The teaching of science at Greystones Primary School
In addition to reading the information that is detailed below, you may like to follow these links for more details about what is taught and expectations at Greystones (just click on the words):
1. The science curriculum at Greystones
2. Science programme of study year group coverage
3. Science vocabulary for Year 1 to Year 6
Greystones Primary School - Science Curriculum Statement
Intent
At Greystones we actively encourage our pupils to broaden their scientific interests and inquiries throughout their time at school and beyond. The Science curriculum fosters a healthy curiosity in children about our global community and promotes respect for the living and non-living. Our school believes science encompasses the acquisition of knowledge, key concepts and scientific skills. Throughout the programmes of study, Greystones children will acquire and develop the fundamental knowledge that has been identified in each science unit and across every year group, as well as the continued application of scientific skills. We ensure that the ‘Working Scientifically’ skills are built-on and extended throughout school life so that the children can apply their knowledge of science when using equipment, conducting experiments, reasoning and explaining concepts confidently. Our children enjoy asking questions and show a stimulated inquisitiveness about their world.
Science is delivered as a weekly subject either over a full term or in half termly blocks. Although these lessons are taught as science, where applicable links are made to the Global Learning Goals threaded throughout our whole school curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to think as scientists in order to develop their knowledge and conceptual understanding. Children acquire an understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of scientific enquiry. They are as such equipped with a range of skills and experiences that relate to a deep understanding of the impact and scientific achievements of today and for their futures.
Our Science curriculum covers the skills defined in the National Curriculum through units that aim to inspire, challenge and motivate our learners. Progression is planned in knowledge, skills and vocabulary so that pupils leaving in year 6 will be equipped with the tools needed to be successful scientists in secondary school.
Implementation
Class Teachers carefully plan and deliver our science programme so that the children feel they are able to achieve high standards in science. The ‘Working Scientifically’ skills are embedded into lessons to ensure they are being continually developed throughout the children’s school journey. New vocabulary and challenging concepts are introduced through direct teaching. The teachers demonstrate how to use scientific equipment, and the various Working Scientifically skills in order to embed scientific understanding.
Teachers find opportunities to deepen the children’s understanding of their surroundings by conducting workshops and involving links that have been developed with the universities in Sheffield and the Ogden Trust. The importance of a global outlook in science has been fostered by our partner school located in Nepal where children are able to share and gain knowledge and experiences. Regular events, such as Science Week and our Science Ambassadors programme, allow pupils to come off-timetable, to provide broader provision and the acquisition and application of knowledge and skills. These events often involve families and other schools.
Impact
The inclusive and engaging approach at Greystones results in a fun, high-quality science education, which provides all children with the foundations and knowledge for understanding the world. The children are highly motivated by scientific opportunities. It is our aim to ensure that children learn through varied and first hand experiences of the world around them. Through various workshops, trips, school partnerships and interactions with researchers, children have the understanding that science has an ongoing impact on everyday life and that it is vital to the world’s future. Children learn the possibilities for further education in science. As a result of our community links and connections with national groups such as the STEM association and The Ogden Trust, our children learn from and work with professionals, ensuring that they have access to positive, insightful role models within the field of science. From these broad and rich experiences, all children feel they are scientists and capable of achieving.