This week, our Year 5 pupils have been exploring how different materials act as insulators through a hands-on science investigation.
To test which material kept heat in most effectively, pupils filled beakers with warm water and wrapped each one in a different material – tin foil, bubble wrap, and felt. They then took temperature readings every five minutes over the course of 30 minutes to monitor how quickly the water cooled in each case.
Before beginning the experiment, the class made thoughtful predictions about which material they believed would be the best insulator and why, discussing the properties that might help retain heat. As the results came in, pupils compared their findings to their predictions and reflected on what they had discovered.
It was a brilliant opportunity to apply scientific enquiry skills – observing, measuring, recording, and evaluating results – and to see the principles of insulation in action!
