Transition Year Programme

Transition Year Curriculum 

Subject: Science

Length of Course: 15 weeks

Teacher(s): Dolarus Kelly and Chris Moran

Aims of the Course:

  • To broaden students understanding of science
  • Transition Year is an ideal opportunity for students to gain exposure to extremely interesting aspects of everyday science that may not be on the Junior or Leaving certificate syllabus.
  • Educating the students on various aspects agricultural science, chemistry, biology, physics and beyond.
  • Promoting general, technical and academic skills with an emphasis on self-directed learning.
  • To relate science to the real world.
  • To find and explore the latest developments in the world of science.
  • To assist students in selecting Leaving certificate subjects.

Course Outline:

This programme contains many modules :

  • Agricultural Science – Vegetable Garden, Recognising common weeds
  • Flight, Space and Astronomy
  • Sports Science
  • Climate Change – Pollution, carbon footprint, Plastic
  • Healthy Eating
  • Forensic Science
  • Elements
  • Microbiology
  • Ecology
  • Fun Chemistry Experiments
  • Remedi Debating Science Issues
  • Schoolbots Challenge
  • Bt Young Scientist Competition
  • And any other points of interest indicated by the students.

As the Transition Year experience is based on more self-inquiry and direction not all modules above will be done due to the time frame, they will be chosen once learning more about the students interests.

Visiting Speakers/Outdoor trips etc:

  • Visit Irish Seedsavers, Scariff, Co. Clare
  • National Ploughing Championship, Athy, Co.Kildare
  • Food Glorious Food Schools Presentation and cookery demonstration on healthy food by Bord Bia.
  • Remedi Debating Science Issues Debates in Galway, Finals Dublin.
  • Schoolbots Challenge, Tipperary Institute
  • BT Young Scientist Exhibition, Dublin
  • Visit to the Physics Department NUIG
  • Science Week 7th – 14th November Speaker and Demonstrators in.
  • And maybe more.

Cross-Curricular Aspects:

  • Woodwork – Building the raised beds for the vegetables.
  • C.s.p.e. – linking with Worldwise friendship garden partnership in developing the gardens.
  • Home Economics – Healthy Eating
  • Physical Education – Sports Science
  • English – Debating Science Issues
  • Computers – Schoolbots Challenge, and presentation of projects.

Proposed Teaching Methodologies:

In as much as is possible, a variety of teaching methods will be employed to deliver this module successfully.

1. Self-directed learning:

Students will be encouraged to research topics building on information given in class, promoting confidence and developing social skills.  They will be requested to make a short presentation of their selected research project at the end of the module.

2. Teamwork:

Practical and experimental tasks in the module will create a positive learning opportunity to participate in team work, a skill which shall be beneficial when they become part of the workforce.

3. Technology and advancement:

Keeping in mind the rapid changes in technology and science and driven by the knowledge society in which we live, my aim is to deliver the course in a manner that will reflect these standards.

4. Preparation for life-long learning:

Learning the future for the future is of premium importance and it is my aspiration to equip our students with the necessary tools and skills which will stand to them, whether that means further studies or entering the workforce immediately upon leaving school to train in a trade, we hope they will have embraced the love of learning. And continue to enjoy the merits of knowledge and learning for many years to come.