Science at Oldfield
Science is taught as a separate lesson but is often linked to our topic work where appropriate. We encourage our pupils to be curious about natural phenomena and to be excited by the process of understanding the world around them. Whilst at Oldfield Primary School, children learn about plants, animals including humans, materials, seasonal change and weather, habitats, rocks, light, forces, states of matter, sound, and electricity. Part of the science curriculum is also delivered via our Forest School from 2021. The coordinator organises science weeks during the year.
Teaching and learning
All lessons have clear learning objectives, which are shared and reviewed with the pupils effectively. Key scientific terminology will be introduced each lesson and knowledge will be built upon throughout the school. Pupils will be encouraged to work scientifically and will able to carry out simple tests and experiments using equipment and to gather and record data. A variety of strategies, including questioning, discussion and marking, are used to assess progress. The information is used to identify what is taught next. The assessment, reporting and marking policy gives details of these.
Activities inspire the pupils to experiment and investigate the world around them and to help them raise their own questions such as “Why…?”, “How…?” and “What happens if…?” Activities develop the skills of enquiry, observation, locating sources of information, selecting appropriate equipment and using it safely, measuring and checking results, and making comparisons and communicating results and findings. Lessons make effective links with other curriculum areas and subjects, especially literacy, numeracy and ICT.
Activities are challenging, motivating and extend pupils’ learning. Pupils have frequent opportunities to develop their skills in, and take responsibility for, planning investigative work, selecting relevant resources, making decisions about sources of information, carry out activities safely and decide on the best form of communicating their findings.
Continuity and progression
The school ensures curriculum continuity by following the rolling programme for Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 1. Forest School is used to support the curriculum using the outdoor learning environment. Long term plans are to be found by following the link below.
What our pupils will learn in Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS):
The EYFS Curriculum for Understanding the World is taught in variety of ways through adult-led and adult-supported tasks and child-initiated learning in well-resourced provision areas, both indoors and outdoors. The themes are linked to the Scheme of Work for Key Stage 1 to ensure progression.
Below is our long term plan for science at Oldfield
