Science

Science Subject Overview

KS3 Intent

We strive for our students to:

Develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics.
Develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them.
Be equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future.

At William Edwards we develop and enhance the natural inquisitive nature of our students. Through the use of practical investigations, demonstrations and contextualised problem solving.

Our KS3 curriculum is developed in-house using the experience and expertise of the department and continues to be developed and improved year on year so that students receive the best start to their secondary science education possible.

Our science curriculum offers a broad range of experiences designed to provide pupils with a progression of scientific understanding, skills and knowledge. Importance is placed on first hand experiences as well as using resources readily available to the teachers. Understanding of key ideas and common themes in science is built on across the key stages and a progression of skills allows pupils to move from early observations and exploration, to considered questioning and drawing upon ideas.

KS4 Intent

We strive for our students to:

Develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics.
Develop and learn to apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry, problem-solving skills and maths skills, both in the laboratory, in the field and in other environments.
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 their ability to evaluate claims based on science through critical analysis of the methodology, evidence and conclusions, both qualitatively and quantitatively.

Our KS4 curriculum is sequenced in a logical order to ensure students are constantly building on their prior knowledge as they progress from KS3 to KS4. As they revisit each idea, therefore, their depth of understanding grows and their ability to apply their thinking to unfamiliar contexts develops. Our intention is to engage and enthuse students in this process as they test out their ideas practically, through investigating, observing and experimenting, thereby reflecting the enquiry process used by scientists.

The continued use of common key concepts from KS3 continues through into KS4 allowing students to establish the key fundamentals which overlap across the areas of biology, chemistry and physics.

Practical skills are an integral part of the Science curriculum and due to the longer lessons are seamlessly embedded in the day-to-day teaching. Creative timetabling and a wealth of resources enables all students have access to practical work at relevant points. Appropriate and timely assessments are used to check the cumulative knowledge and skills gained by students, to identify those who require extra support whilst highlighting those who are thriving and warrant enhancement opportunities.