CREST * Investigators is a brand new, UK-wide award scheme that enables children to solve scientific problems through practical investigation.  The activities focus on thinking about, talking about, and doing science.  They are designed to be used primarily outside of class time (eg a science club), though some are suitable for use in the classroom.  The activities develop children's scientific enquiry skills in an enjoyable context with links to the National Curriculum where appropriate.

The scheme replaces the popular First Investigators and Young Investigators schemes from September 2007 and is suitable for children, usually aged from 5-12, of all abilities.

CREST * Investigators are available in three levels:

STAR

At Star level (usually 5-7 year olds) children discuss and solve problems and share experiences.  This normally takes about 8 weeks.

SUPERSTAR

At SuperStar level (usually for 7-11 year olds) children work indepently, discuss ideas and how to test them, solve simple problems and decide how to share results.  This normally takes about 12 weeks.

MEGASTAR

At MegaStar level (usually for 8-12 year olds) children research and think about scientific problems, make independent decisions about materials and procedures, record and interpret results, organise their work and communicate ideas.  This normally takes about 12 weeks.

A resource pack is provided including activity cards for children which feature a problem in a format that is relevant to the lives of the children eg stories and newspaper articles, and printed versions of websites, text messages and emails, to capture the imagination before posing a challenge.  Also included in the resource pack is the organiser's information which features step by step instructions for running the activity, with highlighted safety points and resource list.  Clear and informative guidance with each activity makes it easy for those without a science background to conduct the session.

New exciting investigations include sniffy sneezes, worm charming and sticky situations.  Popular activities from the Frist and Young Investigators scheme have been retained and updated.

The scheme includes:

• Star Logos to record children's progress through each level
• Stickers that go into the Star Log after completion of each activity
• Badges and certificates to mark the end of each level
• Support materials for oragnisers

If you are interested in taking part in this programme then please contact Hayley on 01525 408082.

 

Click here for more details of CREST Awards