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 Developing Experts to support and extend learning opportunities (Developing Experts, Making Primary Science Assessment Work by Andrew Berry, 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 which gives crucial time to explore, question and adapt.
EYFS Science begins with ‘Understanding of the World,’ in Apple Class where children ask questions and ‘wonder’ at the world around them
Key science knowledge is taught through each specific topic areas; 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. The Class Teacher will model an experiment (when appropriate), 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.
Impact
- 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)