Science
How we teach Science
In our dedicated science lessons teachers create a positive attitude to science learning, all the time reinforcing an expectation that all pupils are capable of achieving high standards.
We use a range of scientific enquiry skills in each area the children study and all learners are encouraged to work in science with independence and resilience. They are encouraged to question the world around them and become confident in exploring possible answers for their scientific questions. Scientific knowledge is revisited regularly, allowing children to really embed it into their long-term memories. Tasks are selected and designed to appropriately challenge all learners, in line with the school’s commitment and ambition for all children.
Children build up a specialist science vocabulary and we encourage effective questioning so that children are able to explain their understanding of scientific concepts with confidence and clarity. We reinforce science concepts by focusing on the key features of scientific enquiry, so that pupils learn to use a variety of approaches to answer relevant scientific questions using the vocabulary taught. In addition, children get the chance to complete their own research so that they can develop reading skills with purpose.
Enrichment opportunities provide memorable experiences that increase the children’s understanding of the world around them. To immerse the children in their scientific learning, they apply it practically to real-life situations. Children are offered a wide range of extra-curricular activities, visits, workshops with experts and visitors to complement and broaden the curriculum.
We use the National Curriculum to plan our Science curriculum.
What your child will learn
At Callands, our teaching of Science offers children the following opportunities in line with the aims of the National Curriculum:
- 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 enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them;
- Be equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of Science, today and for the future.
- Encouraging open-mindedness, self-assessment, perseverance and developing the skills of enquiry – including: Sorting and grouping, observations over time, pattern seeking, research using secondary sources and comparison and fair testing.
- 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.
- Develop an enthusiasm and enjoyment of scientific learning and discovery.