Transform your classroom into an investigation centre! Collect your own objects or discover real Museum specimens online. Develop and use scientific skills by making observations, asking questions and looking for evidence.
These resources support four stages of a classroom scientific investigation as inspired by the work of our Museum scientists. The resources are flexible and can be tailored in many ways to suit your class.
Share
Ideas for sharing in the classroom
The format: ‘I see, I notice, I wonder’ can be useful to get the conversation going between students to report on their investigation.
‘I see lots of bumps and it is brown all over. I noticed there are holes in the bottom. I wonder if the holes were made by insects!’
Pupils could describe a specimen using only their observations (without mentioning its name) whilst their classmates try to guess which one it is.
Pupils could take part in a ‘scientific conference’ and present their observations and ideas to their classmates. Those listening could ask questions about the specimen the speaker has been investigating.
Pupils could debate over ideas to attempt to answer a specific question. Ask them to look for evidence and try to determine which idea (if any) has the most evidence.
‘Molly’s idea is that this empty shell is from a crab. Omar’s idea is that the empty shell is from a snail. What does everyone else think? Who can see any clues, or evidence, to support one of these ideas?’
Sharing investigations can link to a wide variety of classroom topics such as making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate.
Stories from Museum staff
Hear more from Museum staff about their own investigations as the investigation process.
Investigate at School: Share
Sharing with the Museum
Share investigations and stories with us @NHM_Learn on Twitter.
Related content

Learning resources
We have a range of resources to support learning around natural history themes. For ages 5-14.