Science
Intent
At Wold Newton we aim to provide a broad, balanced and differentiated curriculum ensuring all pupils have access to the topics covered developing their curiosity for all aspects of science, providing the foundations for understanding of the world around them. Science should provide, where possible, a practical based curriculum which develops scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. We also aim to develop the rigours of scientific enquiry in order to answer scientific questions through the cross-curricular application of other subjects: in particular maths and English. Pupils are encouraged to use science to explain everyday phenomenon through prediction observation and analysis.
Implementation
We aim to provide an enriched learning environment and ensure high standards of teaching; to develop pupils who aspire to learn and develop. Science is taught through a two year cycle as detailed in our science progression document. We develop knowledge produced by science (substantive knowledge) and an understanding of how this knowledge is produced and developed (disciplinary knowledge). These are built up progressively each year - as detailed in our curriculum progression - ensuring that there is equal coverage of the five types of scientific enquiry. Pupils are encouraged to ask ‘big questions’ and interrogate data and sources. We believe reading and vocabulary development are key skills to learning and development in this and all areas. Vocabulary is built up progressively through the school- please see vocabulary progression document. We encourage experiences through fieldwork and educational visits alongside high quality classroom experiences. We also plan topics which encourage children to apply their curiosity and scientific knowledge to social and economic issues and develop predictions and solutions to social and environmental issues.
Impact
Pupils should be able to describe the world around them in terms of scientific processes and describe key characteristics in a common language while being familiar with and using technical terminology accurately and precisely. They will also be able to apply skills from other subjects to their understanding of scientific phenomenon. Pupils will gain a deeper understanding of methods of science over time and then apply their scientific knowledge to understand implications of science now and in the future. Children will display an enthusiasm and confidence when investigating different scientific topics and be able to apply their learning to other areas.
