Science at Belmont
Intent
At Belmont, our intent is to to develop a fun, practical and engaging curriculum that inspires all pupils to find success and excel in science. Wherever possible, we intend to deliver lessons where pupils learn through varied systematic investigations, asking and answering scientific questions about the world around them. The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils apply their knowledge of science when using equipment, conducting experiments and investigation, building arguments and explaining concepts confidently, becoming familiar with scientific terminology, continuing to ask questions and being ever-more curious about their surroundings.
Implementation
- At EYFS, science is taught through ‘Understanding the world’ following a play-based, exploration curriculum.
- KS1 and KS2 Planning is inline with the National Curriculum.
- Knowledge organisers outline progressive learning, detailing skills and knowledge development from previous years (including key individuals, key questions and key vocabulary).
- Science is taught in half-term blocks; cross-curricular learning is encouraged and teachers ensure all pupils are catered for with adapted planning suited for their abilities.
- Pupils work scientifically to ensure that skills are systematically developed enabling them to question and become enquiry based learners.
- New vocabulary and challenging concepts are introduced through direct teaching.
- Opportunities are given to develop pupil’s understanding of their surroundings by accessing outdoor learning and workshops with experts.
- Review questions derived from units from previous years are used at the beginning of each lesson as AFL or to revisit and consolidate prior learning required for new units.
- High-level mathematical skills of measurements and statistics are applied when working scientifically.
- Enrichment days, such as ‘science week’, and an extra-curricular STEM club promote the profile of Science and allow time for the children to freely explore scientific topics.
- Attainment is assessed termly using a tracking sheet, providing evidence towards the KS1 and KS2 statutory assessments.
Impact
The intended impact of the Science curriculum is that pupils will:
- Acquire the appropriate age-related skills to make progress from their starting point.
- Acquire new skills and knowledge linked to the science curriculum.
- Retain knowledge that is pertinent to Science.
- Learn the possibilities for careers in science/STEM.
- Become excited about STEM subjects, as well as developing practical, teamwork and leadership skills that will support their classroom learning and boost their employability skills.
- Navigate an ever-changing world of science and technology
- Become resilient, independent and curious scientists.
- Question ideas and reflect on knowledge.
- Articulate their understanding of Scientific concepts and reason using rich, technical language.
- Work collaboratively and practically to investigate and experiment.
