Science
Intent
The intention of the Science Curriculum at Marnel Junior School is for pupils to recognise the profound importance of science in everyday life and develop a deep, lifelong curiosity about the natural world.
As a core subject, science is given high prominence at Marnel. We ensure children have regular access to first-hand, experiential learning that inspires, guides, and motivates them to ask questions and investigate the world around them.
Our curriculum is deliberately sequenced to develop both substantive knowledge (scientific facts, principles, and concepts) and disciplinary knowledge (working scientifically). Children become confident and proficient in the core skills of scientific enquiry: asking questions, gathering and analysing data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions. Through our commitment to 'Awe and Wonder' and a problem-solving approach, children are empowered to become active agents of their own learning and see themselves as young scientists
Implementation
At Marnel Junior School, science is taught in line with the National Curriculum through a carefully planned and clear, progressive sequence of knowledge and skills from Year 3 to Year 6.
- Lessons utilise and adapt White Rose Science resources, structured around Rosenshein’s Principles of Instruction. Prior learning is systematically revisited, concepts are broken down into manageable steps, and new learning is modelled with high-quality teacher questioning.
- Children develop confidence across all five types of scientific enquiry (Comparative/Fair Testing, Pattern Seeking, Identifying & Classifying, Observing Over Time, and Secondary Research).
- Our children use the triangular method or narrowing method to plan their scientific lines of enquiry (investigations). Both methods feature three variables central to scientific enquiry: Controlled (same), Independent (change) and Dependent (measure). What stays the same? What will change? What will we measure? Led by an overarching investigation question.
- Other recording systems include concept cartoons, sketch graphs, diagrams, annotated doodles, observation notes and reasoning questions.
- Key scientific vocabulary is explicitly taught and embedded in every lesson. Pupils are supported to explain, justify, and debate their findings using structured oracy prompts. Disciplinary reading of high-quality non-fiction texts brings scientific concepts and real-world discoveries to life.
- In addition to formal data collection, children communicate their thinking through concept cartoons, sketch graphs, annotated diagrams, observation notes, and reasoning questions.
- AI-powered virtual labs allow children to simulate real-world, complex, or high-cost experiments safely, complementing hands-on practical learning with digital fluency.
- Learning is enriched through science museum visits, outdoor discovery, and exposure to a diverse range of scientists across history and modern STEM fields, challenging stereotypes and raising aspirations.
- AFL reviews at the end of lessons and Warm Assessments at the end of units allow teachers to check long-term retention, address misconceptions promptly, and inform future planning.
Impact
Science at Marnel helps foster the ‘Awe and Wonder’ of the natural phenomena of the world around us and actively encourages our pupils to become young scientists.
- Pupils articulate core scientific concepts accurately and apply their substantive and disciplinary knowledge with confidence across varied contexts.
- Children use precise scientific vocabulary naturally to explain phenomena, construct logical arguments, and justify conclusions based on evidence.
- Through collaborative practical investigations, children demonstrate resilience, critical evaluation skills, and logical reasoning—habits that prepare them for secondary science and wider life.
- Pupils understand the impact of science on society, health, and the environment. They appreciate diverse STEM careers and understand the positive contribution they can make to their local and global communities.
- Regular assessments demonstrate clear progress from starting points, with pupil voice confirming high levels of engagement, enjoyment, and curiosity across all year groups.
