Science
Science Intent
At Hook Junior School, our commitment to fostering a profound appreciation for Science goes beyond the classroom. Our intention is to instil in our pupils a recognition of the vital role Science plays in their everyday lives. As a core subject in primary education, we accord the teaching and learning of Science the prominence it deserves.
Our approach is designed to not only impart scientific knowledge but also to nurture confidence, stimulate curiosity, and foster investigative and enquiry skills among our students. Aligned with the National Curriculum and supported by Hampshire Learning Journeys, our meticulously planned lessons integrate with the school's overall framework, creating a culture where scientific exploration is not just encouraged but celebrated.
The Scientific curriculum at Hook Junior School aims to expand pupils' knowledge and understanding of the world while honing the skills integral to the scientific process. We aspire to cultivate a mindset where students learn to think like scientists, demonstrating respect for living organisms and the physical environment. Critical evaluation of evidence is woven into the fabric of our teaching, ensuring a holistic comprehension of scientific principles.
In alignment with the National Curriculum, our Science teaching at Hook Junior School offers a multi-faceted approach:
- Substantive and disciplinary Understanding: We facilitate the development of scientific knowledge across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics and refine the disciplinary skills involved in studying these.
- Enquiry-based Learning: Through diverse science enquiries, students explore and answer questions about the world around them, nurturing an appreciation for the nature, processes, and methods of Science.
- Real-world Relevance: Equipping students with the knowledge to understand the present and future implications of Science is a cornerstone of our curriculum.
- Enquiry Skills: We prioritise the development of essential scientific enquiry skills, empowering students to deepen their understanding of scientific concepts.
- Effective Communication: Students learn to communicate scientific information effectively, utilising various methods such as ICT, diagrams, graphs, and charts.
- Safety and Respect: A fundamental aspect of our teaching involves instilling a deep respect for materials and equipment, emphasising the importance of safety for themselves and their peers.
- Enthusiasm and Enjoyment: We aim to kindle an enduring enthusiasm and enjoyment for scientific learning and discovery.
Our curriculum, guided by the National Curriculum, Hampshire Learning Journey, and our bespoke Science progression document, follows a structured enquiry model. Weekly Science lessons are complemented by enriching experiences, including Science Week, STEM activities, and engaging visits and speakers. Our ultimate goal is to fill our pupils with the confidence and motivation to carry their scientific skills forward into their future education and life experiences. At Hook Junior School, Science is not just a subject; it's a journey of curiosity, discovery, and lifelong learning.
Science Implementation
At Hook Junior School, we are committed to providing a rich and engaging science curriculum that aligns with the National Curriculum, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and our school policies. Our dedicated approach to science education is designed to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for exploration among our students.
Curriculum Structure: Science holds a prominent place in our curriculum, with two hours dedicated to weekly lessons. The duration of each unit follows the guidelines set by the Hampshire Inspection and Advisory Service (HIAS), ensuring a well-balanced and comprehensive learning experience.
Progression of Substantive and Disciplinary Knowledge and Skills: Our science curriculum is intricately designed to guarantee a well-defined advancement in both substantive and disciplinary knowledge. We implement the Hampshire Learning Journey, leading students through a seamless sequence of investigations that not only imparts key substantive knowledge but also cultivates expertise in the disciplinary skills involved. Pupils delve into the Hampshire Investigation Model, acquiring the ability to plan, conduct, and analyse their investigations, fostering a methodical approach to scientific inquiry.
Teacher-Led Positive Atmosphere: Teachers at Hook Junior School cultivate a positive attitude toward science within their classrooms and utilise outdoor spaces when suitable to enhance the learning experience. We firmly believe that every child is capable of achieving high standards in science, and our educators work to reinforce this expectation.
Holistic Teaching Approach: Science is taught in carefully planned and arranged topic blocks by class teachers, allowing for in-depth exploration and understanding. Problem-solving opportunities are woven into our planning, encouraging children to ask questions and use their scientific skills for independent discovery. Curiosity is celebrated, creating an environment that stimulates a love for learning.
Building on Previous Learning: Our curriculum is designed to build upon the learning and skill development of previous years. As students begin progress, they gain confidence in selecting, using scientific equipment, and interpreting results. We celebrate their growing ability to draw conclusions based on real evidence.
Working Scientifically Skills: Working Scientifically skills are integrated into lessons, ensuring a continuous development throughout a child’s school career. New vocabulary and challenging concepts are introduced through direct teaching, fostering a deep understanding of scientific principles.
Practical Application and Outdoor Learning: Teachers at Hook Junior School demonstrate the use of scientific equipment and Working Scientifically skills to embed understanding. We actively seek opportunities for outdoor learning, providing workshops with experts to broaden children’s understanding of their surroundings.
In conclusion, at Hook Junior School, we are dedicated to creating a dynamic and inspiring science curriculum that not only meets national standards but goes beyond, instilling a passion for scientific inquiry in every student. Through engaging lessons, a positive atmosphere, and practical application, we aim to encourage a generation of inquisitive minds ready to embrace the challenges of the future.
Science impact
At Hook Junior School, our vibrant science curriculum delivers an engaging and high-quality learning experience, laying the foundation for a profound understanding of the world. We instil in our students the awareness that science is transformative and crucial to global prosperity.
Through collaborations with national agencies like the STEM association, our students explore diverse career possibilities in science.
Our assessment practices blend formal and informal strategies, with a focus on immediate formative assessment to address misconceptions promptly.
Upon completing primary education, our students leave with a fun, high-quality science education, fostering a genuine love for inquiry. They exhibit:
Passion for Science: Inspiring continued interest in further study and careers.
Real-Life Knowledge Retention: Grasping science with real-life relevance.
Critical Thinking: Questioning ideas critically and reflecting on knowledge.
Articulate Understanding: Expressing comprehension with rich, scientific language.
Disciplinary Skills: Proficiently organising, recording, and interpreting results.
Collaborative Learning: Thriving in practical investigations.
At Hook Junior School, we nurture curious minds, educating a generation ready to explore and contribute to the dynamic world of science.