This Catalyst article looks at the Rosetta mission: to rendezvous with Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko where it will study the nucleus of the comet and its environment for nearly two years, and land a probe on its surface. The article also describes how gravity assists, also known as slingshot manoeuvres, are used...

In this lesson, students apply their knowledge of reaction rates, and structure and bonding, to an exciting new context – the chemistry of interstellar space. Having watched an engaging animation, students work in groups to find out about the nature of interstellar space and its atoms, ions, and molecules. They...

This report, published in 1980 by the Association of Advisers in Design and Technical Studies, describes and justifies the area of the curriculum then known as craft, design and technology. It states the importance of the skills that it teaches - allowing individuals to interact rationally and positively with the...

This Catalyst article looks at life in extreme environments on Earth which can suggest how life might exist on Mars. One of the developments in recent years that really opened up scientists’ eyes to the possibility of life on Mars has been the realization of just how adaptable and versatile life on Earth is.

This resource describes a unit of practical lessons in photography which also aimed to introduce some of the basic scientific concepts involved.

This unit was developed from work carried out with boys in the age range 14-16 years as part of the Lamp Project in 1977. The average reading age of the students...

In Nuffield Physics constructive problems or questions that ask for active thinking largely took the place of pupils' reading in texts or background books. The first chapter in this book about tests and examinations provided guidance on the nature and purposes of the questions in the range of Question Books. The...

This catalyst article looks at how scientists have analysed the isotopes of uranium in rocks in Gabon (W Africa) and shown that, for thousands of years in the distant past, a nuclear fission reaction occurred. 

This Catalyst article looks at how computer games make increasingly sophisticated use of the laws of physics to produce convincing on-screen effects. From calculating the angle that a ball bounces off a wall to modelling the frictional forces on a rally car, physics has always played a part in the development of...

This Catalyst article explains how orchids have evolved over millions of years to have a close relationship with the insects which pollinate them. Like many plants, orchids rely on insects to carry pollen from one flower to another in order to reproduce. Many plants offer a reward to pollinators, and so do some...

The human population of Earth has reached seven billion. This Catalyst article explores the impact that human activity may have on the planet. The article looks at the rate of population growth and how human impact is also related on the amount of resources used by an individual. It considers if the effects of...

This Catalyst article presents six different images of Mercury, the planet nearest the Sun. Mercury has been visited by two probes. The most recent, Messenger, orbited the planet 4000 times in four years before crashing into its...

In this Catalyst article, Mike Follows describes the surprising range of thermometers available to scientists today.

Many physical properties of materials depend on temperature. Thermometers are vital for measuring body temperature. The body's biochemical reactions work best at 37°C and the body is in...

The articles explores the use of science in the conservation effort of manta rays. Many aspects of the lives of mantas remain a mystery, including their movements and areas...

This Financial Capability document was produced by CCEA (Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment) and is designed to provide guidance to teachers in Northern Ireland when...