Luddendenfoot J&I School

Science Policy

Introduction

Science is concerned with logical thought and investigative thinking. It is a subject that incorporates a range of skills, and brings an awareness of the natural and physical world in which the children live. It is an opportunity for children with poor recording skills to be on an equal footing with their peers, and for all children to enjoy discovering things about their world.

Aims

The school aims to encourage pupils’ to:-

1. To develop ways of investigating, checking ideas and using evidence to do this through scientific enquiry and first hand experience.
2. To develop an understanding of the world and to become caring people who will respect the environment.
3. To have a positive and confident attitude to science, with a desire to make discoveries and observations.
4. To understand issues of safety, and use equipment with care.
5. To understand the concept of a fair test, and to use this concept in their work.
6. To develop social, teamwork and leadership skills to help them in all areas of their lives.

Broad guidelines for the teaching of the subject

1.  The activities offered will reflect the breadth and balance required by the National Curriculum Orders.  The QCA scheme of work will be followed in order to ensure that the curriculum is covered. A two-year cycle will accommodate the mixed aged classes.

2.  Science will be taught as a separate subject, with an appropriate time given to it each week, depending on the age of the children. Children with special needs will be supported within the classroom.

3.  A range of learning opportunities will be available, including practical work in and out of the classroom, more formal written work, and for the older children, project work that allows them to be more independent in their learning.

4. Resources will be stored in a central location, separated into the different scientific areas.  Science has links to many other subjects, including maths, DT, geography, PHSE and English. These links will be used where appropriate, at the teacher’s discretion, but the science work will be self-contained.

5.  Health and safety issues will be dealt with as they arise. Children will all be made aware of the safe way to handle equipment and the ‘Be Safe’ guidelines will be followed.

6.  Pupils work will be assessed by the class teacher, using national Curriculum level descriptors, through ongoing assessment exercises, work samples, QCQ expectations with must, could and should will be assessed half termly, SATs testing where appropriate, Foundations Stage will be assessed linked to the profiles and will be reported on in the yearly reports. These assessments will inform future planning.

7.  Records of assessment as outlined above will be kept in children’s individual files.

Evaluation and Review

1.The Role of the Co-ordinator

The co-ordinator will lead the teaching of science within the school. S/he will be responsible for the implementation of the policy, under the direction of the Head Teacher. S/he will be responsible for the management and ordering of resources. S/he will be available to support staff in the teaching of science, if any member of staff requires guidance. S/he will monitor science throughout the school, to ensure continuity and progression. S/he will keep the governors informed about the science teaching within the school.

2. Process of evaluation

All staff will have a copy of the policy in their individual policy file. Any issues that arise from the implementation of the policy or the teaching of science can be raised at staff meetings, or as part of training sessions. The policy will be reviewed when needed, as set out in the schools development plan.

3. Process of review

1. The policy will be reviewed regularly, in line with the schools development plan.
2. All staff and Governors will be included in this procedure.

Appendices

1.Health and safety

1. Reference to LEA and school safety policies.
2. Reference to safety advice to be found in the QCA scheme where relevant.

2. Consultation

1. Staff and Governors.
2. Parents.

3. Legislation

1. The policy is in accordance with the National Curriculum September 2000.