Hands-on Minds-on Learning is an educational method that emphasizes active participation in learning. It incorporates tactile and physical activities with cognitive processes to enhance knowledge acquisition and retention. This strategy ensures that learners are both physically and mentally engaged during the learning process.
To cultivate a sense of agency and encourage children to make independent creative choices in art, teachers and parents can adopt several effective strategies. First, it is crucial to establish a supportive environment in the classroom where children feel safe and confident to explore different artistic methods and materials without fear of making mistakes.
Mould and cast fossils are created through a process that begins after the death of an animal or plant. When the organism dies, its remains start to decay. If the remains are quickly covered by sand, earth, rock, or submerged in the seabed before decomposition is complete, a mould fossil can form. Over a significant period of time, the bones disintegrate, leaving behind a cavity in the surrounding material. This cavity acts as a mould that is later filled with sediment, forming the cast fossil. Eventually, natural erosion processes, such as weathering or sea movements, expose these fossils on the surface for discovery and study.
Human activities pose significant threats to the polar regions, with far-reaching consequences for the environment. One major threat is overfishing, as fishing on a large scale in the Arctic and Southern Oceans has led to a drastic decline in fish populations. This disrupts the natural food chain, affecting the animals that rely on fish for sustenance. Additionally, the introduction of new species into polar regions can have devastating effects on the local biodiversity by increasing the risk of introducing harmful diseases that could devastate native animal populations.
To foster and maintain a positive attitude towards reading and comprehension, students can employ several effective strategies. Engaging with a diverse array of literary forms such as fiction, non-fiction, poetry, plays, and textbooks helps broaden understanding and appreciation. By exploring books with different structures and purposes, students deepen their knowledge from folklore to contemporary works and contributions to literary heritage.
If you're looking to engage your students in a dynamic exploration of rocks, fossils, and soils, our tailored science activities are designed to captivate young minds and foster a deep understanding of geology. Our meticulously crafted lessons offer a hands-on approach to learning, guiding students through the intricate world of earth sciences with interactive experiments and engaging discussions.
Hands-On Education is an education resources company committed to making primary education fun and engaging for students both in school and home education. We offer a range of key stage one activities covering various subjects that support parents and teachers in developing a pupils' understanding and knowledge throughout the entire national curriculum for England. The article below is written in question and answer format and covers ideas and lessons that go beyond what Hands-On Education currently offer. We hope you find inspiration and further your understanding of the geography, history, music, and art within castles.
At Hands-On Education, we believe that it's important to focus on child development as well as curriculum understanding. This article explores key stage 2 in the English national curriculum, specifically Key Stage Two. We will touch on how this may apply to secondary schools, independent schools, and homeschooling, including children's expected standards and assessments.
Hands-on learning is a great way to engage young students and help them develop a love for learning. It is essential to create a learning environment that encourages exploration and experimentation. Teachers and parents can work together to provide opportunities for hands-on learning both in and outside of the classroom. This approach to teaching can help students retain information better and apply it to real-world situations.
The reception curriculum in England is also known as the early years foundation stage (EYFS). During this stage, children develop in several areas, including literacy, maths, science, understanding the world, physical development, emotional development, communication and language skills. One of the best ways to promote growth in these areas is through hands-on learning.
The core national curriculum topics are English, Mathematics and Science, while the foundation subjects include history, geography, design and technology, art and design, music, physical education including physical development, computing and a modern foreign language (KS2). Each year group has specific learning goals to achieve in these topics, which are designed to build on the previous year's knowledge and prepare students for the next stage of their education.
Science is a fascinating and ever-evolving subject, and it is important that children develop a strong foundation of scientific knowledge from a young age. At Hands-On Education, we believe that the best way to achieve this is through hands-on, interactive learning experiences. Children should develop scientific knowledge without stress by asking relevant questions to scientific ideas and even performing simple tests.
As your child’s learning becomes more confident in their maths skills, you can introduce a knowledge fluency though hands-on maths resources that include mental maths games and other knowledge-based building games to help grow their confidence. We believe every child is capable of learning ks2 maths with confidence. With our maths resources and a lot of patience you can help a child’s progress along this key topic. Let’s move beyond the mantra of: practice, practice, practice and actually make maths fun! Choose Hands-On Education for innovative ways to teach and help your classroom achieve its full potential in ks2 maths.
Physical Education, or PE, is an essential part of a child's education and the curriculum. Not only does it help pupils develop physical fitness, but it also helps them learn important skills such as teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship. However, coming up with new and engaging primary PE curriculum games and lesson plans can be a challenge for teachers and homeschooling parents alike. That's why we've compiled a range of ideas and resources to help you teach PE lessons that are both fun and educational.
When it comes to art and design in key stage 2, the English national curriculum sets out clear guidelines for what children should be learning. The curriculum states that children from seven to eleven years old should be taught to use a diverse range of materials creatively, to develop techniques in drawing, painting and sculpture, and to evaluate and analyse their own work and that of their peers. Simply put, it is important for pupils to work exploring their ideas in art.
The key stage 2 history curriculum is an essential part of the English education system. It helps extend pupils' chronological knowledge by teaching them about the significant historical events that have shaped the world we live in. KS1 and KS2 history lessons are an essential part of the history curriculum, and they aim provide school going and homeschool children with a comprehensive understanding of the past.
Geography is a subject that can help children understand key aspects of the wider world and the ways in which people interact with the environment. The national curriculum for England focuses on a variety of geographical skills including time zones, trade links, locational knowledge, and land use. Pupils learn about the key physical and human characteristics of different places, as well as the environmental regions that exist around the world.
The English national curriculum places a strong emphasis on developing pupils' skills in spelling, writing, grammar, punctuation, reading, and poetry. These skills are essential for effective communication, both in personal and professional contexts. In terms of spelling, pupils are expected to learn and apply the rules of English spelling, including the use of prefixes, suffixes, and root words. They are also taught to use strategies such as phonics and mnemonics to help them improve their spelling.
Design and technology (DT) resources are crucial to the English national curriculum, throughout primary and secondary education. The curriculum is designed to aid students in developing essential skills, knowledge, and gain a greater understanding through a framework of ideas. It is continuously evolving to reflect changes in the environment, equipment, and resource structures that are available to school teachers and home educating families.
We offer engaging ks2 national curriculum-based topics help prepare children for tests and organised teacher assessments. By incorporating hands-on activities into our resources, Hands-On Education makes learning more enjoyable and memorable for children and teachers. This can lead to better retention of information and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Physical education is a crucial aspect of a child's development, especially during their early years in school. It is essential to teach them fundamental movement skills that they can use throughout their lives. However, sometimes the importance of overall health gets overlooked in the process. That's where Hands-On Education comes in. They understand the challenges teachers and parents face when trying to achieve their desired physical education outcomes with young children. They develop activities that encourage physical activity while also promoting overall health and well being.
This key stage 1 topic is a fun way for children to learn about music, science, design, and physical education. Your child will play games to discover body percussion, make up silly rhythms, and enjoy listening to recorded music. They will also have the opportunity to design and create their own musical instruments, which is a great way to encourage creativity and problem-solving skills.
Gaining an early understanding of mathematics helps children throughout their life. Whether it’s little ones learning to count to five in Key Stage 1 or secondary school children in Key Stage 2 learning about calculating right angles in geometry. Teaching with engaging activities and strong supporting resources will help build your child’s knowledge of mathematics. Overall, a strong foundation in general and advanced maths is essential for success in both personal and professional life. It is important for students to invest time and effort in mastering mathematical concepts and skills, as it can provide them with valuable tools for problem-solving and critical thinking.
One way that Hands-On Education explores core history topics is through the use of simulations, timeline cards and role-playing activities. For example, students can simulate the experience of living in a particular time period or culture, or take on the role of historical figures and act out key events. This can help students bond with events beyond living memory. As pupils understand certain events in history their ability to compare aspects of different periods grows and with this, pupils tend to develop empathy and an appreciation for the complexities of historical events and social structures grow.
For key stages one and two pupils, which includes children aged between five and eleven years old, the focus is on developing national curriculum level literacy and numeracy skills, as well as introducing them to a range of subjects such as science, history, geography and art. Learning basic geographical vocabulary is particularly important within this topic. Hands-on education can be a valuable tool for achieving these objectives, as it allows children to explore and learn through practical activities, worksheets and simple videos.
Firstly, it’s worth clarifying that the UK National Curriculum is actually made up of four separate curriculums in much the same way it comprises of four different countries. Commonly referred to as the English National Curriculum this is actually inaccurate as it is properly titled The National Curriculum of England. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland while part of the United Kingdom use their own national curriculums.
One of the key objectives of the national curriculum is to enable primary school aged pupils to learn skills through tools and equipment that will be useful in their future lives, including problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. To achieve this goal, the national curriculum of England provides a wide range of subjects and topics, including science, mathematics, English, history, geography, and many more.
Throughout our amphibian’s topic your child will learn about the key features of amphibians, find out what frogs eat and the stages of a frog’s life cycle. Explore a pond habitat and observe why amphibians live there, also discover how fully functional early life amphibians are compared to other animals. With seven great activities your students or home educated family will love learning about the life cycle of an amphibian.
Life art does not require a lot of materials, year two children can paint using leaves, sticks and other items from nature. By using their natural environment pupils will find examples to develop their natural relationship with nature. Get your students outdoors to explore the colours of art in nature. Inspire exhibitions of natural life by taking pictures, playing music and making land art.
‘Action Art’ is a technique inspired by the famous American artist Jackson Pollock (1912 – 1956). With the canvas lying flat on the floor, Pollock experimented with dripping and pouring paint onto its surface. The effect would change with the force he used, the different objects he used to drip the paint and his position around the canvas. His physical movements around the canvas have been compared to that of a dancer. Have your children create their own artwork and experiment with dripping and pouring paint.
Unlike most animal groups, cold blooded amphibians such as toads, frogs, newts, and salamanders change from marine-based to land-based early in their life cycle. Scientists divide living amphibians into three main animal groups. Frogs and toads; salamanders and newts; and the strange, worm-like, limbless vertebrates called caecilians. As of 2023 there are about 6,000 species of frogs and toads around the world with only one-tenth as many newts and salamanders and even fewer caecilians.
With Hands-On Education, you will discover a large range of topics covering year one and year two art as outlined in the National Curriculum for England. These have been developed for classroom and home school families. Teachers and home educators understand that children learn and grow in their own unique ways and develop artistic ideas independently. Exploring KS1 Art does not mean children have to be taught art lessons or consider themselves budding artists.
The Science National Curriculum in England presents a programme of study for primary and secondary school aged children that ensures pupils build secure foundations in the subject of science. At Hands-on Education we closely follow the national curriculum for science throughout our activities, worksheets and science videos. By following practical scientific methods processes and taking into account the skills and areas of scientific knowledge needed for young children, our programmes focus on designing suitable, challenging and engaging activities.
Our most popular wiki articles look at Key Stages 1 and 2. Students are required to study a range of subjects that form the foundation of their education. These compulsory subjects typically include English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Art and Design, Music, Physical Education (PE), and Computing. Additionally, students are introduced to Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) education, which helps them develop essential life skills and understand the importance of health and wellbeing. Religious Education (RE) is also taught, though parents have the option to withdraw their children from these lessons if they wish. This broad curriculum aims to provide a well-rounded education, ensuring that students develop a variety of skills and knowledge to prepare them for future learning stages.
The emphasis on a diverse curriculum ensures that every child has the opportunity to explore their interests and talents, fostering a love for learning that can last a lifetime. Teachers employ a range of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles, from hands-on activities and interactive lessons to the integration of technology in the classroom.
Moreover, schools often offer extracurricular activities and clubs that complement the academic curriculum. These might include sports teams, drama clubs, science clubs, and music ensembles, providing students with additional avenues to develop their social skills, teamwork, and creativity.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to be actively involved in their children's education, attending parent-teacher meetings and supporting learning at home. This partnership between school and home is crucial in creating a supportive environment where students can thrive.
Overall, the primary education system is designed to nurture well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the emotional and social skills necessary for success in secondary education and beyond.
National Curriculum Map published by the British Government
Here is the comprehensive overview of the key stages in the English National Curriculum, as outlined by the British Government's National Curriculum Map. These stages mark the progression through the curriculum, ultimately leading students to the highly esteemed GCSE or IGCSE qualifications in Year 11 and A-levels in Year 13. This structured pathway ensures that students are well-prepared and equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills as they advance through their educational journey.
Students typically consider aspects such as their higher education goals and potential future career paths when deciding on their AS and A-level subjects. These aspirations often serve as guiding factors in shaping their choices for these academic levels. Additionally, students may seek advice from teachers, career counsellors, and even family members to make well-informed decisions. Extracurricular interests and personal passions also play a significant role, as they can provide a more well-rounded educational experience and enhance college applications.
Understanding the prerequisites for their desired university courses or career fields can further influence their subject selection. For example, a student aiming to pursue medicine might prioritize subjects like Biology and Chemistry, while someone interested in engineering might focus on Mathematics and Physics.
Moreover, students often consider their strengths and weaknesses in particular subjects, opting for those where they feel more confident and capable of achieving high grades. Peer influence can also be a factor, as students sometimes choose subjects that allow them to stay in classes with friends or join groups where they feel a sense of camaraderie.
In today's ever-evolving job market, skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity are highly valued. Consequently, students might also consider subjects that help them develop these competencies, such as Computer Science, Art, or Creative Writing.
Ultimately, the process of choosing AS and A-level subjects is a multifaceted decision that requires careful consideration, self-awareness, and a forward-looking mindset.
Advanced Subsidiary or AS-level qualifications are certifications that can be obtained after one or two years of study. These qualifications are typically considered to be equivalent to half of an A-level. They serve as a stepping stone for students who wish to pursue further education, particularly A-levels, or who seek to enter the workforce with a solid foundation of academic achievement. AS-levels cover a wide range of subjects, allowing students to explore their interests and strengths in areas such as mathematics, sciences, humanities, and the arts.
The flexibility of AS-levels means that students can often tailor their studies to align with their future goals, whether they intend to apply to universities, colleges, or vocational training programs. Moreover, the skills developed during AS-level courses—such as critical thinking, research, and problem-solving—are highly valued by both higher education institutions and employers.
In addition to academic development, AS-levels provide an opportunity for personal growth. Students gain confidence in their abilities, learn to manage their time effectively, and develop a sense of independence as they navigate the demands of higher-level study. This combination of academic and personal development ensures that students are well-prepared for the next stages of their educational or professional journeys.
A-level courses can be structured in two main ways, depending on the examination board - Cambridge or Edexcel. These courses can either be modular or linear two-year programs. In modular courses, students are assessed as they complete individual modules throughout the program. On the other hand, linear courses culminate in end-of-programme examinations in each subject. Additionally, students may receive Advanced Subsidiary (AS-level) qualifications at the end of their first or second year of study. These AS-level qualifications are typically considered to be equivalent to half of a full A-level qualification.
A-levels, or Advanced Level courses, are advanced academic qualifications taken by students aged 16 to 18. They differ from GCSE/IGCSEs in that they offer a higher level of complexity and depth of study. Most students opt to study three or four A-level subjects due to their demanding nature. A-level courses can either be modular or linear, with exams administered either as individual modules or as end-of-programme assessments, depending on the examination board (such as Cambridge or Edexcel). Additionally, students can obtain Advanced Subsidiary (AS) level qualifications after completing the first or second year of study, which are typically equivalent to half an A-level. When choosing their AS and A-level subjects, students often consider their higher education goals and potential career paths.
GCSE and IGCSE qualifications are graded based on two different systems - either on a scale of 9 to 1 or using the traditional A+ to G grading system. Students typically sit examinations at the end of Key Stage 4, after completing two years of study in their respective subjects. In the newer 9 to 1 grading scale, a Grade 9 is regarded as higher than the previous A* grade. For those using the traditional system, Grade 4 is seen as approximately equivalent to a grade of C. Regardless of the grading system used, both GCSE and IGCSE qualifications are designed to assess a wide range of abilities and knowledge. These assessments often include a combination of written exams, coursework, and practical evaluations, depending on the subject.
Teachers play a crucial role in preparing students for these examinations, offering guidance, resources, and support throughout the two-year course. Additionally, many students benefit from extra tutoring sessions, study groups, and online resources to bolster their understanding and performance.
Success in these qualifications can open doors to further education opportunities, such as A-levels, vocational courses, or apprenticeships. Universities and employers often look at GCSE and IGCSE results as indicators of a student's academic abilities and potential.
Beyond academics, the process of studying for and taking these exams helps students develop essential life skills, including time management, critical thinking, and the ability to work under pressure. The experience can be challenging, but it also sets a strong foundation for future educational and career endeavours.
