Science Curriculum- Statement of Intent:

At St Richard’s First School it is our aim to develop children’s knowledge, skills and understanding, as well as a sense of enjoyment, in science. We do this in a variety of ways, through whole class teaching to enquiry based research activities.

 We encourage the children to ask, as well as answer, scientific questions and children have the opportunity to use a range of equipment to enhance their learning. Wherever possible, children are involved in practical activities as these increase enthusiasm and motivation. They also provide the children with first-hand experiences. We aim for all children to work scientifically during lessons and work collaboratively investigating different concepts and ideas.

It is our intention that by the end of their time at St Richards, each child will understand a variety of scientific concepts and be able to discuss them confidently. We strive to promote a love of science and for children to understand and be curious about the science within their everyday lives.

Purpose of study:

A high-quality science education provides the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity, and all pupils should be taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils should be encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They should be encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.

Aims:

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 lessons at St Richard's:

Each half term every year group has a Science theme. Lessons are exciting and engaging with lots of hands on practical experiments. Skills of scientific enquiry are taught across the term with a focus on how to write up experiments and an emphasis on the correct terminology and vocabulary.

Progression of knowledge and skills:

Our knowledge organisers: