The Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA) in partnership with Education Services Australia (ESA) has prepared 15 units of work to support teachers in the implementation of the Australian Curriculum as part of the Supporting the Australian Curriculum Online (SACOL). The units are designed for students from reception to year 10.
These units have been written by experienced teachers using resources that are available online. Each unit consists of an overview, 5 lesson plans, and additional links and resources.
During this unit, students are engaged in the subject of heat transfer by being introduced to the apprentice chef Pierre who needs the assistance of the students to solve some problems he encounters in his kitchen.
Structure and features
Students explore and examine heat transfer in the context of the kitchen. They identify sources of heat in the home and environment and explore 2 modes of heat transfer – conduction and convection. They conduct activities using ice and water to explore these modes of heat transfer, and then identify familiar situations where these modes could be used. They learn to use and read thermometers so they can gain accurate data from activities relating to heat. They explore conductors and insulators and identify how colours absorb and reflect heat.
In order to apply their knowledge about heat transfer, they collaboratively plan and conduct an investigation to help solve a problem for apprentice chef Pierre. Students use this knowledge to explore the concept of transferring heat between objects. They further apply their knowledge of heat transfer by discussing familiar contexts of heat transfer such as clothing choice, keeping warm or cool and heating and cooling homes.
The webpage contains:
- unit overviews
- background information
- safety advice
- materials and equipment
- lesson objectives
- find out what your learners bring
- useful links.
Teacher notes
Throughout this unit, there are opportunities for exploring all 3 strands of science.
- Physical science
- Heat
- Science as a human endeavour
- Investigations.
