Curriculum aims
Learning and undertaking activities in science contribute to achievement
of the curriculum aims for all young people to become:
- successful learners who enjoy learning, make progress and achieve
- confident individuals who are able to live safe, healthy and fulfilling
lives
- responsible citizens who make a positive contribution to society.
The importance of science
The study of science fires pupils' curiosity about phenomena in the world
around them and offers opportunities to find explanations. It engages learners
at many levels, linking direct practical experience with scientific ideas.
Experimentation and modelling are used to develop and evaluate explanations,
encouraging critical and creative thought, and to show how knowledge and understanding
in science are rooted in evidence. Pupils discover how scientific ideas contribute
to technological change - affecting industry, business and medicine and improving
quality of life. They trace the development of science worldwide and recognise
its cultural significance. They learn to question and discuss issues that
may affect their own lives, the directions of societies and the future of
the world (EP6 discuss issues of concern, seeking resolution where needed).
Key concepts
There are a number of key concepts that underpin the study of science and
how science works. Pupils need to understand these concepts in order to deepen
and broaden their knowledge, skills and understanding.
Scientific thinking
- Using ideas and models to explain phenomena and developing them to generate
and test theories.
- Critically analysing and evaluating evidence from observations and experiments.
Applications and implications of science
- Applying scientific ideas brings about technological developments and
consequent changes in the way people think and behave.
- Exploring the ethical and moral implications of using and applying science.
Cultural understanding
- Recognising that modern science has its roots in many different societies
and cultures and draws on a variety of valid approaches to scientific practice.
Collaboration
- Sharing developments and common understanding across disciplines and boundaries.
Key processes
These are the essential skills and processes in science that pupils need
to learn to make progress.
Pupils should be able to:
- use a range of scientific methods and techniques to develop and test ideas
and explanations
- assess risk and work safely in the laboratory, field and workplace
- carry out practical and investigative activities, both individually and
in groups
- obtain, record and analyse data from a wide range of primary and secondary
sources, including ICT sources, and use their findings to provide evidence
for scientific explanations
- evaluate scientific evidence and working methods
- use appropriate methods, including ICT, to communicate scientific information
and contribute to presentations and discussions about scientific issues.
Range and content
This section outlines the breadth of the subject on which teachers should
draw when teaching the key concepts and key processes.
The study of science should include:
Energy, electricity and forces
- energy can be transferred usefully, stored, or wasted, but cannot be created
or destroyed
- forces are interactions between objects and can affect their shape and
motion
- electricity in circuits can produce a variety of effects
Chemical and material behaviour
- the particle model provides explanations for the different physical properties
and behaviour of matter
- elements consist of atoms that combine together in chemical reactions
to form compounds
- elements and compounds show characteristic chemical properties and patterns
in their behaviour
Organisms, behaviour and health
- life processes are supported by the organisation of cells into tissues,
organs and body systems
- the human reproductive cycle includes adolescence, fertilisation and foetal
development
- conception, growth, development, behaviour and health can be affected
by diet, drugs and disease
- all living things show variation, can be classified and are interdependent,
interacting with each other and their environment
- behaviour is influenced by internal and external factors and can be investigated
and measured
The environment, Earth and universe
- geological events are a combination of chemical and physical processes
- astronomy and space science provide insight into the nature and observed
motions of the Sun, Moon, stars, planets and other celestial bodies
- human activity and natural processes can lead to changes in the environment.
Curriculum opportunities
During the key stage pupils should be offered the following opportunities
that are integral to their learning and enhance their engagement with the
concepts, processes and content of the subject.
The curriculum should provide opportunities for pupils to:
- research, experiment, discuss and develop arguments
- pursue an independent enquiry into an aspect of science of personal interest
- use real life examples which put science into context as a basis for finding
out about science
- study science in local, national and global contexts and appreciate the
connections between these
- experience science outside the school environment including in the workplace,
where possible
- use creativity and innovation in science, and appreciate their importance
in enterprise
- recognise the importance of sustainability in scientific and technological
developments (EP1 discuss issues of concern, seeking resolution where needed)
- explore contemporary and historical scientific developments and how they
have been communicated (EP1 discuss issues of concern, seeking resolution where needed)
- prepare to specialise in a range of science subjects at key stage 4 and
consider career opportunities that are provided by science qualifications
both within science and in other areas
- consider how knowledge and understanding of science informs personal and
collective decisions, including those on substance abuse and sexual health
- make links between science and other subjects and areas of the curriculum.