Science

Science 

At Isleham we aim for children to explore, investigate and understand the world around us 

At our school, Science sparks curiosity and encourages children to ask questions about the world they live in. Our curriculum is designed to develop scientific knowledge, investigative skills, and a sense of wonder, while preparing pupils to think critically and make informed decisions about issues that affect their lives and the wider world. 

How our Science curriculum meets statutory guidance 

Our scheme of work fulfils the requirements of the National Curriculum for Science. It ensures pupils develop: 

  • A secure understanding of the key areas of biology, chemistry, and physics. 

  • The ability to work scientifically by planning, carrying out, and evaluating investigations. 

  • An appreciation of how science has shaped the past and continues to influence the future. 

What children learn 

  • Biology: Living things, habitats, plants, animals (including humans), evolution, and inheritance. 

  • Chemistry: Materials, states of matter, changes, and properties of substances. 

  • Physics: Forces, light, sound, electricity, Earth and space. 

  • Working scientifically: Asking questions, making predictions, setting up tests, recording data, and drawing conclusions. 

Our approach 

  • Spiral curriculum: Key concepts are revisited and built upon each year, ensuring progression from EYFS through to Year 6. 

  • Practical and hands-on: Lessons are enquiry-based, giving children opportunities to experiment, observe, and investigate. 

  • Real-world relevance: Pupils learn how science impacts everyday life, technology, health, and the environment. 

Developing wider skills 

Science also develops transferable skills such as: 

  • Problem-solving and critical thinking. 

  • Teamwork and collaboration during investigations. 

  • Communication and oracy through presenting findings. 

  • Resilience and curiosity when faced with challenges. 

Assessment 

  • Formative assessment: Retrieval practice, questioning, and observation are used in every lesson to check understanding. 

  • Summative assessment: End-of-unit quizzes, knowledge catchers, and practical investigations provide evidence of progress and attainment. 

Long-term plan 

Each year group explores a range of engaging topics, for example: 

  • Year 3: Rocks, plants, light, and forces. 

  • Year 4: States of matter, sound, electricity, and habitats. 

  • Year 5: Properties and changes of materials, Earth and space, forces, and life cycles. 

  • Year 6: Evolution and inheritance, electricity, light, and the circulatory system. 

Skills for life 

By the end of primary school, pupils will have developed secure scientific knowledge and the ability to think and work like scientists. They will leave with curiosity, confidence, and the skills to explore and understand the world around them.