Science

Intent

At St Michael’s Primary School, our intention is to equip children with the skills which will enable them to confidently explore and discover the world around them, so that they have a deeper understanding of the world we live in. We aim to create fun and stimulating science lessons that nurture children’s natural curiosity and their on-going development. Our curriculum promotes questioning, challenge, working practically, investigating, evaluating, making choices, working independently and using scientific vocabulary. Children will develop an understanding of how important and relevant science is to their lives, now and in the future in a world which is changing rapidly. We aim to promote a love of science which inspires and excites pupils to consider a future career in the sciences.

By the end of Year 6 pupils will

• Have a broad scientific knowledge of the aspects of biology, chemistry and physics which they have studied.
• To confidently and accurately use scientific vocabulary.
• Pose scientific questions about the world around them.
• Carry out investigations, making predictions and drawing their own conclusions based on the results they obtain.

Early Years Building Blocks

• Using our senses to explore the natural world
• Promoting natural curiosity, exploration and experimentation

Implementation

Science is taught weekly in discrete lessons from years 1 to 6. In Foundation Stage, Science is a part of Understanding of the World and may be taught through themes, or through exploration of the natural world.

Links will be made to other areas of the curriculum including computing, geography, DT, PSHE and music.

We ensure high standards of teaching and learning in science where CDP is strongly encouraged.

We implement a curriculum that is progressive from Foundation Stage to Year 6. Units of work build knowledge and investigative skills. There are opportunities to revisit prior learning and overcome misconceptions.

We utilise resources from White Rose to support the delivery of the curriculum in science. Learning is broken down into small steps which are covered sequentially.

Opportunities to work practically are encouraged.

Trips to reinforce and broaden knowledge and experience form a valuable part of our hands- on learning opportunities.

Curiosity and questioning are valued.

Each unit of study enables children to answer scientific questions about the world around them.

Impact

Assessments at the end of Year 6 demonstrate that children leave St Michael’s with a good understanding of science, including those pupils who are considered to be disadvantaged. The use of formative assessment throughout the school allows teachers to evaluate children’s progress and make adjustment or adaptation where they are needed. Pupils speak positively about their experience of science in all year groups with some aspiring to peruse careers in the sciences. The majority of the older children feel ready for the transition to secondary school and the Key Stage 3 curriculum. In discussions with all age groups, pupils are able to accurately use scientific vocabulary to explain the skills and concepts they have been taught. Pupils participate in lessons with enthusiasm and confidence, enjoying opportunities to participate in investigations and research-based learning activities.