As 2020 comes to a close, we have gathered a collection of our favourite, and most popular, STEM education articles, activities, videos and resources for you to look through.
Share your favourite resources with us on social @edu.riaus on Facebook and Instagram and @edu_riaus on Twitter and keep an eye out for more of our favourites.
10. How quickly is the Universe expanding?
It’s a question that’s causing a crisis in astrophysics.
This article highlights the importance of reliable data in scientific research for students in years 10, 11, and 12 studying Earth and Space or Physical Sciences.
9. Kirsten is the astrophysicist of the future
Kirsten Banks is a rising star of astrophysics, getting people excited about the universe and the importance of combining contemporary and Indigenous knowledge in STEM.
Learn about her path to becoming an astrophysicist and why she thinks continuous learning is so important in this career profile for secondary students.
Find more career profiles here.
8. Best of: Chemical Reactions
The best of our resources about Chemical Resources are collated into this activity.
This complete lesson, contains starter, plenary, career inspiration and activities for your students to apply and asses their understanding of chemical reactions in Years 8, 9 and 10.
All of our “Best of…” resources can be found here.
7. Why are viruses considered non-living?
Viruses lack many of the features that are the hallmarks of life.
This explainer article is well suited to year 8, 9, and 10 Biology students who are learning about cells, viruses and living things. It is particularly appropriate for students who are interested in learning more about the COVID-19 virus.
6. Astronauts grow lettuce in space
The plants are fresh, nutritious and safe to eat.
This interesting article and short video demonstrate some amazing research happening in space right now that uses knowledge from the curriculum such as ecosystem stability and gravity to positively impact future astronauts.
5. In Class With… Climate Special
The In Class With… Climate Special aims to show students how and why they can get involved in the conversations around climate change.
Join two of Australia’s heavy weight influencers responsible for spearheading action on Climate Change, Doha Khan and Harriet O’Shea Carre, as the tell just what it took to become an effective force in this pivotal political landscape in this In Class With… Climate Special.
Find all of our “In Class With…” series here.
4. Generating electricity ‘out of thin air’
Researchers unveil a new device powered by a microbe.
An exciting development in technology, making connections between Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This resource is suitable for Physics years 6 and 10 and Senior Secondary National Curriculum for Biological Sciences.
3. Five factors that will hold back diversity in STEM
The quest for diversity in Australian STEM faces some big challenges in the coming years, write Astha Singh and Kristin Alford.
An understanding of the challenges facing students when pursuing STEM careers should help structure teaching to remove bias and barriers to increase diversity across the STEM fields.
2. In Class With… Neil deGrasse Tyson
The legend of science and screen Neil deGrasse Tyson stopped to tackle questions from school students around Australia in this exclusive In Class With…
Joined by Alan Duffy, Neil tackles questions on everything from the start (and end) of the Universe, to what it’s going to take for humans to begin moving off Earth and establishing ourselves as a multi-planet species. He even delves into what he wants his legacy to be – and it’s not what you might expect.
Find all of our “In Class With…” series here.
1. SCINEMA: Putting the Science in Cinema
SCINEMA is the largest international science film festival in the southern hemisphere, showcasing the best science feature, documentary, animated and experimental films from filmmakers around the world.
Get a selection of films that cover a range of STEM topics, each with dedicated teacher resources packed full of lesson inspiration, classroom activities and thought-provoking questions all linked to the Australian National Curriculum.
