SCIENCE

At Fibbersley Park Academy, we recognise the importance of Science and strive to maintain a high profile for the subject within our school. Our vision is to encourage curiosity in children so that they ask questions that fuel explorations and investigations about the universe we live in. Our aim is that by providing stimulating and challenging experiences we will help our children to secure and extend their scientific knowledge, vocabulary and critical thinking skills.

Intent

In line with the National Curriculum Science Programmes of Study KS1 and KS2, the school aims to ensure that all pupils:

  • develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics;
  • are prepared for a life in an increasingly scientific and technological world;
  • are provided with opportunities to acquire practical scientific skills;
  • make meaningful links between classroom learning and the real world in order to develop their understanding of Science;
  • develop scientific skills by designing and carrying out their own investigations: making predictions, observations, measuring, hypothesising, communicating, interpreting, explaining and evaluating;
  • nurture their curiosity by asking ‘Killer’ questions in turn developing wonderment and a sense of excitement about science;
  • use a range of methods to communicate their scientific information and present it in a systematic, scientific manner, including I.C.T., diagrams, graphs and charts;
  • develop a respect for the materials and equipment they handle with regard to their own, and other children’s safety.

Implementation

Teachers create a positive attitude to science learning within their classrooms and reinforce an expectation that all children are capable of achieving high standards in science.

During their early years, children encounter a curriculum rich in hands-on experiences which follow the guidance in the Early Years Foundation Stage document.
Our whole school approach to the teaching and learning of science reflect the aims and requirements stated in the National Curriculum for KS1 and KS2. We refer to these documents to inform our planning and ensure progression across the key stages.

Science is taught discreetly and regularly so that pupils are able to sustain their knowledge. Where possible science units are linked to learning challenges.

Teachers use precise questioning in class to test conceptual knowledge and skills.

Teachers assess children regularly to identify those children with gaps or misconceptions.

Children work in mixed ability pairs/ groups. Children are therefore able to assist each other with their learning which creates a natural support network within our classrooms.

We build upon the learning and skill development of the previous years.

Working Scientifically skills are embedded into lessons.

Teachers demonstrate how to use scientific equipment.

Spaced retrieval questions through our ‘killer questions’ which help create a deeper level of processing of any previously learned content into children’s long term memory.

Impact

Fibbersley Park Academy science curriculum will continually develop through relevant CPD, building upon the school’s current science curriculum and using assessment to influence planning and teaching.

Children attending the school will understand the importance of science, confidently develop their own scientific questions and, as a result, enthusiastically investigate science.