Children were getting their detective hats on to try and solve the murder mystery that had plagued the science department. Not only did they carry out investigations during science they also did many other activities in other subjects as well. Forensic talents such as fingerprinting, blood typing and chemical analysis were the highlights of practical investigation from the students. 

Year 8s have done various activities during the BSW such as learning about sustainable fishing,  researching about career options, designing their own aquatic species. The Year 7s also had opportunities to carry out practical activities such as extractions of metals and flame tests. 

In humans, caffeine affects the ventricles of the heart, leading to an increase in the rate of contraction and relaxation. The heart beats faster and with each beat it ejects a higher volume of blood (increased cardiac output).  Caffeine also increases the amount of a molecule called cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in the sinoatrial node. This increases the rate of depolarisation of the atria. Three cups of strong coffee or tea contain enough caffeine (and a similar acting compound called theobromine) to cause an increase in a human heart rate of 5–20 beats/min.

Daphnia have a small heart that is very easy to see under a low power light microscope. The heart rate of a Daphnia can be up to 300 beats per minute and you can monitor and count it under different conditions. The BTEC Science group investigated the effect of caffeine on the heart rate of Daphnia by changing the concentration of caffeine and adding it to the water surrounding the Daphnia.

Science Club

The science department is running a club every Monday after school for Years 7 and 8.  Various fun experiments and activities will be conducted to enhance learning. 

Also, drop in sessions are available for Year 11s every Friday after school.