Science
Science at All Saints fosters natural curiosity in our children and develops their ability to ask and answer important questions.
With purposeful practical investigations and an ambitious curriculum, our children will develop their substantive knowledge, enquiry skills and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Children will have opportunities to explore science in action, to witness natural phenomena for themselves, make predictions, carry out experiments and evaluate their findings. We look at how modern and historical scientists have affected our lives and which scientific attributes each has demonstrated.
Emphasis is placed on the correct use and understanding of scientific terminology, and our oral curriculum enables pupils to broaden their horizons through questioning science.
Children as Scientists
At All Saints, it is part of our curriculum mission that children become active agents of their own learning. Our problem solving approach to scientific enquiry is just one example of this. Led by a rich, open question, that fosters curiosity and new learning, our children use the triangular method to plan their scientific lines of enquiry.
This method involves children being immersed in a science topic story where children are taught ideas and skills which they embed and apply through problem solving and critical thinking. Our ‘science stories’ are shared through chapter planning – always ensuring that our chosen questions stimulate natural curiosity and the ability to ‘puzzle out’ as the children think and solve.
The triangular diagram features three variables central to scientific enquiry: same, change, measure. What stays the same? What will we change? What will we measure? Led by an overarching investigation question, following the teaching of key skills, our children are encouraged to create their own lines of enquiry – recorded as a focused question within the triangle. The triangular diagram can also be used to form a table of results – tying together their enquiry, analysis and interpretation. Other recording systems include concept cartoons, sketch graphs, diagrams, annotated doodles, observation notes and reasoning questions.
British Science Week
During each year, we are inspired by British Science Week which is a celebration of STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) based around a theme.
In previous years we have enjoyed being immersed in 'Journeys' and 'Exploration and Discovery' which has led to a great sense of awe and wonder amongst the children.
We are looking forward to this year's focus - 'Connections' - which we will be celebrating later in the year!
