Life@Science

 

Innovate or Evaporate - Nano Science in Nature

Introduction to Nanotechnology, an emerging science of the century

The rapid evolution of Nanoscience and its warm embrace by Singapore, and its opportunities for application position nanotechnology the dominant technology of the 21st Century. We are excited to introduce probably Singapore's first series in the world of nanotechnology to primary schools to nurture students' interest and passion in this new science, and its relevance to their modern living. Nanotechnology is about making, manipulating and measuring super tiny things - so small that they can only be seen using powerful electron microscopes. They are measured in 'nanometre', meaning a billionth of a metre. Imagine you line up 100,000 nano-particles and you will get something as thick as a strand of hair.

 

In this Nanoscience series, students will be able to:

1. Understand the wonders of living things and the impact of nano-scaled objects in everyday living
2. Conduct scientific investigations relating to living organisms
3. Appreciate the concepts of cells, atoms and nanoscience
4. Apply the process of scientific investigation involving observation, information gathering, analysing and forming conclusions
5. Appreciate the productive synergy of good teamwork

Approach

This Nanoscience series would enable students to grasp the concept of nanotechnology using simple and nonthreatening language. Students would conduct microscopic and 'nano' world experiments using familiar objects and engaging their multi-sensory learning in a fun and creative way throughout the three (3) sessions of 2-hours each. We would conduct Pre - and Post Workshop Assessment & Collation.

 

Programme Outline

Session 1	Session 2	Session 3
Ice breakers: Water drop let relay, and Smallest is King! Pre-workshop quiz Introduction to Nano World - New Vocabulary Sizing Up : Hands-on Xperiment I Cutting into nano size Short video clip & Application Speed Test- Hands-on Xperiment II Tablet or Powder Result of test & Interpretation Reflect & Review	Recap of Session 1 Smelling Test - Hands-on Xperiment III What is a nano particle? Result of tes t & Interpretation Smallest Soccer Ball a.k.a Bucky Ball Discovery of new material Making of a bucky ball Reflect & Review new vocab learnt	Recap of Session 2 Observation Test - Hands-onXperiment IV Lotus Effect Result of test & Interpretation Tasting Test - Hands-on Xperiment V Sweet Sugar Result of test & Interpretation How will Nano technology affect our lives? Post-workshop quiz Evaluation & feedback