Science

‘Scientists have become the bearers of the torch of discovery in our quest for knowledge.’

Stephen Hawking

As teachers of science we will… 

…teach a well-sequenced science curriculum where the National Curriculum and EYFS Framework is covered through age-appropriate topics which stimulate and encourage our children to be curious, observe and make connections about themselves and the world around them. Through our scientific big questions, we aim to stimulate a child’s curiosity in asking and answering questions as they use their subject knowledge and senses to find out why things happen in the way they do.

As our young children become ‘scientists’ they will work and think scientifically and develop good scientific skills, knowledge and understanding and use subject-specific vocabulary to talk about their ideas and findings. First hand and real-life opportunities through scientific investigation and experiments enables them to make meaning and connections to real life whilst bringing science to life. For example, in Year One children make a model of a working stomach using a range of kitchen substances to enable them to understand how food is digested. In Year Two pupils are encouraged to apply their reading skills to becomes scientific researchers to find out about habitats beyond our local environment and the animals that live in them. 

The following key scientific concepts are covered and built upon across the Key Stage One curriculum:

• Research. Seeking to answer questions through collecting and presenting data
• Observing over time
• Identifying, grouping and classifying
• Pattern seeking
• Using equipment and fair testing

Science is further enhanced through daily routines classroom provision areas and displays. For example, classes have a daily dashboard which provides daily opportunities for pupils to explore the seasons and the weather. Picture news also provides the children with regular opportunity to discuss and debate real-life and current issues which are impacting the world in which they live. For example, climate change and the effects on habitats and the animals that live in them. 

Science is further enhanced through the range of educational visits, provision and after school clubs which are offered. For example, the Eco Warriors explore the impact that people and materials have on the eco-system as well as also promoting national and global events such as Earth Hour and Earth Day. They support pupils in finding ways to look after our environment and the world we live in. Whole school initiatives and awards such as our Hygge parent and child workshops and our ‘Environment Awards’ help children explore further nature, wildlife and plants within our outdoors and local environment.   

Science is taught as a discrete subject. However, cross curricular links are also made where this is relevant. For example, the ‘World War Two’ topic allows pupils to explore the properties of materials and pupils are given the opportunity to investigate which materials would make the best Anderson shelter. Topic ‘wows’ act as a driver for scientific interest and enquiry and wherever possible real-life, hands on experiences are planned to add context and meaning to scientific concepts. For example, pupils in Year One learn about the fish by exploring the structure of a real fish from the fishmongers. Pupils observe a wide range of animals through visitors in school such as ‘Creature Ark’. This enables first hand experiences, opportunities to handle a wide range of animals and ask questions of experts and to discuss the adaptations the animal has. 

Recap and review activities to begin science lessons build upon prior knowledge and ensure that pupils are grasping a good understanding of scientific terminology. Questioning is carefully used to check understanding and prior knowledge. Modelling is used by class teachers to clarify expectations and pupils are then given plentiful opportunities to consolidate, build upon and apply basic skills and knowledge, across a series of lessons, as well as across the year.

National Curriculum 2014

In science, pupils will have the opportunity to:

• ask simple questions and recognise that they can be answered in different ways
• observe closely, using simple equipment
• perform simple tests
• identify and classify
• use their observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions
• gather and record data to help answer questions.

Pupils will be able to develop their knowledge and skills as scientists by:

• using their five senses
• asking and answering questions
• making predictions about what they think might happen
• planning and investigating
• saying why and how things happen
• using a range of scientific equipment and resources
• recording their ideas and findings
• evaluating their own work and say how this can be improved.