ISB Science Curriculum

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Our curriculum uses a 'small steps' approach to science teaching and has clear learning objectives as they help students to develop scientific understanding and grasp scientific ideas. 

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Science with a practical and logical approach. 

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Our Science curriculum teaches a practical approach to science in an engaging and logical way. Our schemes of learning also cover scientific questions around sustainability and the planet and help students develop empathy for the local and wider environment. 

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Through experiment, practice and discussion, students gain core knowledge around:

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• Scientific vocabulary.

• 'Working scientifically' skills including systematic and careful observations and following practical scientific methods. 

• The gathering and interpretation of straightforward scientific evidence.

• The use of everyday materials and scientific equipment to solve science problems. 

• Articulating scientific concepts and using five types of scientific enquiries. 

 

Students are taught science in a way that helps nurture an understanding of the value of scientific skills. Science learning is engaging and inspiring. 

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Developing Scientific Vocabulary

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Scientific vocabulary can often be confusing and abstract, making it difficult for students to fully understand and use.  Everyday words can suddenly have new meanings when used in a science context. For example, the word ‘force’ is used in everyday language to indicate an action undertaken with great effort or to be made to do something you don’t want to do. In the world of science, a force represents pushes and pulls that can make things move, stop, or change shape. You can’t see a force—which may make it harder to understand—though you can feel or observe its effects.

 

Supporting students to develop scientific vocabulary can help them to actively participate in science learning and effectively communicate their understanding. Students maybe able to better engage with new concepts because they are familiar with the words used to describe them.

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Link Science Learning to Relevant – real world concepts

 

A real world concept refers to the application or relevance of a concept, idea or skill in the practical everyday world.  Connecting science teaching to meaningful examples that reflect the nature of the real world can enhance science attainment and attitudes towards science.

 

Relevant real world scenarios can be introduced through in class teaching, outside of the classroom and by using virtual models.

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Using assessment to support learning and responsive teaching.

 

Assessment in science is useful for both students and teachers.  For students it can support them to take ownership of their learning, respond to feedback and aim towards learning goals. For teachers assessment can help identify students’ knowledge and experience at the start of a topic, inform responsive teaching and inform next steps in learning.