Science
Intent
At St. Joseph’s we aim to teach high-quality science lessons that provide 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 are taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils are encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They are encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.
Throughout EYFS, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 it is important that pupils make progress, it is also vitally important that they develop secure understanding of each key block of knowledge and concepts in order to progress to the next stage. Pupils are able to describe associated processes and key characteristics in common language, but they are also familiar with, and use, technical terminology accurately and precisely. They build up an extended specialist vocabulary. They also apply their mathematical knowledge to their understanding of science, including collecting, presenting and analysing data. The social and economic implications of science are important but, generally, they are taught most appropriately within the wider school curriculum: teachers will wish to use different contexts to maximise their pupils’ engagement with and motivation to study science.
The quality and variety of language that pupils hear and speak are key factors in developing their scientific vocabulary and articulating scientific concepts clearly and precisely. They are assisted in making their thinking clear, both to themselves and others, and teachers ensure that pupils build secure foundations by using discussion to probe and remedy their misconceptions.
Within our Science Curriculum, we set high expectations for all children whether they are prior higher attaining, from disadvantaged backgrounds, children with English as an additional language or have a specific educational need or disability.
Our Science curriculum is rooted in the Catholic Schools Pupil Profile, the Principles of Catholic Social Teaching and the national curriculum. The aim of the whole school curriculum is to nurture within the children all of the values and academic skills described in the Catholic Schools pupil profile whilst delivering the requirements of the national curriculum for each subject and the agreed Diocesan curriculum for Religious Education.
Curriculum Overview
What our Children Say…
“I love experiments, it makes us good scientists.” – Year 4 child
“We can explore our planet and think of ways to stop pollution.” – Year 4 child
“I love using technology and different materials, I really love Science Week.” – Year 5 child
Deepening Opportunities
Science Week is an opportunity for children to express their creativity and scientific knowledge. We have trips linked to Science e.g. Thinktank, Motor Museum and MAD Museum. St Francis’ Forest is a new area we are continuing to develop for rich outdoor learning experiences, including the use of a wide range of recording and observational equipment.