Sandfield Park

Alder Centre for Education

KS3 Class

KS3 Timetable 2024/25

This term, students in KS3 have been developing their understanding of programming through Scratch, a block-based visual programming language. They have mastered:

Sequencing – ordering instructions correctly to control how a program runs.

Variables – creating and using variables to store and change data.

Selection (if/else statements) – making decisions to execute different code blocks based on whether a condition is true or false.

Pupils have been able to predict, modify and create programs with variables and if else statements. They have developed their ability to think like programmers by breaking problems into steps and testing their ideas through code. Well done KS3!

Enrichment Visit – Food for Thought Community Garden

KS3 pupils enjoyed a visit to the Community Garden in Everton to take part in some outdoor activities involving food. The young people made bird feeders and pizzas. Whilst we were there we spotted some Newts and some of the young people held them – the staff weren’t so brave!

Year 8 Magnetism

Who doesn’t love Magnetism?

In this exciting unit, Year 8 students embarked on a fascinating journey into the world of magnetism! We explored the fundamental concepts of magnetic poles, understanding how like poles repel and opposite poles attract. Through hands-on experiments, we learned to visualize magnetic fields by drawing field lines, observing the patterns created by iron filings.

But the learning went beyond textbooks! We embraced creativity by using Magna-Tiles to construct a variety of imaginative and intricate designs, demonstrating a deeper understanding of magnetic forces and their applications.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Scientific Inquiry: Observing, questioning, and investigating magnetic phenomena.
  • Data Analysis: Interpreting and analyzing data related to magnetic fields.
  • Creative Thinking: Designing and constructing models using magnets.
  • Communication: Explaining magnetic concepts clearly and concisely.
  • Teamwork: Collaborating with peers during experiments and design challenges.

This engaging unit fostered a deeper understanding of magnetism while cultivating essential scientific and creative skills