Science
We are really proud to have acheived the PSQM, in recognition of our fantastic work in science.
The National Curriculum states that:
'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.'
Science Intent
At Goosnargh Oliverson's it is our intention to recognise the importance of science in every aspect of our daily life. As a core subject the teaching and learning of science is given the prominence it requires. The science curriculum fosters a natural curiosity in children about our universe and promotes respect for living organisms and the physical environment. Science learning at Goosnargh Oliverson's aims to increase children's knowledge and understanding of our ever changing world and develop the skills associated with science as a process of enquiry. We intend to build a science curriculum which develops learning and results in the acquisition of knowledge by ensuring all our children are exposed to high quality teaching and learning experiences. In addition our science curriculum will equip our children with the skills to enable them to become inquisitive enquiry based learners.
Science Implementation
Our whole school approach to teaching and learning of science involves the following:
- Planning for science is a process all teachers are involved in to ensure coverage of 'The National Curriculum programmes of study for Science 2014' and 'Understanding of the World' EYFS. Our planning shows progression across all key stages within the strands of science.
- Science is taught and planned in half termly topic blocks. Where appropriate, the science topic is linked to class topics but is also taught as discrete units. This allows achievement of a greater depth of knowledge.
- Science is taught consistently, once a week for 90 minutes and discretely in different contexts throughout the curriculum.
- Children are given opportunities to find out for themselves. They are actively encouraged to investigate their own lines of enquiry as part of the learning process.
- Working Scientifically skills are embedded into lessons to ensure these skills are being developed throughout the child's time in school. A science code is used to identify which skills are being targeted. New vocabulary and challenging concepts are introduced through direct teaching.
- Children are encouraged to reflect on previous learning and make cross curricular links where applicable. Prior knowledge is built upon in order to link ideas together, enabling them to question and become enquiry led learners.
- Knowledge organisers are used to access key language and meanings in order to help children to understand and apply knowledge in their written, mathematical and verbal communication.
- Teachers demonstrate how to use scientific equipment and various Working Scientifically skills in order to embed understanding.
- Teachers find opportunities to develop children's understanding further by accessing outdoor learning, organising workshops with experts and arranging external visits to enhance learning.
Curriculum Overview