Simulations and graphical modelling

From FreeICT

Simulations

Big Day Out contains a large number of regional-based simulations, many of which are great for Science and/or Maths.

Science

Crocodile Clips Elementary- free program to download, simulating making electrical circuits

Duck Builder- designing a duck to be aerodynamic, but not too much!

BBC Science Clips- mostly simulation games, with quizzes, linking to the QCA Science Scheme of Work

Big Al Game- simulating trying to survive as a baby dinosaur: great for studying habitats and food chains/ webs

BBC Space has an interactive space map among other things.

Roller Coaster teaches friction, gravity and other forces while you control a roller coaster.

Maths

Lemonade Game- a mathematical simulation, calculating and taking risks to make profit selling lemonade

History

BBC Interactive History- games including building a mummy and launching a successful Viking raid

Move It game modelling different transport methods in 1850.

Geography

Google Earth- so much more than just a simulation, but you can simulate travelling around places. If you haven't used Google Earth yet for Geography and more, do so: it's brilliant!

My Sust House is a modelling activity for creating an environmentally friendly house.

Graphical modelling ideas

Ikea has a range of little programs for arranging furniture. Children can design their ideal kitchen, wardrobe, bathroom or garden.

Northumberland have this classroom designing tool.

However, the most powerful free graphical modelling tool around is undoubtedly Google Sketchup. This is an amazing (and amazingly easy, if you use their tutorial) 3D designing tool, enabling you to create graphical models of anything at all. Fantastic!