What the lesson is about

Twig is a website and series of short science videos with excellent graphics and useful explanations, writes Alessio Bernadelli.

A wide range of topics for seven- to 16-year-olds comes with an excellent mind-mapping tool which allows easy browsing of the site and maps out video content so you can find what you need in seconds.

The films provide very useful starters for a new topic but also help to consolidate learning. You could assign pupils the task of watching a video and writing a review or news report about the topics discussed, then follow through in the classroom with further debate and build activities around the subject.

Key concepts are highlighted in effective ways. In “What is an atom?” new terms are introduced, followed by a simple definition and a text banner on screen, to reinforce the concept by using key words. High-quality animations help learners by using visual anchors to each of the key concepts. Visit

http:twig-it.comabout-twig

And another thing.

Children’s science kit retailer Scienceshop is running a Science Stars competition to find the most exciting school experiments at primary or secondary level.

Schools are invited to film pupils as they conduct an experiment and upload the clip to YouTube with the title “Scienceshop Science Star” and school name. The clip should be three to five minutes long, show a chemistry, physics or biology investigation and be submitted by 30 June.

First prize is Scienceshop products worth pound;250, second prize is worth pound;100 and third prize is worth pound;50.

Scienceshop kits are designed to support independent learning, challenge gifted pupils and support after-school clubs. Email the link to cathryn@publicityoxford.com.

Visit www.scienceshop.com.