A supermarket chain has come up with a scheme to try to involve youngsters in science.

Asda - with the backing of the Education Secretary, Estelle Morris - is inviting primary and secondary school pupils to discover some of the science behind the items on a typical shopping list.

It has devised activity trails and is challenging youngsters to suggest futuristic products that they can research alongside Asda scientists.

The "Big Science" initiative is supported by Science Year, the government-backed scheme to engage schoolchildren, their teachers, parents and everyone else in science matters.

Perceptions

Estelle Morris said: "I am delighted that Asda is again striking a partnership with government to support our drive to raise standards.

"This creative initiative is supporting Science Year's aim to develop young people's interest in science, and encourage them to pursue a career in a science-related field."

Science Year director Nigel Paine said: "Science Year wants to change young people's perceptions of science and technology for ever.

"To do this we have to communicate with large numbers of school students and help them see that science drives the world they live in - it underpins their quality of life and their lifestyle and science helps deliver food on demand to a guaranteed standard.

"Asda will show thousands of children from hundreds of schools that science has an immediate, positive impact on the real world."