Science

Science

At Discovery, we encourage pupils to understand themselves and the world around them and to develop a sense of where they live, including access to opportunities that develop the cultural capital needed to raise aspirations. To communicate in different ways and to pose and answer questions using appropriate vocabulary. Pupils will develop key knowledge needed to progress onto a more formal curriculum.

EYFS and Informal Pathway

Children develop their scientific skills and knowledge by exploring the world around them. They observe, ask questions, and try things out, like investigating how plants grow, exploring different materials, or learning about animals. Hands-on activities, such as mixing water and sand or watching ice melt, help them notice changes and understand how things work. Through play and guided exploration, children develop curiosity, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of basic scientific ideas in a way that feels natural and fun.

Semi Formal Pathway

Intent in science (and science-based activities): Pupils will understand themselves and the world around them.Pupils will develop ideas and ways of working that enable them to make sense of the world in which they live through practical activities and investigations.Pupils will cultivate and foster a sense of wonder about natural phenomena. Pupils will communicate in different ways, posing and answering questions using appropriate vocabulary, building on prior knowledge and linking ideas together.

In science, by the end of the semi-formal curriculum children will be able to: Understand the seasons, weather and passing of time (days, weeks, years)Explore the natural world around them, making observations, recognising, naming and comparing animals and plantsBegin to understand life cycles of plants and animalsKnow some similarities and differences between the natural world around them and contrasting environments Understand some important processes and changes in the natural world around them, including changing states of matter

Knowledge organisers outline the key new knowledge for each unit and the prior knowledge needed for pupils to make meaningful connections to new learning.

Long Term Plans

Nursery

Reception

Informal Pathway

Year 1 and 2

Year 3 and 4

Year 5 and 6

Semi -Formal

Year 9+ Curriculum

PFA	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Science	Solar System The movement of the Earth and other planets relative to the sunDescribe the movement of the moon relative to the EarthUnderstand that the movement of the Earth causes day and nightName the planets in our Solar SystemUnderstand that planets are approximately spherical bodies	Evolution Explore how living things on Earth have changed over timeUnderstand that characteristics are passed from parents to their offspringIdentify how are animals and plants are adapted to suit their environment and that adaptations may lead to evolution	Electricity Which appliances need electricity to work  Understand circuit symbols Create a simple electrical circuit Know that a switch opens and closes a circuit Know common conductors and insulators and associate metals with being good conductors Associate the brightness of a light with the number and voltage of cells

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