Intent
The science curriculum at Abbey Hey Primary Academy provides children with a coherent, substantive knowledge of the scientific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics that provides pupils with:
- a secure, deep understanding of the nature, processes and principles of science through clear instruction and deliberate practice.
- an ability to apply long-term knowledge to make predictions and connections between disciplines, and recognise the uses and implications of science in the wider world.
- gradual understanding of ‘vertical concepts in biology, chemistry and physics’.
It also intents to embed core disciplinary knowledge, and the ability to systematically approach challenging, scientifically-valid questions through:
- Scientific Attitudes & Planning
asking scientifically relevant scientific questions and designing controlled investigations.
learning how to use scientific apparatus like rulers and thermometers, and through making systematic observations.
setting up data collection tables and presenting this data in a variety of charts and graphs.
interpreting and analysing findings; drawing conclusions and evaluating the reliability of investigations.
Our aim is to generate excitement for science, that inspires a curiosity about natural phenomena and the world around them.
Implementation
Teachers are provided with an additional three planning days per year in addition to their PPA, to plan their curriculum. As part of this planning process, teachers plan the following:
- A knowledge organiser which outlines knowledge (including vocabulary) all children must master
- A sequence of learning which follows the Rosenshine Principles of Instruction
- A cycle of lessons for each subject, which carefully plans for progression and depth
- Low stakes quizzes which are used regularly to support learners’ ability to retrieve and recall knowledge and increase space in the working memory
- Challenge questions for pupils to apply their learning in a philosophical/open manner
- Trips and visits from experts who will enhance the learning experience
Impact
Our Science Curriculum is high quality, well thought out and is planned to demonstrate progression. If children are keeping up with the curriculum, they are deemed to be making good or better progress. In addition, we measure the impact of our curriculum through the following methods:
▪ A reflection on standards achieved against the planned outcomes
▪ A celebration of learning which demonstrates progression across the school
▪ Tracking of knowledge in pre and post learning quizzes
▪ Pupil discussions about their learning
Our science curriculum is also planned in a way which promotes the cultural capital of all our children. We enhance our curriculum especially for the most disadvantaged by organising guest speakers (STEM), organising Science week which focuses on the wider world and promotes careers in science.
We also provide additional opportunities such as farm visits and Forest School for EYFS and Year One.
Science Long Term Plan
Science Whole School Progression Map
UL Overview