Science represents a body of knowledge which is built up through experimental testing of ideas and which is organised in a way that makes it easy to use. It is also a methodology, a practical way of finding reliable answers to questions.

Science is essential to our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Aims:

Our aims in teaching Science are that all children will:

• retain and develop their natural sense of curiosity about the world around them

• develop a set of attitudes which will promote scientific ways of thinking, including perseverance, objectivity and a recognition of the importance of teamwork

• come to understand the nature of “scientific method” involving: careful observation, the making and testing of predictions, the design of fair and controlled experiments, the drawing of meaningful conclusions through critical reasoning and the evaluation of evidence
• become effective communicators of scientific ideas, facts and data
• begin to build up a body of scientific knowledge and understanding which will serve as a foundation for future enquiry.
• find science enjoyable

Principles of the Teaching and Learning of Science

Science is important because

• it is a body of knowledge essential to our understanding of ourselves and the world around us
• it provides an understanding of how scientific and technological change has impacted on the development of the world and the quality of our lives
• it encourages questioning and discussion skills as well as creative and imaginative thought
• the skills and knowledge of science can be applied throughout everyday life