INTENT
At St Robert Southwell Catholic Primary School, our intent for Science is for our children:
We want every child to see themselves as a scientist and never stop being amazed by the wonders our world has to offer; to carry on asking questions and explore the possibilities open to them.
IMPLEMENTATION
Science is taught throughout the school in weekly lessons and is delivered by class teachers. The school follows a comprehensive scheme of work in line with the National Curriculum where teaching and learning shows progression across all key stages within the strands of Science. Other sources may also be used to enhance the lessons in order to meet the needs of the children. The scheme of Work also contains the most appropriate scientific vocabulary to be used when studying a particular area of science, a list of the scientists who are working, or have worked, in that particular area of science and practical activities to support the learning.
EYFS
In Early Years, children engage in scientific activities through their study and acquirement of Understanding the World (UW). Reception pupils follow the Early Years Curriculum for UW and are assessed initially against Development Matters criteria, moving to the Early Years Profile towards the end of their Reception year.
Key Stage 1
The principal focus of science teaching in Key Stage 1 is to enable pupils to experience and observe phenomena, looking more closely at the natural and humanly-constructed world around them. During years 1 and 2, pupils should be taught to use the following practical scientific methods, processes and skills through the teaching of the programme of study content:
These will be taught through the following topics:
Lower key Stage 2
The principal focus of science teaching in years 3 & 4 is to enable pupils to broaden their scientific view of the world around them. They should do this through
These will be taught through the following topics:
Upper key Stage 2
The principal focus of science teaching in upper Key Stage 2 is to enable pupils to develop a deeper understanding of a wide range of scientific ideas. They should do this through:
These will be taught through the following topics:
Progress is monitored by the Science Subject Leader through book looks to ensure consistency, progression, coverage and a balance between teacher led and practical activities and moderation between year groups.
IMPACT
The children at St Robert Southwell are confident scientists who can talk about the investigations that they have undertaken. The children take part in British Science Week activities and other science enrichment days at local secondary schools such as Solving Crime With Science Day at Christ’s Hospital. Children enjoy talking about Science and show a good understanding of the concepts that they have learnt. Children word collaboratively and practically to investigate and experiment. They are able to question ideas and reflect on knowledge. They possess a richer vocabulary which enables them to articulate their understanding of taught concepts.