Spark curiosity about the people behind big scientific discoveries with this Scientist of the Day PowerPoint for Years 5 and 6. The presentation introduces five scientists from different times and places around the world: Ibn al-Haytham, Antoine Lavoisier, Michael Faraday, Tu Youyou and Emmanuelle Charpentier. Four slides are devoted to each scientist. The first gives an introduction to a field of science and explains its importance, the next two give a child-friendly introduction to the life and key discoveries of a scientist working in that field, and the final slide presents some ideas for follow-up activities that children could do in the classroom and a question to prompt further discussion.

The activities link closely to the Year 5 and Year 6 science curriculum and help develop skills for working scientifically. For example, pupils could make a camera obscura or a periscope (light), investigate magnetic force and its relationship with electricity (electricity), or create a simple model of DNA (evolution and inheritance). The slideshow works well as a daily starter across a week, with one scientist each day, or as part of a science lesson, assembly or themed event.

This resource is ideal for marking World Science Day for Peace and Development on 10 November. The day celebrates the role of science in society and the importance of science being shared by everyone. The five scientists come from Iraq, France, England and China, and their work spans thousands of years, so pupils can see that great scientific thinking comes from many cultures and backgrounds.

The presentation also fits naturally into British Science Week in March, which encourages hands-on investigation and celebrates science, technology, engineering and maths. The “Let's Learn More” activities make simple, low-cost practical investigations that could run across the week. Pupils could then share their findings in a class display or a science showcase for parents.