Covers: Activity Resources Relation to National Curriculum Downloads
Activity One - History Timeline

Activity 1

History Timeline

Activity Two - Calendars And Schedules

Activity 2

Calendars And Schedules

Activity Three - Candle Clock

Activity 3

Candle Clock

STEM Activity
Activity Four - Sundial Investigation

Activity 4

Sundial Investigation

Activity Five - Water Clock

Activity 5

Water Clock

STEM Activity
Activity Six - 10 Second Marble Run Challenge

Activity 6

10 Second Marble Run Challenge

STEM Activity

Measuring Time
Booklist

Fieldtrips:

London Science Museum - Clockmakers' Museum (Free Admission)

The Clockmakers' Museum, located in the Science Museum in South Kensington, London, is recognized as the oldest collection of clocks and watches in the world. Established by the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers, which was founded in 1631, the museum showcases a remarkable assortment of over 700 timepieces, including more than 600 watches, 90 clocks, and 30 marine chronometers, alongside sundials and examples of hand engraving. The collection highlights the evolution of horology from the 1600s to the present day, illustrating the craftsmanship and innovation of London's clockmakers.

History and Collection

Originally housed in the Guildhall, the museum moved to its current location in 2015. The collection began in 1814 and aims to educate the public about the history of clock and watchmaking, particularly in London. Significant pieces include John Harrison's fifth marine chronometer, crafted in 1770, and a variety of timepieces from renowned makers such as Abraham-Louis Breguet and Thomas Tompion.

Highlights

  • Marine Chronometers: The collection includes pivotal innovations in marine chronometry, essential for navigation at sea, with pieces from notable figures like John Harrison and Thomas Mudge.
  • Abraham-Louis Breguet Exhibition: This special display features rare timepieces, including a gold tourbillon watch made for King George III, highlighting Breguet's influence on horology and his connections with English clients.
  • Educational Focus: The museum serves as a resource for those interested in horology, with a library and archive located at the Guildhall Library, which contains historical records and materials related to clockmakers.

Royal Observatory - Greenwich, London (Paid Admission)

The Royal Observatory, Greenwich, is a historic site located in Greenwich Park, London, and is renowned for its significant contributions to astronomy and navigation. Established in 1675 by King Charles II, the observatory was designed to aid in the determination of longitude at sea, which was critical for navigation. The site is famously known for the Prime Meridian, which runs through it, giving rise to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the precursor to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

Historical Significance

The observatory was constructed under the guidance of Sir Christopher Wren and was the first in the world to be specifically built for the purpose of astronomy. It housed the first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed, who was responsible for producing star charts and improving navigation techniques. Over the years, the observatory has hosted several notable astronomers, including Edmond Halley and James Bradley, who contributed to its legacy in the field of magnetic and astronomical observations.

Key Features

Visitors to the Royal Observatory can enjoy several highlights:

  • Prime Meridian Line: Stand on the line that represents 0 degrees longitude, a significant point for global timekeeping.
  • Great Equatorial Telescope: This historic telescope is a focal point for astronomy enthusiasts.
  • Planetarium: Offers shows that explore various astronomical phenomena, though tickets for the planetarium must be purchased separately from general admission.
  • Exhibitions and Events: The observatory hosts various exhibitions and events related to astronomy and space exploration, including the Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition.

Measuring Time Activities

Activity 2 - Calendars And Schedules

Activity 2

Calendars And Schedules

Hands-On Activities:
Activity 3 - Candle Clock

Activity 3

Candle Clock

Hands-On Activities:
Activity 4 - Sundial Investigation

Activity 4

Sundial Investigation

Hands-On Activities:
Activity 5 - Water Clock

Activity 5

Water Clock

Hands-On Activities:
Activity 6 - 10 Second Marble Run Challenge

Activity 6

10 Second Marble Run Challenge

Hands-On Activities:

Measuring Time STEM activities and lesson plans for free.

Measuring Time Activity

In Key Stage Two, teaching children about Measuring Time can be an exciting journey filled with hands-on STEM activities. As we gear up for Free STEM Lessons 2024, here are six engaging activities to spark curiosity and learning in your students.

By incorporating these interactive and educational activities into your classroom, you can make learning about time measurement a memorable and enjoyable experience for your students during British Science Week 2024.

Measuring Time is a fundamental science topic in the Year 4 / Key Stage 2 national curriculum. We are giving away this topic and 9 activities for free!

A further look at our free year four measuring time activities.

Measuring Time Activity
  1. History Timeline + video: Create a historical timeline with significant events and have the children make a video presentation about a particular era. This activity not only teaches about time but also enhances research and presentation skills.
  2. Calendars and Schedules: Help students understand the concept of days, weeks, and months by creating personalized calendars and schedules. This practical activity can improve their time management skills while learning about the calendar system.
  3. Candle Clock: Explore the ancient method of telling time using a candle clock. This activity allows children to see how time can be measured using the burning of a candle - a fun and interactive way to learn about timekeeping.
  4. Sundial Investigation: Build a sundial and observe how shadows change throughout the day. This hands-on activity not only teaches about the movement of the sun but also introduces the concept of telling time using shadows.
  5. Water Clock: Construct a simple water clock to demonstrate the passage of time using water flow. This primary aged STEM activity combines creativity and science to help children understand the concept of measuring time through a unique method.
  6. 10 Second Marble Run: Engage students in a quick and exciting marble run challenge where they measure and compare the time it takes for marbles to travel through different tracks. This activity promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills while incorporating the element of time measurement.

Why is Measuring Time an important topic for my child?

Have you ever contemplated the significance of teaching time measurement to your young ones? Let us delve into this essential subject in a manner as engaging as a spirited game of hopscotch.

To begin, the comprehension of time aids children in understanding sequencing and order. Picture this scenario: lacking the ability to measure time, a child may believe that breakfast follows bedtime stories! Through learning time-telling skills, children develop a sense of routine and structure, crucial for daily activities and future planning. They begin to recognize that certain events occur at specific times, rendering their world more predictable and secure.

Furthermore, time measurement serves as a pathway to enhancing mathematical proficiency. By acquainting themselves with hours, minutes, and seconds, children concurrently hone their counting, addition, and subtraction skills. It is akin to incorporating vegetables into their favourite dish! Unbeknownst to them, they are improving their mathematical acumen while calculating the time until recess or the remaining minutes of their beloved cartoon.

Lastly, instilling the importance of time management early on equips children for future accomplishments. As they mature, they will need to balance academics, hobbies, and social engagements. Proficiency in time measurement and organization enables them to prioritize effectively. This life skill will serve them well not only in the classroom but also in various aspects of life.

In conclusion, grasping time measurement transcends mere clock-reading; it lays the groundwork for a structured, mathematically adept, and well-organized life. Wishing you fulfilling teaching experiences, filled with moments of joy and enchantment!

Why was Measuring Time chosen as a British Science Week focus?

Measuring Time Activity

The selection of Measuring Time as the focal point for British Science Week warrants exploration to understand its significance. Time, a concept universally understood by individuals of all ages, permeates our daily routines, from waking up to an alarm clock to anticipating breaks or weekends. By centering on Measuring Time, British Science Week not only taps into a familiar subject but also unveils its captivating nature, offering a plethora of interactive activities such as constructing sundials or devising water clocks to engage students meaningfully.

Moreover, comprehending time is pivotal for delving into more intricate scientific concepts, ranging from biological life cycles to lunar phases. Proficiency in time measurement serves as a foundational skill in scientific inquiry, bridging the gap between everyday time awareness and scientific exploration. Witness the excitement in students as they realize the parallel between their time measurement practices and scientific applications in unravelling the mysteries of the cosmos.

Lastly, emphasizing Measuring Time nurtures vital life skills like time management, planning, and organizational acumen, integral for academic success and personal growth. As students grasp the art of time measurement, they enhance their aptitude in scheduling, meeting deadlines, and efficiently coordinating their endeavours.

In conclusion, Measuring Time emerges as a stimulating and insightful theme for British Science Week due to its relatability, significance in scientific education, and contribution to essential life skills. Embrace this opportunity to empower your students to make the most of every moment.

What is British Science Week and how is it used in education?

Measuring Time Activity

British Science Week is an annual celebration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) that takes place every March across the UK. It’s like a big, fun science party that lasts for ten days, designed to get kids and adults alike excited about the wonders of the scientific world. The week is packed with activities, events, and challenges that encourage hands-on learning and spark curiosity in young minds.

For teachers and home educators, British Science Week is a golden opportunity to integrate some extra zest into the curriculum. Whether you’re in a classroom or your living room, you can find a plethora of resources tailored to different age groups, from early years to secondary school. Think creative science experiments, interactive workshops, and engaging talks from real-life scientists. The British Science Association, which organizes the week, provides free activity packs filled with ideas that align with the national curriculum, making it easy to plan lessons that are both educational and exhilarating.

But it’s not just about the experiments and activities; British Science Week also emphasizes the importance of science in everyday life and future careers. It’s a chance to show students that science isn’t just a subject in school but a fascinating and essential part of the world around us. By participating, students can develop a deeper understanding of scientific principles, hone their problem-solving skills, and maybe even find a passion that could lead to a future career in STEM. So, grab those safety goggles, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make science the highlight of your educational calendar!

Is science an important aspect of Key Stage 2 in schools?

Measuring Time Activity

Absolutely, science is a vital aspect of Key Stage 2 education! It’s more than just memorizing facts; it's about sparking curiosity and fostering a love for exploration and discovery. At this stage, children are naturally inquisitive, and science provides the perfect playground for them to ask questions, experiment, and learn about the world around them.

Key Stage 2 science covers a range of fascinating topics, from understanding the life cycles of plants and animals to exploring forces and magnets. These subjects not only align with the national curriculum but also help develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. When children investigate how plants grow or why certain materials conduct electricity, they’re not just learning scientific concepts—they’re learning how to think like scientists. This lays a solid foundation for future learning and helps them see the relevance of science in everyday life.

Moreover, incorporating hands-on activities and experiments can make science lessons incredibly engaging and fun. Imagine the excitement on a child’s face when they see a simple chemical reaction or when they successfully build a small circuit. These experiences are priceless and can ignite a lifelong passion for science. So, whether you're a teacher in a classroom or a parent facilitating learning at home, integrating science into your Key Stage 2 curriculum is not only important but also immensely rewarding.

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