Darwin Day for Schools
To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s publication “On the Origin of Species” the Centre for Behaviour and Evolution at Newcastle University teamed up with the Great North Museum Hancock to offer workshops to schools that investigate Darwin’s scientific ideas and their impact on society.
The workshops formed part of the Great North Museum’s education programme, and were offered free of charge. Scientists from Newcastle University were also on hand to talk about Darwin, evolution, and their current research in evolution and behaviour.
The workshops were offered as follows:
Evolve!
To coincide with the anniversary of Darwin’s publication, ‘On the Origin of Species’; follow us back in time and become immersed in a heated Victorian debate.
‘Evolve!’ is an interactive session set in the context of one of science’s long standing debates -Evolution. Explore fossil and contemporary evidence to uncover the truths surrounding this still controversial topic. Let us help bring science to life.
23, 24 November (am and pm sessions)
Duration: 2 hours
Suitable for: KS4 and KS5
Clippy Island
Take part in an investigation into natural selection - ‘Clippy Island’ explores the mechanisms of variation within a population and shows how natural selection is the main driver for evolution.
Students will become members of a bird population and take part in a ‘hands-on’ activity, helping to simplify this often difficult topic. This session can be complemented with a visit to the ‘Natural Northumbria’ and ‘Living Planet’ galleries.
25 November (am and pm sessions)
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Suitable for: KS3 and KS4
99% Ape: An Introduction to Human Evolution
Darwin’s theory suggested that man had descended from a common ancestor. A revolutionary concept at the time, his theory of evolution questioned humanity’s place in the universe - but do we know the full story? Join us on a human odyssey as we explore the themes of common ancestry, diversity and natural selection. Look into how we, as modern Homo sapiens, evolved from more primitive ancestors.
26, 27 November (am and pm sessions)
Duration: 1 hour
Suitable for: KS3 and KS4
This session is limited to 15 students.
The Centre for Behaviour and Evolution also made funding available to help towards the transport costs for school groups attending these workshops.
