Primary schools in Belfast have taken part in a massive enquiry-based lesson and try their hand at solving a "crime" using science, as part of a successful Guinness World Records attempt for Largest Practical Science Lesson.
The 1,339 students taking part also had the opportunity to talk to STEM ambassadors, and watch a W5 Science Show. The event was run by the British Council and the Royal Society of Chemistry and forms part of the inaugural Northern Ireland Science Festival.
The record breaking science lesson was part of more than 100 events have been planned to take place across Northern Ireland as part of the 11-day festival, taking place from 19th February to 1st March 2015. Events are taking place at venues including the BBC, W5, Titanic Belfast, the Black Box, the Nerve Centre and the Ulster Museum. The aim of the festival is to celebrate this region's rich scientific heritage and to engage the next generation of scientists and technology professionals.
"To complete the record they had to follow a set of specific guidelines," explained Guinness World Records adjudicator Pravin Patel, who witnessed the record attempt.
"They had to complete at least two experiments and complete a workbook, which they did - and it was fantastic. They're such an enthusiastic bunch. It's great to see school kids taking part in a large practical lesson."
The NI Science Festival is funded by the Department of Employment and Learning, Belfast City Council, Queen's University, Ulster University and the British Council.
