Science

"It was fun and interesting when we learnt about teeth, diet and animal adaptations. We questioned, discussed and investigated further." Robyn

Intent: What is our Science curriculum vision?

At Hadlow Primary School we facilitate an enriching, inclusive science curriculum. Underpinning all lessons, we question, investigate and explore; creating a culture of critical thinking and resilience. We make links within and across subjects; building curiosity, enthusiasm and awareness of science in daily life, within our community and through different career paths. Making connections through the natural and physical world, we develop a clear understanding of how science relates to our lives.

By building upon prior knowledge, and by using retrieval strategies, we ensure that children have a conceptual understanding and have the opportunity to explore and develop their sense of scientific enquiry.

The National Curriculum for Science aims to ensure that all pupils:

develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics
develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them
are equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future

"Science is my favorite subject because I like exploring, experimenting and learning something new every time! I loved our rocket experiments in Year 5!" Leo

Year 6 Science Fair:

Implementation: What does Science teaching and learning look like across the school?

The National Curriculum is our starting point, which determines our coverage. We then use a number of supporting document and schemes to support and extend learning opportunities (Developing Experts, Making Primary Science Assessment Work by Andrew Berry, Bespoke Vocabulary Progression document, Outstanding Science and STEM)
Science is taught weekly in sequenced topics and lessons
We also have timetable flexibility, which gives further time to extend Science learning to a full day or an afternoon, this gives crucial time to explore, question and adapt
EYFS Science beings with ‘Understanding of the World,’ in Apple Class children ask questions and ‘wonder’ at the world around them
Throughout the school we use creative exploration: elicitation techniques, questioning and ‘cold tasks’ to determine what they already know, what they can remember and to identify any learning gaps
Key Science Knowledge taught through each specific topic area, many of these are repeated and progression is built in with retrieval
Science Skills are highlighted in every lesson with our progressive skills based toolkits and the 5 main enquiry areas
Science vocabulary is a priority and is evident in classrooms, displays, books and within child discussions – we also have a bespoke Science Vocabulary Progression document which ensures that vocabulary understanding is emphasised across the school
The Class Teacher will model an experiment, which will then be followed by child-led investigations or linked progressive experiments
Children are supported and challenged further by pre-teaching, visual and physical resources, small group learning, adult support, targeted questioning, differentiated activities and/or outcomes and opportunities to lead, present and investigate further
Wherever possible we make clear links to ‘real world’ scenarios, key scientists, future careers, news events, global issues and other subjects (cross-curricular learning is key to connectionist thinking)
Outdoor Learning is a big part of our Science learning at Hadlow Primary School, we have a wonderful outdoor space which includes an allotment, wildlife area and a nature pond
Assessment tasks range from verbal questions and response, to ‘low stakes’ quizzes and posters, to retrieval grids and end of topic mini tests
Assessment is used as a tool to adapt and improve planning (support and challenge)