Science

Introduction

Science is truly celebrated at Our Lady of Hartley. Our intent for science is for our children to develop, enhance and encourage questions, curiosity and understanding of the scientific world. The foundational understanding of key scientific knowledge is taught through inspiring, hands on lessons and the children are encourage to work collaboratively, using accurate scientific vocabulary.

Children are also exposed to STEM opportunities which allows children to make links to the real world and gives context to children which allows them to have a sense of purpose when engaged in their work.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/425618/PRIMARY_national_curriculum_-_Science.pdf

Science in the Early Years

In Early Years, children engage in scientific activities through their study and acquirement of Understanding the World (UW). Reception pupils follow the Early Years Curriculum for UW and are assessed initially against Development Matters criteria, moving to the Early Years Profile towards the end of their Reception year. Within the curriculum, the following targets relate to Science through Understanding the World:

To comment and ask questions about aspects of their familiar world, such as the place where they live or the natural world.
To talk about some of the things they have observed, such as plants, animals, natural and found objects.
To talk about why things happen and how things work.
To develop an understanding of growth, decay and changes over time.
To show care and concern for living things and the environment.
To begin to be interested in and describe the texture of things
To eat a healthy range of foodstuffs and understand a need for variety in food.
To show some understanding that good practices with regard to exercise, eating, sleeping and hygiene can contribute to good health.
To look closely at similarities, differences, patterns and change.
To eat a healthy range of foodstuffs and understand a need for variety in food.
To show some understanding that good practices with regard to exercise, eating, sleeping and hygiene can contribute to good health.
To look closely at similarities, differences, patterns and change.
To know the importance for good health of physical exercise, and a healthy diet, and talk about ways to keep healthy and safe.
To know about similarities and differences in relation to places, objects, materials and living things.
They talk about the features of their own immediate environment and how environments might vary from one another.

All of these skills and areas of learning are developed further through the year 1 curriculum.

Cross-Curricular Links

Science is one of the most easily taught subjects across the different curriculums. From using data loggers in ICT to record sound, creating shadow puppet theatres in Art and D&T to writing creatively about observations they have made. Below you will find more examples of how Science is taught in a cross curricular way across both Key Stages:

Maths

Data handling and statistics: Measuring accurately, collecting and recording data and representing through the use of bar charts, tallies and graphs. Children also use skills and understanding of percentages, fractions and calculation within science lessons.

English

Writing recounts, detailed observations, descriptions and instructions when undertaking investigations. Children also have the opportunity to apply new vocabulary learned through science lessons to their writing.

Design and Technology

Science is at the heart of DT, enabling children to further their understanding of many areas of science. For example:

Pulleys and gears, weight-bearing structures, how to stiffen and strengthen complex structures
Creating an electrical circuit game such as a buzz wire game, designs using particular materials as insulators or conductors
Food technology, textiles and design ideas, structures and materials used

Art

Sketching, modelling and accurate drawings are often used during many science lessons. This enables children to develop these skills using various artistic mediums.

Computing

Computing knowledge and skills can be applied to Science work, providing real life opportunities to put skills to practical use.

SRE

Scientific explanations for life cycles of mammals, understanding changes in our body and keeping our bodies fit and healthy