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Chapelfield Primary School

Science

Why do we teach Science?

Science is the study of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation. At Chapelfield, we a adopt an approach of enquiry within our teaching of science which is at the core of our curriculum and is woven into all science topics. We build upon children’s natural curiosity about the world and allow pupils to ask and answer scientific questions, often taking their lead within investigations from the earliest opportunity. We aim for our children to build up a bank of knowledge, skills and concepts, with opportunities to create hypothesis and experimentation to reach scientific conclusions.

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.

How do we approach Science at Chapelfield?

As one of our curriculum drivers, we give the teaching and learning of science the prominence it needs as a core subject in primary education. We aim to expose every child to a coherently planned broad, balanced and sequential science curriculum. Topics are blocked into Cycle A and Cycle B and are taught in accordance with the National Curriculum with meaningful cross-curricular links made where possible. Teachers model and encourage a developing scientific vocabulary as they progress through each year group. Learning builds upon prior learning, therefore developing depth of understanding and progression of skills. To further support children in their ability to ‘know more and remember more’ there are also regular opportunities to review learning.

Within the Early Years Foundation Stage, science is encompassed within ‘understanding of the world’, ‘communication and language’ and ‘physical development’ through a combination of focused teaching and hands on experiences. Staff use and model effective and high-quality language to encourage children to talk about what they notice and to ask questions.

Assessment

Assessment in KS1 and KS2 begins with an initial assessment of scientific vocabulary which informs learning. Children are then exposed to new vocabulary and scientific knowledge, which is supported by the use of the class science display, leading to a final assessment of the unit. In this assessment children demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of key scientific vocabulary and concepts covered. Teachers assess the learning outcomes for each unit using a checklist.

Useful Links:

Below are some links for more detailed information about Science at Chapelfield:

Here is a copy of our Cycle A Science 2021-2022. Please note that the next cycle A in 2023-2024 may differ to ensure curriculum coverage in all year groups.

 

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