Subject Leader - Mrs H Thomas
What do we want our pupils to learn?
Our science teaching aims to develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena and an understanding of how the scientific community contributes to the past, present and future.
The curriculum aims for pupils to develop an early knowledge of biology, chemistry and physics but also to begin to develop a broad range of skills in working scientifically and beyond. The scheme of work is inclusive and meaningful so all pupils may experience the joy of science and make associations between their science learning and their lives outside the classroom. Studying science allows pupils to appreciate how new knowledge and skills can be fundamental to solving arising global challenges.
The curriculum aims to encourage critical thinking and empower pupils to question the hows and whys of the world around them.
Our lessons encourage:
● A strong focus on developing knowledge alongside scientific skills across biology, chemistry and physics.
● Curiosity and excitement about familiar and unknown observations.
● Challenging misconceptions and demystifying truths.
● Continuous progression by building on practical and investigative skills across all units.
● Critical thinking, with the ability to start to ask perceptive questions and explain and analyse evidence.
● Development of scientific literacy using wide-ranging, specialist vocabulary
What we are teaching...
Reception
Animal Adventures
Exploring animals big and small on the school grounds and further afield, identifying similarities and differences and sorting animals into groups.
Changing Seasons
A taught across the year: observing how the natural world transforms through the year and recognising how these changes affect the weather, plants and animals.
I am a Scientist
Encouraging curiosity, the children explore the natural world through hands-on investigation, discovering how processes and changes occur around us.
Year 1
Seasonal Changes
Exploring how seasonal changes affect trees, weather patterns and daylight hours.
Everyday Materials
Comparing and grouping materials based on their properties.
Sensitive Bodies
Identifying and naming body parts and conducting practical activities with the senses to spot patterns and answer questions.
Comparing Animals
Comparing and grouping animals based on similarities and differences in their characteristics, physical features and diets.
Introduction to Plants
Identifying and naming a variety of plants and investigating if beans need water for growth.
Investigating Science through Stories
Consolidating knowledge of plants and animals through picture books and practical investigations.
Year 2
Habitats
Discovering plants and animals in a range of habitats.
Microhabitats
Asking questions about minibeasts and using scientific enquiry methods to find answers.
Uses of Everyday Materials
Comparing the suitability of materials by carrying out tests and recording data.
Life Cycles and Health
Identifying the stages of animal life cycles and carrying out tests to record growth.
Plant Growth
Investigating seeds, bulbs and plants and recognising the conditions required for germination and healthy plant growth.
Plant Based Materials
Consolidating knowledge of materials and plant growth through enquiry.
How we teach...
In EYFS (Reception), pupils build a solid foundation for science before transitioning to Key stage 1. Through hands-on exploration and focused observations, lessons spark curiosity and foster an early appreciation for the natural environment, paving the way for more structured scientific learning in Key stage 1. Lessons incorporate various teaching strategies, from independent tasks to paired and group work, including practical, creative, computer-based and collaborative tasks. This variety means that lessons are engaging and appeal to those with different learning styles. In Year 1, the transition into the Key stage is eased by providing a selection of activities: some adult-led, some independent tasks and some that can be used during continuous provision.
What pupils will have learnt to do...
The expected impact of our science teaching is that pupils will:
● Develop early scientific thinking skills through hands-on exploration and sensory experiences in EYFS (Reception).
● Develop a body of foundational knowledge for the biology, chemistry and physics topics in the National Curriculum for Key stage 1.
● Evaluate and identify the methods that ‘real world’ scientists use to develop and answer scientific questions.
● Identify and use equipment effectively to accurately gather, measure and record data.
● Be able to display and convey data in a variety of ways, including graphs where appropriate.
● Analyse data to identify, classify, group and find patterns.
● Use evidence to formulate explanations and conclusions.
● Demonstrate scientific literacy through presenting concepts and communicating ideas using scientific vocabulary.
● Understand the importance of resilience and a growth mindset, particularly in reference to scientific enquiry.
● Meet the end of key stage expectations outlined in the National curriculum for science.
