Science
Preston Manor’s Curriculum Intent - science
We aim to offer a curriculum where all students develop a high standard of scientific competency to help them make informed judgements on all issues they encounter today and in the future, to encourage a love of learning.
We believe passionately in the development of key skills such as problem solving, data handling, practical skills and collaboration.
We believe science is brought to life through the integration of both scientific knowledge and skills and that through risk taking scientific endeavour evolves. We want students to enjoy their learning, whilst striving for excellence and a high level of challenge.
On this journey, we hope students will be inspired to pursue science based careers and be the pioneers of scientific breakthroughs of the future and be active citizens today and in the future.
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KS3 |
To develop scientific familiarity…
Our KS3 curriculum enables students to develop their scientific literacy and encourages them to be more curious, and ask questions about the world around them. On this journey, students develop key scientific skills and are introduced to the three disciplines of science. Embedded in the course is the knowledge of basic scientific skills such as presenting and analysing data, identifying variables, drawing graphs etc. as well as the following key topics:
Biology - Cells, body systems, reproduction, health, ecosystems, adaptations and inheritance. Chemistry - Particles, elements and compounds, reactions, acids and alkalis, periodic table, separation techniques, metals and acids Physics - Forces, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, energy, motion and pressure, Earth and space.
This knowledge ensures they begin KS4 with a firm knowledge base on which to build. |
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KS4 |
To develop scientific proficiency… We offer a KS4 curriculum where all students are engaged and encouraged to think innovatively, analytically, logically and critically in order to answer scientific questions through thought provoking lessons. Students are taught Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate subjects. On this journey, students develop their knowledge and understanding of the World and how ‘the World’ works. Through practical participation students are encouraged to think deeper which enables them to develop greater confidence in key scientific skills they are learning.
The spiral curriculum allows the key principles taught at KS3 to be revisited and developed alongside topical discussions on the global challenges faced in each science discipline. For example, in Biology, students are faced with ethical discussions related to genetic engineering and the use of biotechnology in farming. In Chemistry, students learn about the role of fuel cells in electric cars and their advantages over petrol or diesel. In Physics, students analyse the demands on the National grid and discover potential energy sources of the future. |
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KS5 |
To develop scientific creativity…
We offer a broad KS5 curriculum where students have the option of studying Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Applied Science courses individually, each taught by a subject specialist. Regardless of the course studied all students are encouraged in becoming experts in the chosen discipline. Principles of experimental design, planning investigations, making observations and problem solving within a practical context are all encouraged as well as student autonomy and independence. This equips the students with the skills that are desirable across many professions and disciplines.
The key principles taught at KS4 are developed to a far greater depth to not only spark ambition but to also create a mind-set that anything is achievable. This ultimately leads to scientific careers and scientific breakthroughs of the future. |