Science

At St Nicholas we use the online platform Developing Experts to support Science teaching and learning, with the aim of developing our own St Nicholas Science experts! Using this platform ensures that skills and knowledge are built upon progressively, children are actively engaged as young scientists and that the requirements of the National Curriculum are met.

An overview of Science themes from Year R to Year 6 can be viewed on the 'Curriculum Overview' section of the website.

At St Nicholas, we aim for every child to: -

develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics.
develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science enquiries
are equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future.
consider ambitious career paths in science, technology, mechanics or engineering.
develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about the world around them.

Teaching and Learning

Teachers use the online Platform Developing Experts to support the delivery of each Science unit. Adaptions are made to support the varying needs of learners and to effectively incorporate the benefits of our local environment.

Lessons are usually weekly but sometimes they are blocked to allow for extended time with some investigations.

Each lesson follows a similar approach which is for children to: -

Share what they know already about this subject
Reflect on previous learning
Introduce new key vocabulary, known as Rocket Words
Have active, practical engagement in exploring the subject material to stimulate and maintain a natural curiosity
Ask questions in order that their curiosity leads to authentic and purposeful science investigation
Communicate their reflections and findings in an appropriate and meaningful way
Reflect on their new learning for the lesson

Assessment

We assess children's learning against the key objectives for their Year Group. If a child is working below this level, we refer to the appropriate programme of study and aim to close any gaps, to enable them to achieve as well as their peers.

We use a tracking system called Sonar, to identify National Curriculum objectives met and those still to cover.

Teachers assess formatively using a range of methods including vocabulary quizzes, end of topic assessments, class discussions and skills gained through practical tasks.