Working with the University of Southampton's Education Department, we have produced a number of free, curriculum-linked resources for primary-aged educational groups to make use of at Mottisfont. You can download teacher information and pupil worksheets here.
All the resources you can download here are as PDFs, but please don't hesitate to email helping.mottisfont@nationaltrust.org.uk if you'd like the files in another format.
Finding Your Way With Maps and a Compass
These resources will introduce the use of a compass and enhance the understanding and use of simple maps. The two worksheets give practical experience of using a compass and map to find specific features.
Curriculum links: KS1 and KS2 Geographical Skills and Fieldwork
This activity encourages children to look really carefully using magnifying glasses and then to draw their chosen leaf. From this they can then enjoy the process of making a sun print.
Science enquiry objectives: Observing closely and using simple Scientific Equipment. Identifying and Classifying. Recording findings using simple scientific language, drawings.
The font at Mottisfont is a natural source of water that flows from an underground reservoir. Pupils can carry out a scientific investigation here to discover the flow rate of the stream.
Curriculum link: Scientific Enquiry Objectives UKS2: I can take measurements of time with increasing accuracy and precision, taking repeat reading and record my own data on a table.
Measuring Light and Temperature using a Data Logger
Use data loggers (available from Mottisfont – please ask when planning your visit) to give pupils experience in the use of practical scientific methods, processes and skills.
Curriculum links: KS1 & KS2 Working Scientifically
These activities offer opportunities for children to explore the grounds of Mottisfont in an engaging and inspiring way while developing observational, creative and evaluative skills.
Use open questions whilst following our "Mottisfont Wild Play Map” (available to collect when you do your pre-visit) to help children build their own stories.
Curriculum link: KS1/2 Literacy: Composition - articulating ideas and structuring these in speech and writing.
Study gears in action at Mottisfont and carry out a comparative investigation.
Curriculum link: Forces Year 5. Learning Objectives/Success Criteria: I understand that some mechanisms allow a smaller force to have a greater effect. I can recognise that gears allow a smaller force to have a greater effect.