The Green School for Boys

  • SearchSearch Site
  • Translate Translate Page
  • Twitter Twitter
  • Facebook Facebook
  • Vacancies

Science

Head of Science: Mr A Hacking

CURRICULUM VISION

Our intent is to deliver a broad and balanced science education which prepares all our students for their future lives, either in the world of work or further education. We strive to deliver stimulating and engaging lessons which not only develop our student’s investigative skills and generate real interest, but also equip them with a knowledge and understanding of key scientific concepts.

 In particular our students will:

  • develop a secure understanding of each key concept in order to progress to the next stage.
  • be able to access a differentiated curriculum which is scaffolded with the aim to support the learning of all abilities
  • use correct scientific language and articulate their thoughts verbally confidently
  • develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science, through different types of scientific enquiry that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them
  • develop skills in core areas such as  enquiry, critical thinking, reasoning and evaluation, team work, communication,  to the best of their ability
  • engage in a wide variety of co-curricular activities such as Science enrichment & the Crest awards
  • be equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future and appreciate the contribution science makes to society
  • access careers in science and technology at a variety of levels and abilities 

 CURRICULUM PROVISION

What is Science?

Science is a way of developing students' inquiry skills and use of scientific methods, through an understanding of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. It allows students to explore their curiosities about the world around them and offers a wide variety of transferable skills that they will use in the future.

Why do we study Science?

Studying Science will allow our boys to take an informed part in decisions, and to take appropriate actions, that affect their own wellbeing, and the wellbeing of society and the environment. An important part of science education is to be able to look at the scientific process and reflect on how science impacts on our daily lives in order to be able to contribute to debates about climate change, alternative energy choices, and genetically modified food for example, with knowledge, reason and understanding.

What do we study?

Our curriculum introduces 10 Big Ideas in Science across Biology, Chemistry & Physics, with Maths & Laboratory skills embedded. Students learn investigative, observational and practical skills with cross-curricular links established allowing them to study with context, meaning & purpose. Going into Sixth Form, students may choose to study one or more disciplines of science, depending on the career path they may choose

To view a full summary of our KS3 and KS4 Science curriculum please click here    

To view information about Science A levels at the Green School Sixth Form please click the relevant link for Biology  Chemistry  Physics

 

CURRICULUM IMPLEMENTATION

 How do we study in Science? 

The science curriculum is organised into 10 key ideas across three sciences, these big ideas are explored during KS3 and built upon further in KS4 through a spiral design.

Our ethos strives to encourage our boys to reach beyond their grasp, therefore during  year 7 and 8 pupils are taught in mixed ability groups, with setting in KS4. The boys are taught all three science disciplines from year 7 and this will continue at GCSE level with the majority of boys being entered for the Separate science GCSE. For students who find science a little more challenging there will be a group following the AQA Combined Science: Trilogy course, which is the equivalent of the previous core and additional science courses and is worth 2 GCSEs.

Presentation of Work 

Work within books is to be neat and presentable. All lessons should be dated and titled, and graphs and tables drawn should be done in pencil with a ruler. A Unit of Work Checklist is given at the start of a new topic allowing students to reflect & track their progress.

 Home Learning

Home learning in science has been designed to consolidate knowledge from the lesson, practise application & self quiz to build on their study & metacognition skills. In addition students are encouraged to read around topics being studied and develop their curiosity & inquiry outside of the classroom & bring their questions back to encourage discussions within lessons.

 Co - curricular activities

  • Science club for Y7 & 8 takes place every Wednesday during enrichment afternoons.
  • Crest Awards – Open to students from year 8 to year 13, students work on projects towards bronze and silver awards. 
  • Educational visits such as to the Salters Chemistry Festival & the Natural History museum.
  • Annual STEAM week as part of our Careers Provision.

How parents/carers can support their children

  • Encourage regular support with homework and revision and the use of homework clubs at school.
  • Encourage awareness of current world issues  involving science through reading, watching the news and documentaries
  • Show support through asking students what they are studying and open up discussions at home. 

Recommended Reading

  • Delivery of the science curriculum across all key stages is supported by our online resource ‘Kerboodle’, providing students access to the textbooks used in class.
  • BBC Bitesize Science
  • Catalyst Magazine (https://catalyst-magazine.org)

CURRICULUM IMPACT

Assessment 

  • Diagnostic and formative assessments take place regularly in lessons.
  • Summative assessments are used at the end of topics to identify strengths and improvements. Students then respond to this feedforward to close any gaps in their knowledge.
  • There are formal examinations at the end of each year.

Careers Leading on from Science

  • Research, Medicine, Engineering, Academic, Pharmacy, Veterinary, Forensics, Aeronautics, Environment Scientist, Quality control analyst, Analytical Scientist, Data Scientist, Author, etc.   
  • This list is not exhaustive, Science develops many transferable skills relevant in any career or venture.

 To view more information about our school Careers programme please click here