Science
Children explore Science through a detailed and varied programme of activities using practical experiences and discussion.
Our aim is for all children to leave Paston Ridings as capable, curious, inquisitive, analytical and enquiring young people. We aim to do this by providing a curriculum that is broad, challenging and fun, teaching children how to carry out fair tests, investigations and how to apply . During Science lessons, pupils are taught how to how to think, learn, solve problems and make informed decisions. These skills are integral to every aspect of a student’s education and life, from school and beyond. Much of the science curriculum is delivered through broad curriculum themes. Key scientific concepts and knowledge are revisited and reinforced within both key stages.
It is our intention that by the end of each Key Stage, each child will understand a variety of scientific concepts and be able to confidently discuss them. We aim for all children to work scientifically during lessons and work collaboratively investigating different concepts and ideas.
To ensure children make the necessary progress and are challenged appropriately, teachers plan enjoyable, engaging and inspiring practical activities linked to our Cornerstones curriculum. These lessons link science concepts to everyday life so the children can understand the world around them in a scientific way. Our lessons aim to develop a child's social skills by working in teams and encourage resilience, determination, perseverance, communication, collaboration, questioning and problem-solving.
Year 1
What are parts of the body called?
What are my five senses?
Can I notice similarities and differences between types of plants?
Why do I need to exercise and eat healthy food?
What does a seed and a plant need to grow?
Why is water important to me?
Year 2
How does a toy car move?
Which items use electricity?
How do I make a simple circuit?
Can I identify if a material is living or non-living thing?
What happens when things heat up or cool down?
Where do different animals live?
Year 3
What is friction?
How do I measure forces?
Which forces are ‘pushes’ and which are ‘pulls’?
How does air resistance affect a moving object?
Can I use a switch in an electrical circuit?
How does a plant spread seeds?
How do plants and animals link in food chains?
Year 4
How do we see objects?
Can I change the direction light travels?
How does sound travel?
What is the difference between pitch and volume?
How does exercise affect my body?
What changes do I notice when materials are heated?
What are the major organs of the body?
Year 5
What are the properties of different materials?
How can I find out the properties of materials?
What happens when different substances are mixed liquids or heated?
Can I separate substances in different ways?
Can I classify plants and animals?
What are the main stages in both animal and plant life cycles?
What factors might affect a food chain?
Year 6
How do the earth and moon move in relation to the sun?
What is the effect of gravity on objects?
Do objects weigh more or less in water?
How big and how far away is the sun in relation to other planets?
How can I find out the differences between types of rocks and soils?
How do shadows form and how do they change?
Which materials are the best insulators?