The Bowland Trust: CRASH TEST
“Many youngsters are turned off by Maths and making maths lesson enjoyable and absorbing is a real challenge. Crash test dummies does just that. Youngsters are immediately hooked and content is designed to support take up by busy teachers. Importantly the solution is not trying for a stealth approach to Maths teaching. This is overtly a Maths lesson - but one which is great fun.” Ian Haynes, Learning Director: Cimex
The Brief: The Bowland Trust is a government funded initiative that has commissioned the development of a series of UK-wide case studies for Maths at Key Stage 3. The case studies are to be used as a teacher-led resource, in the classroom via interactive whiteboards, as well as autonomously in ICT suites. The aims and objectives are twofold: firstly, to enthuse and engage the interest of pupils aged 11-13 over 3-5 lessons, and secondly to develop the pupils’ skills of thinking, reasoning, analysing, interpreting and problem solving.
The Solution: After conducting extensive user and market research, Cimex developed the compelling Crash Test; a game that combines highly engaging 3D animation with humour and investigative approaches. Learning is collaborative, with pupils working in groups to devise car-related hypotheses. They then conduct a series of ‘crash tests’, choosing from variables such as car speed, car type and collision point, collate and represent their data and present their findings to the class.
Highlights include:
- Differentiation to cater for a range of learning styles and attainment levels
- Contains all printed materials that are required for conducting the lesson, including worksheets and teachers’ notes
- On-demand help via the Crash Test Dummy
- A multitude of videos, animations and outputs
- Cross-curricular links to PSHE, Citizenship and Science
‘This is so funny, I like it. Can other lessons be like this?’ (Pupil 13yrs old)
‘This is really good; we can use it over a series of lessons… I am up for it.’ (Maths teacher, KS3)
‘This is brilliant; the kids will just love it. They really enjoy ICT lessons, this will go down well!’ (Head teacher of Maths KS3)
‘What does this have to do with Maths? It is funny and easy to use!’ (Pupil, 12 yrs old)
‘The dummy makes so many funny faces, he is cool but he never dies!’ (Pupil, 11 yrs old)
