Intent
At the Rylands Federation, we encourage children to be inquisitive throughout their time at the school and beyond. The Science curriculum fosters a healthy curiosity in children about our universe and promotes respect for the living and non-living. We believe science encompasses the acquisition of knowledge, concepts, skills and positive attitudes. Throughout the programmes of study, the children will acquire and develop the key knowledge that has been identified within each unit and across each year group, as well as the application of scientific skills. We ensure that the Working Scientifically skills are built-on and developed throughout children’s time at the two schools so that they can apply their knowledge of science when using equipment, conducting experiments, building arguments and explaining concepts confidently and continue to ask questions and be curious about their surroundings.
Implementation
Science at the Trent Rylands Federation is stimulating, engaging and fun. Children are taught science through a thematic cross curricula approach in which their understanding is both expanded and deepened. Working scientifically is fundamental to good quality science teaching and it is at the heart of every science lesson taught. Children are given the opportunity to explore ideas and concept by generating their own lines of enquiry and having practical opportunities to explore these.
The content of the National Curriculum is taught over two year cycles across both settings. Working scientifically is identified in planning as is scientific vocabulary needed to accurately describe and explain scientific concepts. Progression in the scientific disciplines of chemistry, physics and biology have also been identified ensuring that children build on prior knowledge enabling children to expand their knowledge and understanding. Science is found throughout the curriculum and content is taught through the other core subjects of English and Mathematics.
Impact
The successful approach to the teaching of science at Trent Rylands Federation will result in a fun, engaging, high quality science education that provides children with the foundations for understanding the world that they can take with them once they complete their primary education.
At all stages they will be able to articulate their understanding of scientific concepts and be able to reason scientifically using rich the vocabulary linked to science.
They will have an understanding of science in the wider world and be able use this knowledge to explain the world around them.
Formative assessment is used as the main tool for assessing the impact of Science at the Trent Rylands Federation as it allows for misconceptions and gaps to be addressed more immediately rather than building on insecure scientific foundations. Summative assessment will take place in a number of ways including work scrutiny, pupil interviews and tests as well as be able to explain the process they have taken and be able to reason scientifically.
CLICK HERE to read the TRF Science Skills Progression Document
