Science
Intent statement
At Upper Wharfedale Primary Federation, our vision is to give children a science curriculum which enables them to confidently explore and discover the world around them, so that they have a deeper understanding of the world we live in. We aim to create fun and stimulating science lessons that nurture children’s natural curiosity and their on-going development. Through a hands-on, enquiry-based curriculum which promotes questioning, challenge, working practically, investigating, evaluating, making choices, working independently and using scientific vocabulary. Children also develop an understanding of how important and relevant science is to their lives, now and in the future through enterprise, Science Days and STEM activities.
Implementation
In Science, at The Upper Wharfedale Primary Federation we have developed a cycle of topics based on the Knowledge and Understanding Programme of study from the 2014 National Curriculum. Topics are taught across mixed age group classes: Early Years and KS1 and Key stage 2. Pupils revisit themes throughout their Primary years to help embed skills and concepts. Throughout the children’s learning journey in science, value is placed on practical investigation and learning through first-hand experience. Pupils are nurtured to acquire and embed the appropriate working scientifically skills, to carry out a range of scientific enquiries including: observing over time; pattern seeking; identifying, classifying and grouping; comparative and fair testing and research through secondary sources. The acquisition of these skills is carefully planned throughout the school to ensure that the children’s ability to ask questions, observe, measure, test, gather data, record and report their findings develops in a progressive manner. New skills build on previously mastered learning. These skills are woven into topics, which aim to deepen, broaden and challenge the children’s existing knowledge and understanding of the natural world and physical processes. Scientific vocabulary is introduced, modelled and consolidated throughout each topic ensuring that it is used accurately. Science is taught as a discrete subject. However, the critical thinking skills acquired through science also prove useful in the development of other areas of the curriculum – from solving problems in maths and design technology or presenting an evidence-based argument in English and history to discussing environmental issues in geography.
Impact
The engaging use of resources and teaching strategies at The Upper Wharfedale Primary Federation results in pupils being actively involved in science lessons. Our approach encourages children to ask questions; equips them with the necessary skills to pursue their own lines of enquiry and lays down the foundations for them to have a greater understanding of the world. Children also gain an insight into the positive impact of science within their lives and potential careers in this field, through their research on various scientists.
Science Long Term Overviewscience progression map
Useful websites
A range of fun, hands-on activities for families to use at home, suitable for all ages from 4 to 16.
This site is filed with online science activities for toddlers and pre-schoolers.
https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/30-preschool-science-experiments-for-the-young-scientist/
Curious kids turn into junior scientists with these preschool science experiments and beyond!
From science experiments to sensory explorations to STEM and STEAM activities, these science activities for young children are sure to be a hit!
Mystery Science offers free lessons broken down in year group levels on fun topics like, “Why are baby animals so cute?”
This website offers cool space-related videos and activities.
On this website you don’t need to log in. Just explore, have fun and learn some science along the way
https://www.howstuffworks.com/
How Stuff Works will keep curious kids entertained for hours.