Science

Science at Mill Water is essential in supporting our pupils to develop their knowledge and understanding of the world around them. It is made accessible to all by being delivered through practical, hands on approach which then moves on to more formal methods of recording where appropriate. 

Science is delivered through a topic approach, planned on a rolling programme that promotes progress, revisiting and overlearning. 

Pre-formal

Pupils are encouraged to develop their 5 areas of engagement (exploration, realisation, anticipation, persistence and initiation) through sensory and practical activities. These activities give the opportunity for communication, interaction and working alongside others to experience the world around them.

Semi-formal

Pupils learn through practical activities, focusing on developing their knowledge and understanding of how and why things happen. They are encouraged to hypothesise and consider the results, and where possible be able to explain this to an adult or a peer. Activities are often carried out in groups to encourage communication, interaction and cooperation with others.

Formal

The science curriculum focuses on building independent problem solving skills, and looks to develop a pupils’ ability to explore, question and discover for themselves. As well as learning through practical experiences, pupils are taught to make predications, observations and evaluate their results using subject specific language that is explicitly taught within the topic. Pupils will develop the skills to be able to record their work in a variety of ways. 

Pupils will also discuss current affairs and relevant scientific issues such as climate change. They will be taught to consider and implement strategies within their control to increase sustainability within their homes and at school. 

Additional Approaches

Outdoor learning plays a significant part in developing Mill Water pupils knowledge and understanding of the world. Our specialist Outdoor Learning Team work with pupils across the school to provide the vehicle in which lots of science subject specific learning can be delivered. Outdoor learning activities include Forest School, gardening and walking groups. They cover the same topics that are being delivered in class to provide opportunities for the application of knowledge and skills in a different environment.