Science 

Intent 

In particular, we would like all pupils to enjoy science and understand its relevance in their everyday lives and its importance in their futures. We like our pupils to learn about famous scientists from the past and present and have aspirations and ideas about careers in science for the future. This is done through outside speakers coming in and opportunities for visits out of school for example to museums locally.

Where possible, learning will be practical and fun and integrating the science investigative skills required. The science taught is linked with the work taught at secondary school through close transition work and therefore the science skills should be relevant progression for following in ks3 and 4.

At Butleigh C of E Primary School it is our intentions for all children to:

• Think independently and raise questions about working scientifically and the knowledge and skills that it brings.
• Have confidence and competence in the full range of practical skills, taking the initiative in planning and carrying out investigations.
• Develop scientific knowledge and understanding which is demonstrated in written and verbal explanations, solving challenging problems and reporting scientific findings.
• Develop high levels of originality, imagination and innovation in the application of skills.
• Develop the ability to undertake practical work in a variety of contexts, including field work.
• Develop a passion for science and its application in past, present and future technologies.

We aim for Butleigh children to be scientists who can:

• Think independently
• Ask questions
• Explain their knowledge and understanding of scientific findings
• Use original skills and imaginations to solve and investigate
• Carry out practical work in a variety of contexts
• Show a passion for science in the past, present and future.

Implementation

At Butleigh Primary School we link our science to our topics. We start with an enquiry question and plan an investigation which focuses on predicting, observing, recording, interpreting and evaluating. We use our school environment to support the teaching of science. We use a range of recording methods including floor books to record our science investigations which ensure that all children have opportunity to develop their scientific skills. 

All children study science weekly with an emphasis on ‘working scientifically’ All children are supported in their understanding through the use of resources and technology.

Planning

Planning follows the objectives set out in the National Curriculum for each year group. As year groups are mixed, the planning will follow a 2 year rolling program and can be seen in the long term planners of each class. Where possible, the science may link to the class topic but this is not always possible.

Recording 

Children record their science in individual books or in the class floor book. This is marked in line with the school marking policy. Not all children will complete written evidence when working on an experiment. There may be photos of the practical work in books and quotes in their floor books. Work may be displayed on walls. There may be photos of science activities on the class web page.

Assessment

Teacher assess the children’s knowledge of science through formative assessment. 

Reporting 

On our annual reports, which are given to parents at the end of the year, a judgement will be made regarding their child’s attainment in Science relating to the national curriculum for their year group. 

Monitoring Science 

The curriculum leader matches planning with the evidence in books, through learning walks, speaking to pupils about their learning and discussing with colleagues what has gone well as well as any lessons learnt. The science coordinator keeps up to date with current science teaching and passes this information to other staff.