Rationale

At Riverside Primary School, we believe that good teaching of Science offers pupils the opportunity to access a wealth of knowledge and information which contributes to a secure understanding of how and why things work like they do. Science explains the mechanics and reasoning behind the daily function of complex systems, including the human body. Through secure teaching, pupils will use this knowledge to aid their understanding of new concepts, make well-informed decisions and pursue new interests. Science provides visible proof of many facts pupils read about in books or see on the television; this helps to increase their understanding and helps pupils retain that information.

At Riverside Primary School, we believe these principles underpin good teaching and learning in the Science curriculum:

• Children are encouraged to follow their own line of enquiry, by participating in child initiated experiments. They ask their own questions and select tools and equipment to conduct their experiments.
• Teachers have secure subject knowledge for their year group.
• Children are involved in practical activities to help consolidate or introduce their learning to a topic or unit of work.
• Teachers and children enjoy and are enthusiastic about Science lessons.
• Pupils are inquisitive and independent learners.
• Teachers plan experiments and practical activities well which enhances and extends children’s learning.
• Full use is made of the outside area where appropriate.
• Trips and visits are planned into the Science curriculum.
• Children are encouraged to research ideas and theories in order to explain results of their experiments or to extend their learning.
• Teachers and children are confident in using scientific vocabulary.
• Teachers create memorable Science lessons for the children.
• Formative assessment is used to plan lessons and to take the lessons in a different direction if required.
• Teachers use open ended questions to engage children and extend their thinking.
• Working scientifically principles are embedded into lessons.