Science
Subject Statement of Intent – Science
At Holy Rosary, we value Science as an important part of children’s entitlement to a broad and balance curriculum. We believe that high quality, well planned lessons will ignite a curiosity to learn about the world. Science is a systematic investigation of the physical, chemical and biological aspects of the world which relies on first hand experiences and on other sources of information. The scientific process and pupils’ problem-solving activities will be used to deepen their understanding of the concepts involved. Through science, pupils will continue to deepen their respect, care and appreciation for the natural world and all its phenomena
We aim to develop:
- Scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics;
- Understanding of the nature, processes and methods of Science through different types of science enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them.
- Scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of Science, today and for the future.
- The essential scientific enquiry skills to deepen their scientific knowledge.
- The use of a range of methods to communicate their scientific information and present it in a systematic, scientific manner, including computing, diagrams, graphs and charts.
- A respect for the materials and equipment they handle with regard to their own, and other children’s safety.
- An enthusiasm and enjoyment of scientific learning and discovery.
Science is taught through units by the class teacher over a two or three week period. In Foundation Stage Science is taught through knowledge and understanding of the world. During a pupil’s time at Holy Rosary, they will experience specific ‘Science Days’ to help promote aspirations and a ‘real love’ of science, e.g. Women in Science Day, British Scientists and Scientists from other cultures.
The teaching and implementation of the Science Curriculum at Holy Rosary is based on the National Curriculum. Units are linked to ensure a well-structured approach to this subject. During their learning journey the children will develop their knowledge of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, building on their knowledge and skills as they progress through the school. Teachers prepare a knowledge organiser at the start of each theme to support their teaching alongside a Key Vocabulary checklist. Classes also have a Rapid Recall quiz weekly to recap on previous learning and vocabulary.
We hope that through well planned lessons the children will become confident scientists. By developing scientific knowledge and skills they can solve problems with increasing sophistication. As some of the science is cross curricular, this will help them to show their knowledge and understanding in mathematics, computing and technology. Each Science unit has an accompanying text/book to help demonstrate the real life implications of understanding science and the world around them.
What we teach at Holy Rosary
Key Knowledge:
Click the files below to see the key knowledge for each year group.
Progression
Click on the files below to see the progression across school.
Assessment
Assessment for Science is completed throughout the school by class teachers based on weekly quizzes, anchor tasks, frequent marking of the children’s work and assessment tasks. They also understand where their children need to be, through a secure understanding of the year group expectations and previous learning expectations. Science is assessed against key knowledge descriptors for each area of the curriculum. This takes place termly and is recorded using Insight Tracker. The Science lead also has the opportunity to monitor the subject on a termly basis, ensuring the quality teaching and learning is taking place.
Useful Links:
BBC BITESIZE SCIENCE
CRICWEB - KEY STAGE 1 SCIENCE
CRICKWEB - KEY STAGE 2 SCIENCE
GIFTED KIDS - SCIENCE WEBSITE FOR RESOURCES AND INFORMATION