Science

A high-quality science education provides the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Science has changed our lives and it is vital for the world’s future and prosperity. All children should be taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, children should be encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. Children should be encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes. Children will be working as scientists to explore through hands on activities to create a sense of awe and wonder about the world they live in. Science should encourage rich questioning which stimulates thinking and makes children want to find out the answers to these ‘real life’ problems. In order for children to achieve well, they must not only acquire the necessary knowledge but also understand its value, enjoy the experience of working scientifically and sustain their interest in learning it. Children need to be exposed to all five types of scientific enquiry: observation over time, research, pattern seeking, classifying and identifying and comparative/fair testing. Children need to learn about scientists who have made a difference in society and think about the role they play in the real world. Then they are more likely to continue to study science and use that learning for work, for family and to contribute as informed citizens.