Science Readers by Mrs K Nichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz Explore • Create • Win or earn the Science Readers Badge! There are two ways! Complete a Science reading passport and/or take part in the NEW monthly Library Mini Science Challenges. Every month you’ll find a new science-inspired challenge waiting for you in the library and on our Science readers Padlet. They are both open to everyone. Collect a passport from the library to track your science themed readers, read six books to earn a badge or complete the monthly challenge, fill in an entry slip and pop it in the Library Challenge Box by the deadline. Every month, one winner will earn the coveted Science Readers Badge and a surprise science gift! We’ve updated our Padlet with brand new Science Article Links for each year group! NEW! Recommended Reads – Check out what our Science Team are reading this term — from mind-blowing biology to weird physics and everything in between. Also, earn achievement points by addingg your own post to the “Your Favourite Science Book” tile! So – get creative, get thinking, and get your entry in to earn an achievement point and a chance to win a science readers badge. en-us 2025-08-28 10:13:27 UTC 2026-03-11 15:50:42 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/8.0/svg/1f4da.svg Science Readers Passport kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3585808150 2025-09-15 16:10:40 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3585808150 SEPTEMBER kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3585835344 📌 Challenge: Design a mnemonic to remember the Electromagnetic Spectrum.

ℹ️ More Info: A mnemonic is a memory trick — a sentence where each word starts with the right letter, helping you recall a sequence.

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

NASA Magic Windows – see the universe in different EM waves

PBS Electromagnetic Spectrum infographic


]]> 2025-09-15 16:27:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3585835344 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3633913398 October

📌 Challenge: Write a spooky opening line that uses a science phenomenon.

ℹ️ More Info: Get creative — your line should be both spooky and scientifically inspired!

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

Static-powered dancing ghost (DIY)

Get spooky with static electricity science

]]> 2025-10-15 14:41:56 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3633913398 Science News Explores – Real science rewritten for younger readers kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635934880 2025-10-16 14:02:57 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635934880 Frontiers for Young Minds – Scientists explain their own discoveries in accessible language kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635936969 2025-10-16 14:04:14 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635936969 BBC Bitesize Science – Recaps, quizzes and cool explainers kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635938324 2025-10-16 14:04:56 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635938324 Science Journal for Kids & Teens – Adapted real research papers kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635940942 2025-10-16 14:06:28 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635940942 New Scientist (Education Edition) – Real articles + student subs kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635944593 2025-10-16 14:08:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635944593 Isaac Science – Free problem sets, quizzes and reading kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635945979 2025-10-16 14:09:31 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635945979 Science Museum Learning – KS3/4 – Exhibitions and short reads kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635947767 2025-10-16 14:10:37 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635947767 STEM Learning UK – Careers and Science in Context kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635948696 2025-10-16 14:11:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635948696 DoITPoMS – For budding physicists and engineers kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635949929 2025-10-16 14:11:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635949929 Mrs K Nichol recommends – The Martian kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635969852 "The Martian: Classroom Edition" by Andy Weir 

Theme: Space Exploration, Physics, Chemistry 

Summary: This special classroom edition of The Martian follows astronaut Mark Watney’s survival after being stranded on Mars. Using science and problem-solving skills, Watney tackles challenges like growing food and creating water in an alien environment. The book emphasizes resilience, creative thinking, and practical applications of science. 

Why It’s Suitable: It’s filled with real-world science but presented in an exciting and approachable way, making it perfect for students interested in space and survival challenges. 

]]> 2025-10-16 14:24:01 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635969852 Mrs F Bell recommends - How to Clone a Mammoth kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635971557 "How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-Extinction"

by Beth Shapiro 

Theme: Genetics, Biotechnology, Ecology 

Summary: This book explores the fascinating science behind de-extinction, discussing whether we could or should bring extinct species like the woolly mammoth back to life. It introduces students to concepts of cloning, DNA, and ecological ethics. 

Why It’s Suitable: It engages students with modern biotechnology and genetics while raising ethical questions that are perfect for class discussions. 

]]> 2025-10-16 14:25:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635971557 Mrs S Orton recommends - The Science of Harry Potter kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635973199 "The Science of Harry Potter: How Magic Really Works" by Roger Highfield 

Theme: Physics, Chemistry, Biology 

Summary: This fun and educational book uses the world of Harry Potter to explain real-world science. From the invisibility cloak to flying broomsticks, the author breaks down the science behind what could make these fictional concepts possible. 

Why It’s Suitable: It links popular culture with real science, making complex ideas like quantum physics and genetics easier to grasp and exciting for young readers. 

]]> 2025-10-16 14:25:57 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635973199 Mr A Riddick recommends – Secret Science kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635974727 "Secret Science: The Amazing World Beyond Your Eyes" by Dara Ó Briain 

Theme: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Everyday Science 

Summary: Comedian and science presenter Dara Ó Briain explains the science of everyday things, from the workings of our senses to the technology behind gadgets. It’s an accessible, humorous introduction to scientific ideas that impact students’ daily lives. 

Why It’s Suitable: The book uses humour and simple explanations, making it engaging for KS3 students who may be new to complex science topics. 

]]> 2025-10-16 14:26:51 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635974727 Miss E Little recommends - The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635976292 "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly 

Theme: Evolution, Natural History, Biology 

Summary: Set in the early 1900s, this novel follows 11-year-old Calpurnia as she explores the natural world with her grandfather, a naturalist. The story focuses on her growing interest in science and the challenges she faces in a society where girls are not encouraged to pursue such interests. 

Why It’s Suitable: It combines historical fiction with biological concepts, particularly evolution, and inspires curiosity about nature and scientific discovery. 

]]> 2025-10-16 14:27:39 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635976292 Mr C Wilkinson recommends - Exploring the Elements kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635978094 "Exploring the Elements: A Complete Guide to the Periodic Table" by Isabel Thomas and Sara Gillingham 

Theme: Chemistry, Elements, Periodic Table 

Summary: This visually engaging book introduces students to all 118 elements in the periodic table. It explains each element’s properties, uses, and history in an easy-to-understand format with vibrant illustrations. 

Why It’s Suitable: The book simplifies complex chemical concepts and presents them in a way that’s both informative and visually appealing, making it ideal for younger KS3 students just starting to learn about chemistry. 

]]> 2025-10-16 14:28:35 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635978094 Mr B Forrest recommends – Rocket Boys kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635992381 "Rocket Boys (also published as October Sky)" by Homer H. Hickam Jr.
Theme: Physics, Engineering, Space Exploration
Summary: This autobiographical story follows Homer Hickam, a teenager growing up in a West Virginia mining town during the 1950s. Inspired by the launch of Sputnik, Homer and his friends form a small rocket club, teaching themselves the science and engineering behind rocket design. Their determination and curiosity lead them from backyard experiments to success at the National Science Fair — and ultimately toward futures far beyond the coal mines.
Why It’s Suitable: This inspiring true story blends physics and engineering with perseverance and curiosity, showing KS3 readers how science can change lives. It highlights the power of experimentation, teamwork, and following your dreams — perfect for sparking an interest in space and the possibilities of STEM careers.

]]> 2025-10-16 14:36:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3635992381 Mrs E Dent recommends – What if? Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3636000835 "What If? Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions" by Randall Munroe
Theme: Physics, Maths, Real-World Science Applications
Summary: Written by former NASA roboticist and creator of the webcomic xkcd, this book explores bizarre and hilarious “what if” scenarios — like what would happen if you tried to hit a baseball moving at the speed of light, or how long humanity could survive if the sun suddenly went out. Munroe answers each question with genuine scientific reasoning, clever illustrations, and a sense of humour that makes complex ideas easy to grasp.
Why It’s Suitable: This book makes science fun, imaginative, and accessible. It encourages KS3 students to think critically, ask bold questions, and appreciate how physics and maths explain even the wildest ideas. Perfect for curious minds who like a mix of logic and laughter.

]]> 2025-10-16 14:41:39 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3636000835 Mrs C Miller recommends – The Disappearing Spoon kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3636004398 "The Disappearing Spoon (Young Readers Edition)" by Sam Kean
Theme: Chemistry, History of Science, Elements
Summary: This fascinating collection of stories brings the periodic table to life, revealing the strange, funny, and sometimes explosive tales behind the elements. From poisonous discoveries to world-changing inventions, Sam Kean uncovers how each element has shaped science, history, and even human lives — all told in a way that reads like a mystery or adventure story.
Why It’s Suitable: Ideal for KS3 students, this book shows that chemistry isn’t just about symbols and reactions — it’s about people, curiosity, and discovery. Its storytelling approach makes complex ideas memorable and exciting, sparking interest in how science connects to the real world.

]]> 2025-10-16 14:43:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3636004398 Abby B recommends - The Horible Science series kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3636021374 "Horrible Science" Series by Nick Arnold and Tony De Saulles
Theme: General Science, Humour, Curiosity
Summary: Packed with gruesome facts, silly jokes, and eye-catching cartoons, the Horrible Science series makes learning about science irresistibly fun. Each book explores a different topic — from explosive chemistry and shocking electricity to deadly diseases and fantastic forces — with a mix of humour and real scientific knowledge. Readers can laugh and learn at the same time while discovering just how weird, wonderful, and sometimes gross science can be!
Why It’s Suitable: Perfect for KS3 pupils who enjoy humour and visual learning, this series turns tricky concepts into memorable stories. It encourages curiosity and shows that science doesn’t have to be serious to be fascinating — a great choice for reluctant readers and science enthusiasts alike.

]]> 2025-10-16 14:53:50 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3636021374 Science readers leaders board kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3636036463 2025-10-16 15:03:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3636036463 Application form kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808058468 2026-03-02 12:06:51 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808058468 Masterclass info kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808059313 2026-03-02 12:07:33 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808059313 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808063786 November

📌 Challenge: Match firework colours to their correct metal ions.

ℹ️ More Info: Learn how different metals produce the bright colours you see in fireworks.

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

RSC – The Chemistry of Fireworks

Periodic Table interactive for firework colours

]]> 2026-03-02 12:11:46 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808063786 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808064589 December

📌 Challenge: Write the funniest science Christmas cracker joke!

ℹ️ More Info: Your joke should have a science twist — the punnier, the better!

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

A Very Sciency Christmas

The Science of Christmas Trees

]]> 2026-03-02 12:12:28 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808064589 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808065328 January

📌 Challenge: Find a science-themed book/biography and write a one-sentence blurb.

ℹ️ More Info: Make your blurb catchy and exciting so others are inspired to read the book.

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

27 Famous Scientists & their Inventions

Albert Einstein: 10 Fun Facts (Nat Geo Kids)

]]> 2026-03-02 12:13:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808065328 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808065725 February

📌 Challenge: Create a HEART acrostic poem using biology words.

ℹ️ More Info: Each line of your poem should start with the letters in 'HEART'.

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

Learn CPR in 15 Minutes – BHF RevivR

CPR in Schools (BHF Classroom RevivR)

]]> 2026-03-02 12:13:33 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808065725 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808066056 March

📌 Challenge: Pick a book with a number in the title and link the number to a maths/science idea.

ℹ️ More Info: Get creative linking your book choice to a real maths or science concept.

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

Life of Pi Education Pack

TeachingBooks 'Life of Pi' resources

]]> 2026-03-02 12:13:50 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808066056 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808066281 April

📌 Challenge: Design a slogan/poster to reduce plastic waste.

ℹ️ More Info: Think about catchy phrases and bold imagery to inspire change.

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

Make an Earth Day Sign – EarthDay.org

100+ Sustainability Slogan Ideas

]]> 2026-03-02 12:14:06 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808066281 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808066554 May

📌 Challenge: Pick a sci-fi or astronomy book and rewrite its title as an emoji code.

ℹ️ More Info: Use emojis creatively to represent the words or ideas in the title.

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

NASA Star Finder – DIY constellation wheel

Stellarium Web – Interactive star map

]]> 2026-03-02 12:14:23 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808066554 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808066887 June

📌 Challenge: Choose a YA sci-fi book and rate one technology/biology idea’s plausibility.

ℹ️ More Info: Consider if the science could work in real life!

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

Hard Sci-Fi vs Soft Sci-Fi explained

World-Building Sci-Fi Group Chat

]]> 2026-03-02 12:14:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808066887 kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808067252 July

📌 Challenge: Write a 3-bullet micro-explainer of a summer science idea.

ℹ️ More Info: Keep each bullet short and punchy.

🏅 Prize: The exclusive Science Readers Badge
🎁 Plus: A surprise science-themed novelty gift

🔗 Explore More:

Newman Science Readers Padlet

Sunscreen Experiment – Summer Science

Science Buddies: Flame Test & Fireworks

]]> 2026-03-02 12:15:00 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3808067252 Jack J kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3813569006 2026-03-05 15:41:00 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3813569006 Jacek D kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3813569922 2026-03-05 15:41:50 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3813569922 Joyce K kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3813570207 2026-03-05 15:42:06 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3813570207 Evan H kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3813571973 2026-03-05 15:43:35 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3813571973 Lottie B recommends - Astro science for Supervillains kathrynnichol https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3819666783 Title: Astro science for Supervillains

Author: Dr Matthew Bothwell

Genre: Space science, Non-Fiction.

Astro science for supervillains is a fun, laugh out loud book that explores the secrets of space in a tone that is easy to understand. I love the way that it informed and educated me while also engaging me and causing me to laugh. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in space because the style of writing is accessible to all ages. I would rate it 5 stars.

]]> 2026-03-10 15:41:28 UTC https://padlet.com/kathrynnichol/swbdebn6psy76qdz/wish/3819666783