Science
“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” (DfE, 2015)
Our Science Curriculum
Studies have identified the primary years as the period when students form their interests in STEM identities and careers. Science teaching at Four Dwellings Primary Academy aims to give all children a strong understanding of the world around them whilst acquiring specific skills and knowledge to help them to think scientifically, to gain an understanding of scientific processes and also an understanding of the uses and implications of Science, today and for the future.
Throughout the academy, we aim to deliver a science curriculum that is embedded through 'science in the world around them'. We promote a continuous process of thinking and working, where children will have the opportunity to discover, explore and investigate a variety of topical issues. We put a lot of emphasis on the children being taught practical investigation skills that support teaching of key scientific concepts. This also allows students to practise cross-curricular maths and writing skills.
As part of this planning and teaching process:
Science skills are explicitly taught once a week during Science lessons
A ‘Mastery Flow Model’ for each objective is pre-planned, which outlines knowledge (including vocabulary) that all children must master, ensuring progression and depth
A low stakes quiz (Show Me What You Know), which is tested at the start and end of each unit, guides teaching and learning and targets misconceptions
Challenge questions (Thinking tasks) and ‘Further Extensions’ (Explaining tasks) are provided for pupils to apply their learning in a philosophical/open manner
Rich and Complex Tasks (Solving activities) enable children to apply their learning in an alternative context e.g. through wider curriculum / topic activities (taking advantage of cross-curricular learning)
Children are encouraged to formulate their own questions and lines of enquiry
Our teachers plan lessons and investigations, using a 5-part ‘Mastery Flow Model’, that supports the broader curriculum and helps our children to understand the world as they see it.
We actively encourage our pupils to express their ideas both written and orally. All theories are accepted with respect so that children feel confident in sharing ideas, they can develop a positive attitude towards science and so that their natural curiosity towards scientific thinking is nurtured. We want children who experience our science curriculum to develop an understanding and awareness of the importance that science plays in influencing our lives on all levels.
Subject Documentation
Updated September 2023