Our topic titles are based around the national curriculum expectations and are taught through sequences of learning with clear end points. A ‘big question’ is asked at the beginning of the topic and answered as the children progress through the lessons. This ensures children have the opportunity to learn deeply.

Teachers plan practical activities to meet the lesson requirements which will engage the children as well as encourage them to explore, ask questions, make predictions, create plans and carry out investigations and observations, ending with a clear summary and conclusion.

Learning is recorded through a range of medium including written accounts, diagrams, statistics, videos and presentations. This ensures all children are able to access the learning and explain their understanding at their individual level.

Using the White Rose Science scheme of work, as the spine for the learning journey, allows a small-stepped approach to learning. It provides a range of presentations and videos which engage children and provides clear and concise explanations. New vocabulary is introduced throughout the sequence with opportunities to revise the use of language introduced in earlier topics. Children also learn about famous scientists and the role they have played and the difference they have made to the world in which they live.

Children use a range of equipment to secure their understanding by exploring and experimenting whilst learning. We believe this secures understanding.

Assessments are carried out during every lesson, and flashbacks are used to check for understanding of prior content taught. Children also assess their own learning as well as that of their peers. Misconceptions are addressed as they are identified and where a gap in knowledge is recognised these are dealt with through our Memories After Dinner (MAD) sessions. End points are tracked using the online assessment portal Insight. Clear and concise success criteria is provided allowing children to assess their own understanding.