Science
09 Nov 2021
Intent Statement for Science
The subject leader for Science is Ms Maggie Wilson.
They can be contacted by emailing admin@northstainley.n-yorks.sch.uk using the subject title FAO of Ms Maggie Wilson.
With oversight and support from our Senior Leadership team subject leaders oversee and monitor the intent, implementation and impact of their subject.
Intent
At North Stainley C.E. School, we encourage children to be inquisitive throughout their time at the school and beyond. The Science curriculum fosters a healthy curiosity in children about our universe and promotes respect for the living and non-living. We believe science encompasses the acquisition of knowledge, concepts, skills and positive attitudes. Throughout the programmes of study, the children will acquire and develop the key knowledge that has been identified within each unit and across each year group. The key knowledge identified by each year group is informed by the national curriculum and builds towards identified phase ‘end points’ in accordance with NC expectations. Key skills are also mapped for each year group and are progressive throughout the school. These too, ensure systematic progression to identified skills’ end points which are in accordance with the ‘Working Scientifically’ skills expectations of the National Curriculum. The curriculum is designed to ensure that children are able to acquire key scientific knowledge through practical experiences, using equipment, conducting experiments, building arguments and explaining concepts confidently. The school’s approach to science takes account of our context, ensuring access to people with specialist expertise and places of scientific interest as part of the school’s commitment to learning outside the classroom. Cross-curricular opportunities are also identified, mapped and planned to ensure relevance. Children are encourages to ask questions and be curious about their surroundings and a love of science is nurtured through a whole school ethos and a varied science curriculum.
Science Rationale
Science is a body of knowledge built up through experimental testing of ideas. Science is also a methodology, a practical way of finding reliable answers to questions we may ask about the world around us.
Science is about developing children’s ideas and ways of working that enable them to make sense of the world in which they live through investigation, as well as using and applying process skills. We believe that a broad and balanced science education is the entitlement of all children, regardless of ethnic origin, gender, class, aptitude or disability.
Science Rationale - 2022
Science Policy - 2021
Implementation
As part of the planning process, teachers plan the following:
- A knowledge organiser which outlines key knowledge (including vocabulary)
- A cycle of lessons for each topic, which carefully plans progression and depth.
- Challenge questions for pupils to apply their learning in a philosophical/ open manner.
- Where appropriate organise trips and visits from experts who will enhance the learning experience.