Science

Science offers pupils the opportunity to develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about the natural world. The method of scientific enquiry provides a way for pupils to begin to ask questions and work practically to communicate their findings.

Science Curriculum Intent

In terms of DELIVERING EQUITY, we envisage by the end of Year 6 that our pupils will recognise and value different forms of practical science and the types of enquiry available to all scientists; whether pupil or professor. They will feel confident, knowledgeable and empowered in selecting the most appropriate form of enquiry when following a line of scientific exploration.  Children leave Gossops Green with a secure foundation of scientific knowledge which can be built upon in future years. 

Progressive layering of knowledge, embedded in long-term memory, scaffolds pupils to:

Have a curiosity about the world around them
Develop the ability to work scientifically whilst carrying out enquiries
Understand and use scientific vocabulary accurately and purposefully
Learn about the life and findings of significant scientists which exemplify curiosity
Follow the systematic process of scientific enquiry

Application of Conceptual Understanding – occurs when new information and ideas are incorporated into pupils’ existing knowledge through:

Selecting the most apt scientific methods to pose, explore and answer scientific questions
Having an appreciation of how science has contributed to the way we live and how science has an impact on the future
Seeking patterns and recognising their significance
Classifying by identifying similarities, differences and posing the right questions
Observing changes over time
Knowing how to carry out practical enquiries safely and systematically
Knowing how to gather, interpret and present data, showing an understanding of how science uses evidence to support findings
Using a range of methods to communicate their scientific information and presenting it in a systematic, scientific manner, including use of ICT, diagrams, graphs and charts
Developing a respect for the materials and equipment they handle with regards to their own, and other children’s safety
Posing new questions to investigate and developing hypotheses

Science Curriculum Implementation

To achieve our intent, our Science curriculum will provide the following:

A progressive, sequential journey of knowledge, skills and concepts from EYFS to Year 6, encompassing the depth and breadth of the science curriculum
Opportunities to address cultural capital disadvantage
A focus on subject specific Tier 3 scientific vocabulary to equip pupils with the language to express their scientific knowledge with precision and confidence
Explicit links with high quality examples texts, including models, use of technology and practical resources, to provide contextual links and reinforce scientific knowledge
Key outcomes, described as ‘sticky knowledge,’ which form the foundation of prior and subsequent learning
Higher order, subject-specific questions to assess knowledge and understanding
Enhanced learning through memorable experiences and visiting experts
Adaptable approaches that enable all pupils’ opportunities to explore science and experience success
Adapted learning and teaching to support those with additional needs through the pre-teaching of scientific vocabulary, the use of worked examples as models and a focus on creating cross-curricular links between scientific and other subjects
Targeted support for children with English as an additional language including peer collaboration, specific language learning objectives and adaptation based on their current language acquisition
Learning opportunities that encourage children to develop a genuine curiosity in science

Science Curriculum Impact

Pupils will have a curiosity about the world around them
They will have the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future
Pupils will understand that the scientific method of enquiry is an opportunity to form conclusions, appreciating the power of rational explanations
Pupils will fully appreciate the importance of reliable evidence in the scientific approach
They will have the skills and knowledge to select appropriate equipment for enquiry-based learning
Pupils will understand a wide range of scientific vocabulary
They will understand that, used ethically, science is the key to all innovation, progress and improvement to humankind