Science
We follow the requirements of the National Curriculum in science.
Teaching is planned to make links to prior learning and across the curriculum where appropriate.
All Year 1-6 pupils have regular teaching of science. Within science lessons, children will be taught scientific knowledge, science investigation and science enquiry through structured, well-prepared lessons that are clearly differentiated and structured to challenge all children. Children are encouraged to be risk takers, and reflective, developing a positive attitude to the world around them. Children are encouraged to recognise rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. Children's vocabulary will develop each year as they progress through the science curriculum.
Nursery and reception pupils will also engage in structured science activities - these may be adult-led sessions or independent science investigations, which encourage personal development.
Children are taught how science has changed our lives (making links to historical chronology) and is vital to the world's future prosperity.
Science is taught weekly. This may be two separate lessons or blocked together to maximise the time available for scientific enquiry. Teachers incorporate opportunities to assess prior learning and frequent pauses to recap on knowledge and vocabulary taught to date. They plan to revisit topics already taught at a later point in the year – ensuring that children are knowing more, remembering more and understanding more.
Enrichment
Children have opportunities to enhance their personal development through engaging in organised field work in the Bluebell Garden and Winstanley woodland walk linked to their topics.
Assessment
At the end of each topic, children are assessed against their understanding and knowledge of the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum.
How can I help my child at home?
We experience science from a very early age and it’s helpful to talk about what they can see, hear, smell, feel about the world around them.
For example:
How the trees change with the seasons.
What causes the weather to change.
Growth – how babies change as they grow; how a young pet grows; how seeds change to plants.
Cooking – why do the ingredients change in the bowl/oven/freezer?
What happens to my food when I eat?
Holidays – how does the aeroplane fly?
Toys – why do the cars roll? How can I slow them down?
Talk about science in the news – space exploration, medical innovation, environmental changes.