Sparking Science

Sparking Science is an exciting Junior Cycle Science package, carefully written to meet the requirements of the specification.

Sparking Science – Junior Cycle Science package

Sparking Science is an exciting Junior Cycle Science package, carefully written to meet the requirements of the specification. This comprehensive textbook supports preparation for the final exam and will ignite an enthusiasm for Science in all students.

  • Innovative integrated, thematic structure makes it easy to connect learning between and across strands and promotes deeper understanding
  • The first textbook written since the new exam provides perfect preparation with the inclusion of exam questions and guidance on the CBAs
  • Student-friendly language, attractive design and carefully scaffolded assessment support all students to achieve success at Common Level

Why Sparking Science

  • Closely written to the Learning Outcomes to avoid overloading students and to ensure they are prepared for the final assessment
  • Relevant Learning Outcomes, Learning Intentions and Success Criteria are clearly listed and Actions Verbs are explained to focus learning and assist teacher planning
  • Unique cross-strand approach links Learning Outcomes from different strands into thematic Units of Learning, e.g. Sustainability. This integrated approach is advised in the specification and is in line with modern scientific practice
  • Clear links to Learning Outcomes from other strands help students make connections between topics and gain deeper understanding
  • Student-friendly language, attractive design and illustrations, key words, concise definitions and an index promote accessibility
  • Elements of Biology, Chemistry and Physics are explained using examples from space, while the Earth and Space strand is taught using analogies from the other strands. This approach creates solid links between topics and leads to improved understanding
  • Science in Society feature makes the content relevant to the lives of students
  • End of Chapter Assessment increases in level of challenge from fact retrieval (Test Yourself) to open-ended higher-order thinking (Inquiry), thus catering for all students in the Common Level classroom
  • Inquiry-based approach uses rich tasks to support active learning and foster the Key Skills
  • Investigations progress from being structured to being more open-ended as students become adept at asking questions and designing investigations
  • Comprehensive support for all aspects of Junior Cycle Science assessment:
    – Exam questions from the latest SEC papers help hone exam technique
    – Investigative techniques and research skills required for CBA 1 and 2 are introduced from the start, in Unit 1: Working Like a Scientist and developed through the Investigate This and Research This tasks
    – A Guide to the CBAs provides practical support for students as they begin, develop and complete their Classroom-Based Assessments