A high-quality science education provides 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 should be taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils should be encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They should be encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave and analyse causes.
National Curriculum Guidance (Updated 6th May, 2016)
At Annfield Plain Junior School, we aim to prepare pupils for their next stage of education and life. We aim to develop the skills and knowledge needed to be a scientist, whilst making learning in science engaging and enjoyable.
Every child has a natural curiosity about the way the world works. At Annfield Plain Junior School, we aim to develop pupils’ enjoyment and interest in science within all aspects of everyday life. Where possible we use outdoor learning and real-life experiences. Using a range of planned investigations and practical activities, we build on pupils’ curiosity and sense of awe in the natural world.
As we aim to prepare pupils for secondary school and help them to think like scientists, we ensure the pupils are able to develop their ability to plan fair tests, make predictions, record results (using ICT, diagrams, graphs, tables and charts) and to make generalisations about their learning. We value the use of scientific vocabulary and model this with our children, encouraging them to use it to explain their scientific thinking.
Progress is measured throughout Key Stage 2. Children complete pre/post topic assessments for each unit of work. Children’s scientific skills, knowledge and understanding are assessed termly/half-termly. Science is taught following the ‘Snap Science’ scheme of work and in line with the updated National Curriculum which aims to:
- Develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding, through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics;
- Develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science, through different types of science enquiry which helps pupils to answer scientific questions about the world around them;
- Equip pupils with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future.
| Topic | |
| Year 3 | Plants
Rocks Light and Shadows Forces and Magnets The Human Body |
| Year 4 | States of Matter: Solids, Liquids, Gases
Teeth Classifying Vertebrates and Invertebrates Electricity: Circuits and Conductors Sound |
| Year 5 | Materials: Everyday Materials
States of Matter: Sorting, Mixing, Changing Life Cycles: Circle of Life Life Cycles: Reproduction in Plants and Animals Space Forces |
| Year 6 | The Human Body: Body Pump
The Human Body: Body Health Light and Shadows Electricity: Danger! Low Voltage Plants and Animals Environmental Issues |
What do the children think?
‘I like it because it is scientific and you learn lots’ Cameron Y3
‘I like investigating in science because I can research different topics. In my science book I made a poster about having a balanced diet’ Imogen Y3
‘I like learning science facts’ Alfie Y3
‘Science is Fun!’ Alicia Y4
‘Science is so FUN with Magic Mrs McGregor’ Jake Y4
‘Best subject ever’ Riley Y4
‘Science is fascinating because we discover new things’ Maisey-May Y4
‘Science is a fun way to learn about how things work and react’ Sophia Y5
‘Science is great because you learn and play at the same time’ Ethan Y6
‘I really like science because it always keeps you thinking and you never know what is going to happen’ Can Y6
‘Science is awesome because it is interesting and fun. I have been inspired to be a Scientist’ Eve Y6
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