This Science video introduces teachers to an investigation where children build on their knowledge of electrical conductivity and explore thermal conductivity. Begin by demonstrating how heat travels through a material using spoons and paper clips. Attach paper clips along the spoon’s handle using petroleum jelly, then gently heat the spoon with a candle. As the heat travels, the jelly melts and clips drop – starting with the one closest to the heat. This models how thermal energy moves through different materials.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Science scheme – electricity. It supports teachers in guiding pupils through a fair test. Pupils test the insulating properties of three materials by wrapping cups and comparing them to an unwrapped control cup. Mark each cup for equal water levels, then an adult pours in hot water. Pupils measure temperatures every five minutes for up to thirty minutes, recording their data carefully. After the investigation, results are analysed to determine which material was the best insulator. Pupils will then rank the materials from best to worst based on how well each one kept the heat in.

Science, Upper key stage 2, Year 5, Materials: Properties and changes, Lesson 3: Conductivity