Science
Intent
At Walderslade Primary School we believe that pupils need to acquire the key scientific knowledge and concepts through practical first-hand learning experiences. We will encourage our pupils to be curious about natural phenomena and to be excited by the process of understanding the world around them. We will provide pupils with opportunities to develop their independent scientific enquiry skills through rich, stimulating learning experiences. We will promote an atmosphere that encourages pupils to explore and challenge their thinking by asking and answering questions to investigate, making predictions and then conducting experiments. We aspire for pupils to have the self-confidence to clearly explain their reasoning using scientific vocabulary. To have a positive self- esteem to learn that sometimes our predictions may not be correct and develop the resilience to discover why using their prior knowledge and understanding across the curriculum.
Implementation
The National Curriculum in England & statutory framework for the EYFS 2014 Framework for Science is used as a basis for curriculum planning to ensure year group outcomes are met. The programme of study describes a sequence of scientific knowledge and concepts to ensure pupils develop secure understanding of each key block of knowledge and concepts in order to progress to the next level. At Walderslade Primary School Knowledge Organisers are shared with pupils and parents. These explain key scientific concepts and vocabulary. Teachers will provide practical opportunities in class for pupils to apply their skills and allow pupils to articulate their knowledge clearly and precisely.
Pupils will be exposed to a range of engaging and stimulating science lessons in all three disciplines biology, chemistry and physics that cover: plants, animals (including humans), materials, seasonal change, habitats, rocks, light, forces, states of matter, sound, electricity, earth and space and evolution and inheritance. Our science lessons are often embedded within our termly topics but may be taught as discrete units. Through exciting hooks, pupils will develop independent scientific enquiry skills such as observing over time; pattern seeking; identifying, classifying and grouping; comparative and fair testing (controlled investigations); and researching using secondary sources. Pupils will be encouraged to carry out simple tests and experiments using scientific equipment to gather and record data to use and build on their scientific and mathematical knowledge to draw conclusions.
Throughout the school, pupils will have the opportunity to further develop their scientific curiosity through dedicated science days, visits from specialists and through discussions on current scientific developments.
Science in the Early Years is taught through a mix of adult-led and child-initiated activities that encourage pupils to start to develop basic scientific vocabulary and concepts through challenging, practical, purposeful play-based activities. Pupils will engage with these activities to develop an understanding of scientific enquiry and to meet the EYFS outcomes focusing on the specific area of Understanding the World with all the prime areas interlinked.
Whole School Progression Map - Science
Whole School Vocabulary Map - Science
