Statement of Curriculum Intent - Science
The Big Ideas/principles for science are:
1. Questions
2. Safety
3. Connections
4. Engagement
5. Finding answers
The overarching aim/vision of the science curriculum at Duxford CofE Community Primary School is: Children will be attentive, imaginative, and motivated learners who work scientifically to discover the world around them.
Our aim is that children leave this school: Confident and interested in science and the world around them, with an understanding of scientific principles and the ability to work scientifically. Ultimately, we want children to leave us with a desire to pursue science at GCSE and A-Level. The curriculum coverage ensures this by: High quality science teaching for all. Topics are sequenced to ensure that prior learning is built upon and regularly referred to rather than forgotten. In addition to the compulsory elements of the science national curriculum, pupils learn about a variety of local trees, plants and animals. A range of scientists (past and present, male and female, different nationalities) are also studied each year, ensuring a vast array are covered during pupils’ time at Duxford. The curriculum is supplemented by a KS2 lunchtime science club, an annual science week, as well as scientists visiting school and children going on science trips throughout the academic year.
Teaching should ensure that there is a regular review of prior learning at the start of each lesson. Key vocabulary should be actively taught and definitions learned by children and these should be displayed in the classroom. Lessons should be planned so that children learn important information in a logical sequence and that lessons are learning, not ‘doing’. Teaching should be supported by trips, visits and real experiences wherever possible. Wherever possible, children should be facilitated to see real examples of what they are learning about, and if this is not possible, video, audio clips, photographs and drawings should be used. Progression through the subject is planned to ensure that the content of the National Curriculum is taught in a logical way that builds on previous knowledge and skills.
Curriculum progression is as follows: See curriculum implementation.
We ensure that this curriculum links with other areas of curriculum: Science permeates every aspect of our lives and relates to all areas of the curriculum.
We ensure that pupils realise the positive contribution of both men and women to science and the contribution from those of other cultures. We will not only emphasise the positive effects of science on the world but also include problems, which some human activities can produce.
