Class 8/9 have completed a Probability and Possibility maths main lesson where we investigated the quirks of factorials, permutations, combinations, and distinguishable arrangements. It was quite a brain bender to learn that in their class there are 51,090,942,172,000,000,000 possible seating plans. Making sure that students are sat in productive combinations is something that keeps Jiffy and myself awake at night. They also learnt how Pascals triangle was instrumental in the development of probability theory, and it’s importance in making informed decisions.

We then moved onto another Physics main lesson, investigating internal combustion engines (ICE) and their history. These machines are marvels of mechanical engineering and use several phenomena that we’ve previously looked at, such as the venturi effect. We also delved into the history and massive impact of these engines on society.

On September the 2^nd we had an excursion to the Machinery Restoration Group. The members were excited to have the students visit and prepared a great number of demonstrations. The students diligently took notes and showed great maturity, listening and asking questions. We all really enjoyed our morning there. The following day students wrote up a short piece on one of the engines that interested them, from a physics and historical perspective.

In class we continue to look at various engine types and cycles and hopefully next week we will have the opportunity to dismantle some lawnmowers and whipper snippers. If time permits this term, we will start looking into the electrical transformation of automobiles. I’m excited to be teaching this topic as it was an important part of my previous engineering career.

Overall, students have been working well with a few lumps and bumps, much like my burgeoning teaching career. It’s a pleasure to be able to see these young people grow into themselves, finding direction and ever more independence and self-reliance.

John