energy needs are unique and I am sure the Smart Grid show helped pupils understand the importance of a reliable mix of energy sources in the years ahead.”
Head teacher Kate Coutts added: “Smart Grid is an excellent way of engaging children with STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and teaching them about energy consumption and renewable energy resources.”
Smart Grid is one of 15 shows and workshops provided by Generation Science designed to make science fun, exciting, easy to understand and to help teachers cover the school science curriculum.
Generation Science manager Joan Davidson said: “Thanks to our supporters Total E&P UK we were able to spend a week in Shetland this term, educating young learners about the wonder of science and its real world applications.
“Our aim is to improve the provision of science education in Scottish primary schools, bring science to life in the classroom and inform, inspire and engage young learners in science”
The largest science education outreach provider in the UK, Since Generation Science has reached well over one million pupils in Scotland since it began touring over 25 years ago.
This year Generation Science will visit over 600 schools in 31 local authority areas from the Borders to Shetland.
Shetland Gas Plant manager David Wink said: “Supporting initiatives that bring science, technology, engineering and math learning to the classroom is an important part of Total E&P UK’s educational programme.
“Transferring our knowledge through these workshops will help children understand the important role that science plays in our every day lives.
“Promoting such learning is crucial for inspiring tomorrows engineers and towards serving our future energy needs.”
Generation Science is organised by the Edinburgh International Science Festival Foundation.
Total E&P UK Ltd is one of the largest exploration and production subsidiaries of the TOTAL Group. It operates the Alwyn/Dunbar area in the northern North Sea, the Elgin/Franklin area in the central North Sea and the Laggan-Tormore hub in the West of Shetland area.
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