Science

Intent

The science curriculum at Farncombe intends to inspire all children to develop appreciation, curiosity and understanding of the world around them. We use a wide range of imaginative approaches and experiences to deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum (2021) and the National Curriculum (2014) for Key Stage One. We have developed careful, progressive planning to ensure the development of scientific skills, vocabulary, and knowledge. We offer opportunities for children to nurture individual scientific interests, and make age-appropriate links to world events and issues to nurture their development as confident and informed citizens of the world.

Implementation 

In EYFS, science is embedded in the topic for each half term for their focus upon ‘Understanding the World.’ Activities are practical and encourage questions such as ‘how’ and ‘why’ something they observe is happening. Science skills and vocabulary are introduced and developed. 

In Key Stage One science is taught in discrete weekly lessons. These begin with whole class teaching and include a recap of previous learning and vocabulary. The children then have opportunities for practical exploration of ideas and the development of their scientific skills. They record their learning in an appropriate and differentiated way. Learning is supported with word cards, word mats, and informative displays in each classroom. Each year group completes an additional investigation and assessment each half term. 

The children also experience additional science activities throughout the school year. These can include experiments during National Science Week, Science Trips, visits to school by farms and animal groups. These events are often funded by our school Friends Association, and enrich the science curriculum brilliantly.

The National Curriculum for Science 

This aims to ensure that all pupils:  

• develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

• develop 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.

• are equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of Science, today and for the future.

Impact

• Children will become confident and curious learners.

• Children will be able to know more and remember in more in Science. They will be able to recall prior learning and apply it.

• Children will know the correct vocabulary to discuss their observations.

• Children will develop a clear understanding of the scientific processes behind science investigations.

• Children will then start their next year of learning with the necessary skills and knowledge to build upon.

British Values and Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Learning in Science

The Science curriculum encourages the development of mutual respect by encouraging the sharing of ideas, and by working collaboratively. Children learn to work safely and follow rules, and gain an understanding of why we have rules and what happens if they are not followed. Children become aware of the ways that Science can affect society, the environment we live in, and the planet we share. They are encouraged to reflect on the wonder of the natural world, our relationship with it, and our responsibility to take care 
of it.

Social learning:

There are many opportunities for group and paired work. This develops children’s communication and teamwork skills as well as allowing them to take responsibility, promoting their social development.

Cultural learning:

Cultural education in Science involves learning about great scientific discoveries. Scientific developments are made all over the world, from people of all genders, backgrounds, and cultures. It is important for the children to understand how the different cultures around the world can have different impacts on our planet.