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Extreme Materials – Antarctica

Discover how scientists and engineers help people to live and work in one of the harshest environments on Earth - Antarctica.

Who is it for: Key stage 2
Duration: 60 minutes
On this workshop, students will conduct experiments to find the best construction materials for an Antarctic Research Station, similar to the one pictured.

Learn about the cutting-edge design of a real Antarctic Base.

During this hands-on workshop, students will conduct experiments to find the best construction materials for an Antarctic Research Station.

This workshop will not be available to book in December 2024. See details of alternative seasonal workshops during this period. 

Curriculum links

Key stage 2
Design and technology
  • Properties & changes of materials
  • Working scientifically

By the end of the workshops students will have discovered:

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How engineers use their knowledge of material properties to help people live and work in extreme conditions.

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How to test the properties of materials using a range of lab equipment.

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The properties of some unusual materials.

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How extremes of temperature can affect the properties of materials. (freeze)

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What it is like to live in Antarctica.

What other teachers say...

“There were lots to do and the activities filled the whole day well.”

Thornhill Primary School

‘It has been a fantastic day! The workshop was wonderful – really interactive. The children have loved it.’

The Independent Grammar School Durham