Science
Intent
In science, we will inspire and engage our children by giving them lots of opportunity to practically pursue their curiosity in the world around us within a safe environment, developing a continually evolving knowledge and understanding. We promote the experience of investigating and thoughtfully questioning scientific phenomena with a problem-solving approach and a focus on developing scientific vocabulary. Our aim is to encourage our young scientists to become confident, life-long learners who are able to apply core skills across the curriculum which will then equip them for an ever-changing world.
Our principles for science
We will know science is going well at SMCPS when....
● Children are engaged in their learning
● There are practical investigations
● It promotes children’s questioning and discussion
● Children make links in their learning and extend their knowledge
● Children are developing and using their scientific vocabulary
● Key scientific skills are being developed
These principles are referred to during lessons using the image below so that children understand
what it is to be a good scientist and can discuss key scientific skills.
Implementation
Science at SMCPS is taught through practical lessons wherever possible developing the skills of working scientifically alongside subject knowledge and vocabulary. The objectives for science in EYFS, KS1 and KS2 are clearly set out for each year group in the EYFS framework and the National Curriculum.
Each half term there is a focus on one aspect of working scientifically across the whole school.
EYFS
Science is taught in EYFS as an integral part of the topic work covered during the year. Ongoing scientific experiences and opportunities are planned from the objectives set out in the EYFS Framework. Understanding of the World ensure children develop early scientific ideas and processes through hands on activities, practical exploration and outdoor experiences. This is further supported by a trip to Rosemoor during their EYFS year.
Key Stage 1
Science is taught in Key Stage 1 on a weekly basis through practical lessons which link to topic work where possible.
Key Stage 2
Science is taught in Key Stage 2 in year groups on a Monday afternoon. This is to ensure that every child covers the objectives in the national curriculum in addition to taking their learning further in practical investigations. This means that your child may not be taught Science by their class teacher.
Lesson structure for Key Stage 1 and 2
What makes a good scientist? - children review the skills required to be successful in science
Working scientifically focus- children focus on their working scientifically skill for the half term, discussing or completing activities linked to this
Review- children are given questions that require them to retrieve previously taught material to help embed learning in their long-term memory.
Vocabulary- key terminology is shared with the children so they are able to speak/explain using accurate language concisely.
Taught content- new knowledge is shared with the children or they are guided into setting up their own investigation
Independent or group work- Children apply/share/practise their knowledge independently or in groups
Enrichment
In addition to the EYFS and NC objectives being delivered to the children, there are other enrichment opportunities provided to enable children to engage with science and to promote and enthuse the passion for science across the school. Every year we celebrate science week across the whole school and aim to have all children participate in at least one national science competition. Many of our trips and residentials involve an aspect of science learning and we actively encourage visitors to the school to promote science linked careers.