Science
At Chalton Lower School, we believe that a high-quality science curriculum should go beyond the National Curriculum expectations, providing pupils with experiences that enhance their understanding of the world and enrich their cultural capital. Our science curriculum has been developed with this in mind. Science learning begins in our Early Years, primarily through Knowledge and Understanding of the World and continues throughout KS1 and KS2 as a standalone subject. Our science curriculum is characterised by a focus on oracy, vocabulary, reading, and subject-specific knowledge. Across all science lessons, pupils have frequent opportunities to talk for a range of purposes and audiences, developing their ability to learn through talk and communicate effectively. Vocabulary is given particular attention in every science lesson (and throughout provision in our Early Years). A rich and varied subject-specific vocabulary is explicitly taught and reinforced throughout the curriculum. We recognise that developing a deep understanding of scientific concepts requires mastery of complex terminology, and we aim to support our pupils in achieving this.
Our Science curriculum is carefully planned to ensure that teachers are given a clear understanding of what needs to be taught in terms of substantive and disciplinary knowledge. This approach allows our teachers to plan and deliver a series of well-taught, sequential lessons that are accessible to all pupil groups. By combining subject-specific knowledge with effective teaching strategies, we aim to provide our pupils with a strong foundation in science that will prepare them for future learning and success. Our science curriculum is designed to enable our pupils to develop a love of science, explore new concepts, and apply their knowledge and skills to real-world situations.
