Why study Science?
Science stimulates and excites pupils’ curiosity about phenomena and events in the world around them. It also satisfies this curiosity with knowledge based on quantifiable evidence. Scientific method is about developing and evaluating explanations through experimental evidence and modelling, which is a spur to critical and creative thought. Through science, pupils understand how major scientific ideas contribute to technological change – impacting on industry, business and medicine and improving quality of life. Pupils recognise the cultural significance of science and trace its worldwide development. They learn to question and discuss science-based issues that may affect their own lives, the direction of society and the future of the world.
Intent
At Theale CE Primary School, the science curriculum is designed to be ambitious, enjoyable and knowledge rich, sparking pupils’ enthusiasm and curiosity for the world around them. The curriculum is designed to teach the children the skills required to work scientifically, provide knowledge and understanding of key processes, including the relevant technical vocabulary, and help them develop a thirst to extend their knowledge and understanding by asking questions. Through experimentation, the curriculum aims to develop an understanding of simple, comparative and fair testing, together with the mathematical, ICT and literacy skills to make observations, take measurements and record results accurately while using safe practices. The curriculum seeks to offer scientific experiences to all students in a variety of formats, encouraging an appreciation for the wonders of the world. Through the study of science, we aim to celebrate the world's diversity and inspire curiosity in our students, motivating them to explore by asking questions and making careful observations.
Implementation
Throughout the teaching of science, there is a strong emphasis on gaining knowledge. As knowledge is taught, careful explanations are delivered, with teachers modelling new principals and techniques. Students are questioned about their knowledge and encouraged to pose their own questions and lines of enquiry. Where possible, they either investigate or re-enforce their knowledge using practical experimentation. To enable the students to review lessons and the associated knowledge, Recap and Remember sessions are used for each lesson. This is in line with our curriculum policy: “Teachers plan and structure lessons with an understanding of the principles of instruction to enable pupils to hold on to their learning.” (Barak Rosenshine, 2012). At Theale, we employ specialist teachers to ensure a strong foundation in scientific knowledge, enabling them to deliver lessons with rich subject content. This approach is intended to maximize the impact on students' learning. ‘Working scientifically’ is embedded throughout the curriculum.
Impact
We assess by:
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talking to the pupils and asking questions
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discussing the work with the pupil
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looking at the work and marking against the learning objective
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observing the pupils carrying out practical tasks
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pupils’ self-evaluation of their work
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implementing low stakes informal testing
We monitor the pupils’ progress in skills by using their books, marked after each session, and these observations during lessons. We plan for further development based upon what we have observed.
In Years 1-6 an assessment sheet is completed mid-year and at the end of the academic year. Children are assessed as working towards, working at or working above the age-related expectation in science. At the end of the academic year, assessment sheets are available for the next class teacher. Assessments are communicated to parents in the children’s school reports.
At the end of foundation stage, the children are assessed against the early learning goals (ELGs). At the end of KS1 and 2, the children are assessed using teacher assessments.