top picks
An experiment that shows how the thermal conductivity of a material affects how cold we perceive it to be. Requires multiple LCD thermometers and large samples if possible
A simple fun experiment to try at home or in the lab. Can you really tell the temperature of something?
A experiment to show how radiated energy can be focused.
A worksheet on how to make a thermometer.
Experiment to show how changes in temperature cause objects to expand or contract.
Instructions for a simple experiment in which pupils investigate the insulating properties of styrofoam cups, recording data and drawing conclusions from it.
Detailed practical instructions and other notes that explain how to show that solids expand when heated.
A dipping bird is an example of a heat engine.
A pack of lesson plans and linked video clips from the lectures, which can be used to teach a variety of science concepts.
Game in which kids estimate temperatures of e.g. a freezer, melting ice. An entertaining introductory activity to the use of melting and boiling points to separate mixtures
Nice friendly revision aid from the BBC's Key Stage 2 site setting out the basic facts about heat conductors and insulators and what they are used for.
Transfer of thermal energy from BBC Bitesize. A short but clear and simple explanation of conduction, convection and radiation
An animated page on conduction, convection and radiation.
A page of information about temperature and heat.
An animated interactive activity about conduction, convection and radiation.
Matching objects to their temperature.
This one of the best of the on-line games. A beautiful and simple set of scientific Flash challenges that engage and stimulate. Pupils can play on this for hours and then create their own puzzles to send to their friends.
A Blockbusters quiz about heat and conduction.