We are scientists…
Our aim in science is to foster a curiosity about the world we live in and to nurture an enthusiasm and love of the subject. Science provides the foundations for understanding and thinking critically about our world through biology, chemistry and physics. All pupils will be taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science in everyday life. Our science lessons are based around investigative work in order to engage the children and stimulate their learning. They are encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.
During their time at Horncastle, pupils will develop a body of foundational knowledge and conceptual understanding building to “working scientifically”. From starting to develop a sense of the world around them in the Early Years, pupils will nurture a core set of skills throughout Key Stages One and Two, which will enable them to think logically about a problem whilst also understanding the uses and implications of science, today and for the future. This will encourage a smooth transition to Key Stage Three.
Each science lesson, we specifically teach vocabulary and recap children’s previous learning. This ensures children are explicitly taught the words they need to discuss their science knowledge and understanding. We explicitly teach vocabulary using Frayer models: a graphic organiser that presents information visually. This cognitive strategy can support pupils’ understanding of content, making abstract learning more concrete and reducing reliance solely on the verbal. This approach is research based and suggested by the EEF
We also ensure that children are taught about ‘Significant Scientists’: people from round the world who have made a significant contribution to the area of science the children are studying. Our children learn about the work of people such as David Attenborough, Jane Goodall, Anders Celsius, John Dunlop and Aristotle.
Why is this right for the children at Horncastle?
We want our children to be scientists and to influence how science shapes our world. Children are encouraged to work scientifically, ask questions, investigate and solve problems wherever possible using our wide range of resources in school and our local context. Children discover that science is all around them with our learning about Joseph Banks who lived in Horncastle and our visit to the Space Centre in Leicester! There is a real buzz around science at Horncastle Primary and we cannot wait for you to discover it!