Science
At Charles Baines Primary School, we recognise the importance of Science in every aspect of daily life. As one of the core subjects taught in Primary Schools, we give the teaching and learning of Science the prominence it requires.
The Scientific area of learning is focussed on increasing pupils’ knowledge and understanding of our world, and with developing skills associated with Science as a process of enquiry. It will develop the natural curiosity of the child, encourage respect for living organisms and the physical environment and provide opportunities for critical evaluation of evidence. We promote cross-curricular links throughout the Scientific areas of learning to develop and build upon children’s interests, strengths and their thirst for learning.
Our Science teaching offers opportunities for children 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 that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them;
be equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of Science, today and for the future.
develop the essential scientific enquiry skills to deepen their scientific knowledge.
Use a range of methods to communicate their scientific information and present it in a systematic, scientific manner, including I.C.T., diagrams, graphs and charts.
Develop a respect for the materials and equipment they handle with regard to their own, and other children’s safety.
Develop an enthusiasm and enjoyment of scientific learning and discovery.
Children have weekly lessons in Science throughout Key Stage 1 and 2, using various programmes of study and resources. In Early years, science is taught through the children learning about the world around them in their learning through play. Additional opportunities are provided in Science, such as STEM activity days, links with local secondary schools, Science exploration visits from Science specialists and educational visits linked to the science curriculum, such as to Yorkshire Wildlife Park and Magna Science Centre.
The staff at Charles Baines School ensure that all children are exposed to high quality teaching and learning experiences, which allow them to explore their outdoor environment which is also important for their social and imaginative development. Communication is key and we value the importance of developing spoken language during science lessons. The children are immersed in subject specific language to enable development and confidence in using scientific vocabulary to articulate concepts clearly. Teachers build the children’s foundations securely with discussion to iron out misconceptions
We endeavour to ensure that the Science curriculum we provide will give children the confidence and motivation to continue to further develop their skills into the next
stage of their education and life experiences.
Autumn
Me and my community - settling into the new rules and routines of school. To make new friends and feel confident. Teaches children how they are unique and special, the importance of friendship and how people in their family, school and local community are important and can help them.
Autumn - This project teaches children about the natural changes that happen during the season of autumn, including how the weather changes, why trees lose their leaves and how wild animals prepare for winter.
Term 2
Once Upon A Time/Sparkle and Shine - This project supports children to develop a love of stories and reading. It encourages children to learn, retell and act out familiar and traditional tales including Cinderella, Goldilocks, Little Red Riding Hood, The Three Little Pigs and The Three Billy Goats Gruff. Many traditional tales are set in woodlands and forests. Fairy tales are stories that have been told to children for hundreds of years. Fairy tales are set in the past.
Sparkle and shine - This project teaches children about the celebrations that take place during the autumn and winter seasons, and focus on the significance and symbolism of light at this time of year.
Spring
Term 1
Starry Night-This project explores the differences in the world at night compared to during the day. It teaches children about the importance of a good night’s sleep, and helps them to discover what is happening in the world while they are sleeping, including finding out about nocturnal animals.
Winter Wonderland - This project teaches children about the changes that happen during winter, including the types of weather associated with winter. It also explores places that have snow all year round and the types of animals that live there
Term 2
Dangerous Dinosaurs -This exciting project teaches children about the different animals that roamed Earth millions of years ago and how they are related to animals that live on Earth today.
Puddles and Rainbows - This mini project teaches children about the weather that happens during spring and allows them to explore natural phenomena, including rainbows. It supports them to explore colour in the natural world.
Summer
Term 1
Animal Safari -This project teaches children about the animals that live around the world, how to look after animals and the importance of caring for our local and global environments.
Creep, crawl and wriggle -This mini project teaches children about invertebrates that live in their gardens and local environment.
Term 2
On the Beach - This project teaches children about the plants and animals that live at the seaside. It also explores holidays in the past and the importance of keeping safe in the Sun.
Moving On -This Reception-only project celebrates the children’s successes throughout their Reception year. It explores how they have grown and changed and supports them with the changes to come as they move into Year 1.