Presentations >> The New Curriculum in Science

The revised national curriculum took effect in September 2008 and Science subject leaders and teachers are now carefully considering how best they can deliver Science in Key Stages 2 and 3 in ways that will also enhance pupils’ wider and key skills.

Currently many teachers are unsure about the appropriate balance between scientific skills and knowledge, the four framework skills (communication, number, ICT and thinking), about how they can assess progress and attainment effectively in Science and about where they can find resources and ideas that will engage and excite their pupils.

The following presentation summarises some of the ideas and resources we have shared with science leaders and teachers at recent INSET events. These ideas and resources are linked to the following aspects of the new curriculum for Science.

• the scientific content (range) and science specific skills
• the framework skills applicable to that subject (all four in science)
• materials for ensuring effective transition between KS2 and 3
• the place of AfL at the centre of teaching and learning
• the pedagogy proposed by the new curriculum and supporting documents

These may help colleagues as they develop programmes of work for their pupils.
The INSET programme for the next two terms will provide opportunities for teachers to consider how they can help pupils to become good at enquiry, how they can improve scientific communication and how science can provide good opportunities for pupils to develop their number skills. The courses are available separately for Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 and subject leaders or classroom teachers would benefit from attending the course.

Details of these courses are available on the ESIS website or can be obtained from Mike Tibbott, Science Adviser, by telephoning 01443 827554 or e-mailing mike.tibbott@esis.org.uk

 

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