Science
How do we approach Science at Northwood?
Our Science curriculum provides the foundation for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics.
At Northwood, pupils are taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Our pupils acquire a key body of knowledge and concepts which enable them to recognise the power of rational explanation, as well as developing a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena.
Our pupils are encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave and analyse causes. Our principle aim is to develop children’s knowledge, understanding and skills, as well as a sense of enjoyment. We encourage children to ask, as well as answer, scientific questions. Where ever possible we involve pupils in practical activities as these increase enthusiasm, motivation and provide first hand experiences.
Science at Home with Marvin and Milo!
Each half term the whole school gets involved in science challenges at home. The children receive an instruction leaflet from Marvin and Milo that tells them how to conduct an experiment at home. The children draw pictures, takes photos and even film their
experiments. Winners are chosen from
each Key Stage and they receive a copy
of the Whizz Pop Bang
Science magazine!
During years 1 and 2, pupils should be taught to use the following practical scientific methods, processes and skills through the teaching of the programme of study content:
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asking simple questions and recognising that they can be answered in different ways
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observing closely, using simple equipment
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performing simple tests
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identifying and classifying
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using their observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions
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gathering and recording data to help in answering questions
During years 3 and 4, pupils should be taught to use the following practical scientific methods, processes and skills through the teaching of the programme of study content:
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asking relevant questions and using different types of scientific enquiries to answer them
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setting up simple practical enquiries, comparative and fair tests
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making systematic and careful observations and, where appropriate, taking accurate measurements using standard units, using a range of equipment, including thermometers and data loggers
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gathering, recording, classifying and presenting data in a variety of ways to help in answering questions
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recording findings using simple scientific language, drawings, labelled diagrams, keys, bar charts, and tables
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reporting on findings from enquiries, including oral and written explanations, displays or presentations of results and conclusions
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using results to draw simple conclusions, make predictions for new values, suggest improvements and raise further questions
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identifying differences, similarities or changes related to simple scientific ideas and processes
During years 5 and 6, pupils should be taught to use the following practical scientific methods, processes and skills through the teaching of the programme of study content:
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planning different types of scientific enquiries to answer questions, including recognising and controlling variables where necessary
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taking measurements, using a range of scientific equipment, with increasing accuracy and precision, taking repeat readings when appropriate
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recording data and results of increasing complexity using scientific diagrams and labels, classification keys, tables, scatter graphs, bar and line graphs
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using test results to make predictions to set up further comparative and fair tests
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reporting and presenting findings from enquiries, including conclusions, causal relationships and explanations of and a degree of trust in results, in oral and written forms such as displays and other presentations
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identifying scientific evidence that has been used to support or refute ideas or arguments
Pupil Voice
"I find Science really interesting as I learn lots of new, exciting information."
"I love doing experiments. They make learning in
Science fun!"
"I really enjoyed learning about animals and nature, I liked watching our Caterpillars grow."