Intent

At Manor Infant School we believe that science is inclusive and fosters curiosity in all children. We want children to experience and observe natural phenomena as well as look more closely at the natural and humanly constructed world around them. Through our science topics we encourage the children to develop their curiosity by encouraging them to ask questions about what they notice, express their opinions and make links with other areas of learning such as Geography and Maths.

At Manor we aim to teach scientific concepts through the use of first-hand practical experiences, as well as using some appropriate secondary sources, such as books, photographs and videos to support children’s learning.

The children have opportunities to develop their understanding of different scientific ideas by using different types of scientific enquiry to answer their own questions. These include observing changes over a period of time, noticing patterns, making links as well as grouping and classifying things.

Implementation

At Manor Infant School the science curriculum consists of teaching the scientific areas of learning (e.g. plants, materials and animals). KS1 also conduct a year longitudinal study for example looking at seasonal changes which support their understanding of the world around them.

Each topic follows a logical progression of ideas allowing the children to make effective links within an area of science as well as build links between concepts. In addition to this, the learning journeys allow for clear understanding for both the staff and children about what the important learning within each area of science/lesson is.

The teaching of science across Manor has an underpinning focus on the working scientifically elements of scientific learning; looking to challenge the ideas of children and to encourage development as scientists across KS1.

Most lessons are enquiry based, providing children with authentic experiences, context and relevance for the key idea they have been learning. This allows children to make cross-curricular links and see how science relates to the world around them.

Our school has a clear focus on the development of speech and language and allowing children to make links and embed key scientific vocabulary.  

Impact

At Manor Infant School we assess children at the end of the unit to ensure a depth of understanding and knowledge of the scientific concept taught. In each lesson the adults will be continually assessing each child’s progress to ensure misconceptions are identified and resolved within the lesson.