Explorify: A Hidden Gem for Science Teachers of All Levels

If you're anything like me—a resource magpie—you'll know the thrill of discovering a shiny new resource. You "steal" it, stash it away, and wait for the perfect opportunity to swoop in and use it. For science teachers, this habit of collecting valuable teaching tools is almost second nature. We’re always on the lookout for resources that spark curiosity and deepen understanding, whether we teach primary or secondary students. 

A few years ago, I was shown Explorify while supporting feeder schools with science teaching. It immediately struck me as a fantastic resource—but clearly designed with a primary audience in mind. So, naturally, I tucked it away for future use. 

Fast forward to a recent conversation I had with my former colleague, Rachel, who now works in Learning Support at a secondary school in Scotland. To my surprise, she’s been using Explorify regularly in her secondary science lessons. Her experience opened my eyes to how flexible and engaging this resource truly is, regardless of age group. 

Take, for example, a recent lesson where Rachel used the “decaying leaf” activity (a question asking, "How long does it take to rot?") as a lesson starter. Not only did it immediately hook the students, but it also served as a brilliant assessment tool. It helped her gauge their prior knowledge about decomposition, sparking a rich class discussion about what’s happening beneath the surface.

https://explorify.uk/en/activities/the-big-question/how-long-does-it-take-for-a-leaf-to-rot 

This one image alone led to an entire investigation into the conditions required for decay, guided by the activity’s overview. The hands-on exploration continued—at least until the smell became a bit too authentic! Rachel plans to return to the decaying leaf image over time to assess her students' progress and revisit key concepts. She’s also incorporating related activities as bell tasks and extension exercises. For instance, she’ll soon dive into why leaves change colour in the autumn, a question sure to lead to even more exciting discoveries. 

What I love about Rachel’s approach is how she has used Explorify a really effective primary resource and adapted it to her secondary context. It’s a tool for fostering scientific thinking and enquiry at any level. The open-ended nature of these activities encourages students to ask questions, test their assumptions, and explore the ‘why’ behind the science. 

So, if you’ve been hesitant to try Explorify in your classroom because you think it’s too geared toward younger students—don’t be. There’s a treasure trove of activities waiting to be discovered, adapted, and enjoyed by learners of all ages. 

Whether you’re looking for thought-provoking starters, engaging extensions, or ways to bring abstract concepts to life, Explorify is a resource worth exploring. Who knows? It might just become your new favourite shiny object to “steal” for your next science lesson.