Science

The science curriculum at Bank End Primary Academy provides children with a coherent, substantive knowledge of the scientific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics that provides pupils with:

a secure, deep understanding of the nature, processes and principles of science through clear instruction and deliberate practice.
an ability to apply long-term knowledge to make predictions and connections between disciplines, and recognise the uses and implications of science in the wider world.
Gradual understanding of ‘vertical concepts in biology, chemistry and physics’.

It also intents to embed core disciplinary knowledge, and the ability to systematically approach challenging, scientifically-valid questions through:

Scientific Attitudes & Planning

asking scientifically relevant scientific questions and designing controlled investigations.

Measuring & Observing

learning how to use scientific apparatus like rulers and thermometers, and making systematic observations.

Recording & Presenting

setting up data collection tables and presenting this data in a variety of charts and graphs.

Analysing & Evaluating

interpreting and analysing findings; drawing conclusions and evaluating the reliability of investigations.

Our aim is to generate excitement for science, that inspires a curiosity about natural phenomena and the world around them.

Implementation

Teachers are provided with an additional three planning days per year in addition to their PPA, to plan their curriculum. As part of this planning process, teachers plan the following:

A knowledge organiser which outlines knowledge (including vocabulary) all children must master
A sequence of learning which follows the Rosenshine Principles of Instruction
A cycle of lessons for each subject, which carefully plans for progression and depth
Low stakes quizzes which are used regularly to support learners’ ability to retrieve and recall knowledge and increase space in the working memory
Challenge questions for pupils to apply their learning in a philosophical/open manner
Trips and visits from experts who will enhance the learning experience

Impact

Our Science Curriculum is high quality, well thought out and is planned to demonstrate progression. If children are keeping up with the curriculum, they are deemed to be making good or better progress. In addition, we measure the impact of our curriculum through the following methods:

▪ A reflection on standards achieved against the planned outcomes

▪ A celebration of learning for each term which demonstrates progression across the school

▪ Tracking of knowledge in pre and post learning quizzes

▪ Pupil discussions about their learning

Our science curriculum is also planned in a way which promotes the cultural capital of all our children. We enhance our curriculum especially for the most disadvantaged by organising guest speakers (STEM), organising Science weeks which focus on the wider world and promote careers in science. We also provide additional opportunities such as farm visits and work in the woodlands.