Our approach
At St. Mary’s, we understand that science is an integral part of our everyday lives. As such, we aim to inspire children to ask questions about the world they inhabit and then provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to answer those questions.
We take an investigative approach towards science, encouraging the children to learn new scientific skills, such as close observation, careful recording and designing investigations. As much as possible, we aim for the children to build their own knowledge and understanding through these carefully planned and guided investigations.
By using an investigative focus for each science lesson, the children can take a hands-on approach to their learning. Using a wide variety of resources and stimuli enables all children to make consistent progress.
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- Volcano
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- Volcano
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- Volcano
Science is one of the core subjects in the National Curriculum and so is taught for at least 90 minutes per week in all KS1 and KS2 classes. Links are often made between Science and English, maths, ICT, geography and D&T. Our lessons are based on the Scholastic scheme of work.
We are always looking to create links with local organisations and communities, to enhance the learning experience for our children. For example, we recently used the science laboratories at another local school, so that the children could carry out a heart dissection. We are always interested to hear about local projects and organisations and actively seek to create new links.
How can parents help?
The topics covered in the science curriculum are wide and varied. They are also fun for all the family!
London is packed full of opportunities to explore cutting edge science. The Science Museum always has inspirational (and free) exhibitions. The Natural History Museum also covers some of the topics in our environmental science topics. The Royal Institution also provides a Young Scientist Centre to explore science technology outside the classroom. Why not take you child along to one of these venues?
At home, there are loads of videos you can watch, or activities you can be doing with your child using everyday items you can find in your home. Follow the links below to find out all about them.
Links
https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/home.aspx The Science Museum
https://www.nhm.ac.uk/ The Natural History Museum
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/ Contains a wide variety of videos to do with environmental aspects of science.
The following websites have some enjoyable activates that you can carry out at home and also give you the science behind what is happening. Please supervise your children when they are carrying out these experiments, where necessary.
https://www.playdoughtoplato.com/stem-activities-for-kids/ More appropriate for Key Stage 1.
https://www.arvindguptatoys.com/toys.html More appropriate for Key Stage 2.
Science Curriculum: