One of the key drivers within science is encouraging children to work scientifically. This helps children to answer scientific questions about the world around them.

From Early Years to Year 6, there are 8 science enquiry skills that constitute the working scienticically theme.

   1)  Asking questions.

   2) Planning and setting up different types of enquiries.

   3) Performing Tests.

   4) Using equipment.

   5) Observing and measuring.

   6) Identifying and classifying.

   7) Gathering and recording data.

   8) Reporting, presenting and communicating data / findings.

PROGRESSION THROUGH THE YEARS - with regards to the skill of using equipment.

EYFS

The children choose the resources they need for their chosen activity. This could be, for example: the graded buckets in the sand area, graded cyclinders and other measuring equipment in the water area, chosing which implement to use in the cooking area or choosing what size car wheels they wish to use for a printing activity.

The children handle the equipment and tools effectively.

(These two scientific enquiry skills also link into the early learning goals of: self confidence & self awareness and moving and handling.)

Key Stage 1 (Years 1/2)

The children use simple measures and equipment (e.g. hand lenses or egg timers) to gather data.

Lower Key Stage 2 (Years 3/4)

The children take accurate measurements using standard units (e.g. cm, m, g, kg, seconds or minutes). They learn how to use a range of (new) equipment such as data loggers / thermometers appropriately.

Upper Key Stage 2 (Years 5/6)

The children choose the most appropriate equipment to make measurments with increasing precision and explain how to use it accurately. They take repeated measurements where appropriate.

Scientific Visitors in School

We arrange for lots of scientists to visit school which really engages the children and promotes a love of science.