Science
Intent
Across the Green Hills First Federation we intend to deliver a high-quality science curriculum that gives all children a strong understanding of the world around them. We aim high so children acquire the skills and knowledge to help them to think scientifically and gain an understanding of scientific processes for today and for the future. It is our vision to instil a lifelong love of science within our children, enabling them to have high aspirations and be aware of all future possibilities.
We aim for all pupils to foster and develop their curiosity and to ask scientific questions about the world they live in. We expose children to a of a variety of practical learning, using scientific equipment and opportunities for critical evaluation of evidence and proof while equipping them with the moral values of respect for living organisms and the physical environment.
We look for the awe and wonder in the world around us and celebrate our part in this. Through our Christian or individual beliefs, we develop our spirituality and opportunities for reflection and gain an appreciation of the richness and power of science in our everyday lives.
Implementation
Science is often taught as discrete units and lessons in order to ensure coverage; it is also delivered through cross-curricular activities so that learning is maximised and children see science in every area of life.
Science is normally taught as part of a half-termly topic, focusing on the working scientifically skills and knowledge stated in the National Curriculum. It is taught on a rolling programme to ensure all key skills and knowledge are taught and revisited throughout both Key Stages.
Teachers’ planning ensures that investigations and scientific enquiry is developed in line with the curriculum in order to enhance knowledge acquisition and conceptual development. Activities are planned to ensure that working scientifically is embedded into the topic being taught. Challenge is also an integral part of planning and teaching in order to develop critical thinking. Children are provided with regular opportunities to develop strategies for questioning and thinking. Self-assessment, independence and autonomy are encouraged in order to ensure the children learn to be scientific critical thinkers. Use of technical, scientific vocabulary is planned for and encouraged throughout science lessons and in other learning and school experiences.
We recognise the importance of first hand learning and plan opportunities to enrich our science curriculum further by taking opportunities to learn outside of the classroom and on through educational visits.
Impact
Children not only acquire the appropriate age related knowledge linked to the science curriculum, but also skills which equip them to progress from their starting points, and within their everyday lives.
All children will have:
A wider variety of skills linked to both scientific knowledge and understanding, and scientific enquiry/investigative skills.
A richer vocabulary which will enable to articulate their understanding of taught concepts.
High aspirations, which will see them through to further study, work and a successful adult life.