Science

Intent

All pupils at Little Kingshill Combined School experience the key scientific knowledge and skills required by the National Curriculum:

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

As one of the core subjects, we give the teaching of science the prominence it requires. It is our intent that all pupils are fully immersed in every aspect of Science and for them to recognise the importance of Science in aspects of daily life. Children will be encouraged to respect living organisms and the physical environment. Science is encouraged to be hands on, investigative and fun. Throughout the programmes of study, the children will acquire and develop the key knowledge that has been identified within each unit and across each year group. We will ensure that the Working Scientifically skills are built-on and developed throughout children’s time at the school so that they can apply their knowledge of science when using equipment, building arguments and explaining concepts confidently. We aim to equip pupils with knowledge, skills and understanding and to encourage children to be inquisitive throughout their time at Little Kingshill.

Implementation

At Little Kingshill, children have weekly lessons in science throughout Key Stage 1 and 2. In Early Years, science is taught through the children learning about the world around them in their learning through play
Each science unit begins with a ‘Big Question’ that provides a hook for learning, developing a sense of excitement and curiosity for children. Teachers check on what children already know and then invite children to think of their own questions. Children will be able to build on prior knowledge and link ideas together, enabling them to question and become enquiry based learners. Children are also asked to review their learning at the end of each topic.
Activities that promote discussion include whole class investigations and well as group work are encouraged. Science activities, which can be in a variety of forms, are presented in a Science Journal or in the children’s individual books.
Working Scientifically skills are embedded into lessons to ensure these skills are being developed throughout the children’s school career and new vocabulary and challenging concepts are introduced through direct teaching.
Teachers find opportunities to develop children’s understanding of their surroundings by accessing outdoor learning such as the Arboretum and the Eco Garden and workshops with experts when appropriate.
Each unit is supported by Knowledge Organisers which detail the key facts, sticky vocabulary and skills for each unit. Key vocabulary and knowledge are also displayed on Science Working Walls.

Impact

The successful approach to the teaching of science at Little Kingshill will result in a fun, engaging, high quality science education, that provides children with the foundations for understanding the world that they can take with them once they complete their primary education.
During lessons, children’s learning is measured using observations, key questioning, marking and annotation of children’s work and other forms of Assessment for Learning. This is used to support the planning and development of teaching and learning in the short term.
Children’s attainment in Science (both Substantive and Disciplinary) is recorded in Insight Tracking every term.
Most children will achieve age related expectations in Science at the end of their cohort year. They will demonstrate a love of science work and an interest in further study and work in this field. Children will work collaboratively and practically to investigate and experiment.
The school’s science provision is recognised by the achievement of the nationally recognised ‘Primary Science Quality Mark’, which the school currently holds.