Science
Intent
At Higher Lane Primary School, we recognise the importance of Science in every aspect of daily life. As one of the core subjects taught in Primary Schools, we give the teaching and learning of Science the prominence it requires. It can be one of the most exciting and practical subjects and, as a result, is a real joy for teachers and pupils. Children love the chance to learn through being totally hands-on and finding things out for themselves the perfect way to understand the world around them. A positive primary Science experience is also key to encouraging future generations to not only study this at secondary school, but also potentially to follow it as a career.
At Higher Lane, in conjunction with the aims of the National Curriculum, our Science teaching offers opportunities for children to:
- 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.
- Be equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of Science, today and for the future.
- Develop the essential scientific enquiry skills to deepen their scientific knowledge.
- Use a range of methods to communicate their scientific information and present it in a systematic, scientific manner, including I.C.T., diagrams, graphs and charts.
- Develop a respect for the materials and equipment they handle with regard to their own, and other children’s safety.
- Develop an enthusiasm and enjoyment of scientific learning and discovery.
Implementation
At Higher Lane, Science is a driver subject within our Learning Challenge Curriculum. By using the Focus Education materials to resource the curriculum, the teaching and learning in Science uses high-quality literature to bring the learning to life. We believe that our cross-curricular, exciting and engaging Science lessons inspire our pupils to want to know more about key scientific areas and to think and act as scientists. By beginning each Science topic with a key learning question, we provide children with the opportunities to increase their knowledge and understanding of our world, and with developing skills associated with Science as a process of enquiry. It develops the natural curiosity of the child, encourages respect for living organisms and the physical environment and provide opportunities for critical evaluation of evidence. We dedicate a half term to each Science topic, along with additional Science units and retrieval practice throughout the year. This approach allows the children to become fully immersed in their learning and to deepen their understanding of a range of scientific areas.
Within the Early Years Foundation Stage, Science is encompassed within ‘Understanding of the World’, ‘Communication and Language’ and ‘Physical Development’ through a combination of focussed teaching, daily routines and continuous provision. Staff use and model effective/high quality language to encourage children to talk about what they notice and to ask questions about their familiar world/wider world/plants and animals, children are encouraged to test and explore their ideas. Staff provide hands on experiences for children (hatching ducklings/chicks, observing the life cycles of animals, exploring seasons through outdoor learning). Children will be asking questions and exploring how to answer them through their resources and objects in their world.
Not only are children inspired during their discrete and cross-curricular Science lessons, we provide extra-curricular opportunities for children to further develop their Scientific skills and knowledge. This is done through Science clubs, whole school fairs, workshops, shows, event days assemblies and parental sessions. Engaging with the wider community allows the love of Science to spread.
Impact
At Higher Lane, we aspire our children to become scientists who are resourceful, innovative and resilient with an ability to critically reflect upon their own practice. They will develop education and career-inspiring key skills across a range of topic areas and furthered their own curiosity and inquisitive nature. These investigative skills impact across all other subjects and in other areas of their life. Key areas of sticky knowledge are embedded within our children and have purpose.