Science Curriculum

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Year 6

Illustration of rocks, solar system, magnet and seedling

Year 3

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to the human body
To recognise the features of living organisms (MRS GREN)

Working scientifically

To ask relevant questions
To write a conclusion

Revision

To identify a range of materials
To recognise the different uses of various materials

Week 2

Outcome

To compare the skeletons of various animals
To explain how skeletons provide support and protection

Working scientifically

To recognise patterns
To ask relevant questions

Revision

To know the materials developed by John Dunlop, McAdam, Charles Macintosh

Week 3

Outcome

To recognise the ways skeletons allow movement of the body
To identify how muscles work

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion
To use a range of equipment as instructed

Revision

To justify which material would be best to build a bridge
To compare the uses of different materials

Week 4

Outcome

To evaluate the importance of each of the five food groups
To explain what a balanced diet is

Working scientifically

To use words to record findings
To write a conclusion

Revision

To classify different materials
To justify which material would be best to make a raincoat

Week 5

Outcome

To evaluate the importance of each of the five food groups
To explain what a balanced diet is

Working scientifically

To use words to record findings
To write a conclusion

Revision

To discuss reasons behind why monetary notes changed to plastic
To compare the price of materials (e.g. can you make a — for £-?)

Week 6

Outcome

To summarise my understanding of good health and nutrition

Working scientifically

To use words to record findings

Revision

To categorise different materials according to their properties

Week 7

Outcome

To assess knowledge and understanding of the skeleton, muscles and nutrition

Revision

To list different materials present in the classroom and justify why they are appropriate for their use

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to magnets
To describe materials that will be attracted to magnets

Working scientifically

To develop testable questions
To suggest how an investigation could be extended

Revision

To ask simple scientific questions
To explain how to answer various scientific questions

Week 2

Outcome

To show that magnets have two poles
To define magnetic field

Working scientifically

To draw and label diagrams
To plan a given type of enquiry – fair test – magnetic field

Revision

To compare different objects
To sort different objects according to their properties

Week 3

Outcome

To examine the range of a magnetic field
To discuss the relationship between magnetic field and magnetic force

Working scientifically

To use standard units when taking measurements
To present key findings in writing

Revision

To classify different objects
To recognise patterns that occurs in experiments

Week 4

Outcome

To explain how magnets are used in real life
To compare how magnets work in different situations

Working scientifically

To draw and label diagrams
To develop testable questions

Revision

To use simple measuring equipment correctly
To use times correctly

Week 5

Outcome

To identify how forces affect the movement of magnets

Trip to Science Museum to learn about magnets

Working scientifically

To plan a given type of enquiry – pattern seeking – movement of magnets

Revision

To recall what an observation in science involves
To revise what a primary source is

Week 6

Outcome

To compare how objects move on different surfaces
To summarise how different surfaces affect magnets

Working scientifically

To suggest how an investigation could be extended
To present key findings in writing

Revision

To revise what a secondary source is
To list different types of scientific enquiry

Week 7

Outcome

To assess knowledge and understanding of forces and magnets

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to rocks
To explain how igneous and sedimentary rocks are formed

Working scientifically

To use diagrams to record findings

Revision

To classify things according to living, dead and never been alive
To compare and describe differences between things that are living, dead and have never been alive

Week 2

Outcome

To describe how metamorphic rocks are formed
To compare and classify different types of rocks

Working scientifically

To ask relevant questions
To recognise patterns that relate to scientific ideas

Revision

To explain how a living thing is suited to the habitat it lives in
To outline how habitats provide for the basic needs of different kinds of animals

Week 3

Outcome

Trip to Natural History Museum – to learn about rocks and fossils
To discuss how fossils are formed

Working scientifically

To use diagrams to record findings

Revision

To explain how animals and plants depend on their habitats and vice versa
To identify and name a variety of animals in our local environment

Week 4

Outcome

To examine the properties of different rocks
To identify why some rocks are permeable and others are not

Working scientifically

To use tables to record evidence
To ask relevant questions

Revision

To identify and name a variety of plants in our local environment
To identify and name a variety of micro-habitats in our local environment

Week 5

Outcome

To illustrate how the permeability of rocks differs
To evaluate the relationship between rock type and permeability

Working scientifically

To set up a fair test
To write a conclusion based on evidence

Revision

To describe how animals obtain food from plants and other animals
To analyse simple food chains

Week 6

Outcome

To analyse the different components of soil (group and classify soil types)
To assess knowledge and understanding of rocks

Working scientifically

To recognise patterns that relate to scientific ideas

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to light
To identify sources of light

Working scientifically

To ask relevant, testable questions
To use various ways to record, group and display evidence

Revision

To recall the basic needs for animal survival, including humans (water, food and air)
To explain what is meant by good nutrition

Week 2

Outcome

To examine how light travels in a straight line
To recognise that light is reflected from surfaces

Working scientifically

To use a range of equipment as instructed
To ask relevant, testable questions

Revision

To recall key muscles in our bodies
To describe the role of key muscles in our bodies

Week 3

Outcome

To differentiate between reflected light and a light source
To explain how shadows are formed

Working scientifically

To present findings either in writing or orally
To ask relevant, testable questions

Revision

To recall key bones in our bodies
To describe the role of key bones in our bodies

Week 4

Outcome

To compare and contrast the size of shadows
To summarise how and why shadows change in size

Working scientifically

To use tables to record evidence
To present findings either orally or in writing

Revision

To compare and classify different types of rocks
To describe the characteristics of different types of rocks

Week 5

Light

To assess knowledge and understanding of light

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to plants
To identify the parts of a plant

Working scientifically

To ask relevant, testable questions
To draw and label diagrams

Revision

To match animals to offspring

Week 2

Outcome

To describe the functions of different parts of flowering plants
To recognise what a plant needs for life and growth

Working scientifically

To use various ways to record, group and display evidence
To plan investigations using different types of scientific enquiry

Revision

To examine changes in animals
To recall the basic needs for animal survival, including humans (water, food and air)

Week 3

Outcome

To demonstrate how different factors can affect the growth of plants
To outline the various requirements for growth and how they vary in different plants

Working scientifically

To set up a fair test
To ask relevant, testable questions

Revision

To examine changes in animals
To recognise that animals grow and change during their life

Week 4

Outcome

To discuss how plants absorb water
To illustrate the way in which water is transported within plants

Working scientifically

To suggest how an investigation could be extended
To draw and label diagrams

Revision

To explain how the environment in which an animal lives is suited towards meeting their basic needs

Week 5

Outcome

To examine how plants use photosynthesis to grow
To identify and label the different stages of the life cycle of a flowering plant

Working scientifically

To use various ways to record, group and display evidence
To draw and label diagrams

Revision

To examine changes in animals

Week 6

Outcome

To define pollination, seed formation and seed dispersal
To compare and describe the effect of different factors on plant growth

Working scientifically

To ask relevant, testable questions
To use standard units when taking measurements

Revision

To discuss of hygiene for humans
To discuss of exercise for humans

Week 1

Outcome

To assess our understanding of plants

Week 2

Outcome

To discuss the impact of litter on the local environment, businesses and people
To investigate the effects of litter on local people

Revision

To explain the importance of nutrition for humans
To discuss how to keep ourselves healthy and well

Week 3

Outcome

To investigate and classify the type of litter in the local area (litter pick)
To appraise and generate ways to reduce litter

Revision

To assess materials that will be attracted to magnets
To explain how magnets have two poles

Week 4

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of rocks
To recall our knowledge of animals including humans

Revision

To examine how magnets are used in real life
To compare how objects move on different surfaces

Week 5

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of light
To recall our knowledge of plants

Revision

To identify common garden plants, including trees
To identify common wild plants, including trees

Week 6

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of forces and magnets
To recall our understanding of working scientifically

Revision

To describe the functions of a flowering plants
To evaluate my understanding of functions of a plant

The topics taught in Year 3 and 4 are those recommended in the National Curriculum for each year group, within the Lower Key Stage 2 Programme of Study.

Animals Including Humans

Children begin Year 3 with Animals including Humans, as they build on their
understanding of the basic needs of animals and the importance of exercise
and diet for humans, as explored in Year 2.

Rocks

Rocks are taught alongside the geography topic of Volcanoes, allowing them to make connections between scientific concepts and real life examples.

Light and Living Things

Light and Living Things are taught at the end of Year 3 when the environmental conditions best enable the children to explore the learning objectives.

Autumn 1

Animals including humans

Autumn 2

Forces and magnets

Spring 1

Rocks

Spring 2

Light

Summer 1

Plants

Summer 2

Environmental science

Littering

Year 4

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to sound
To explain how sounds are made

Working scientifically

To develop a range of relevant, testable questions
To use a range of equipment with care

Revision

To explain what is meant by good nutrition
To distinguish between different food groups and discuss their importance

Week 2

Outcome

To recognise how vibrations travel through the ear
To discuss why sounds get fainter as the distance increases

Working scientifically

To start to use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes
To to suggest further relevant, comparative or fair test

Revision

To categorise foods in the different food groups
To explain the impact of an unbalanced diet

Week 3

Outcome

To examine patterns between volume and sound waves

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion using supportive evidence
To use a range of equipment with care

Revision

To explain the purpose of a skeleton
To identify and name some key bones in the human body

Week 4

Outcome

To analyse patterns between the pitch of sound waves
To discuss the relationship between volume and vibration

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion using supportive evidence
To develop a range of relevant, testable questions

Revision

To summarise the purpose of muscles
To identify key muscles in the human body

Week 5

Outcome

To test the relationship between volume and vibration
To analyse the results of my investigation

Working scientifically

To start to use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes
To suggest further relevant comparative or fair tests

Revision

To compare humans and other animals based on skeletons
To compare humans and other animals based on diets

Week 6

Outcome

To assess knowledge and understanding of sound

Week 7

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to electricity
To recall common electrical appliances and explain the importance of electrical safety

Working scientifically

To develop a range of relevant, testable questions
To display and present key findings in writing

Revision

To compare and group different types of rocks
To describe the characteristics of different types of rocks

Week 2

Outcome

To identify and name the basic components of a circuit
To discuss and test how a working circuit is made

Working scientifically

To make clear the key characteristics
To select and use a range of equipment repeatedly

Revision

To describe how fossils are formed
To explain how igneous rocks are formed

Week 3

Outcome

To state what a series circuit is
To draw a simple series electrical circuit and name its components

Working scientifically

To develop a range of relevant, testable questions
To start using labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes

Revision

To state how sedimentary rocks are formed
To summarise how metamorphic rocks are formed

Week 4

Outcome

To recognise the role of a switch within a circuit
To incorporate a switch into a working circuit

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings in writing
To make clear the key characteristics

Revision

To recall what soil is made of
To compare different types of soil, based on their uses

Week 5

Outcome

To research the work of Thomas Edison
To distinguish between some common conductors and insulators

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings in writing
To make clear the key characteristics

Revision

To distinguish between different variables
To identify what makes a fair test

Week 6

Outcome

To predict the impact that conductors and insulators can have on a circuit
To demonstrate the impact that conductors and insulators can have on a circuit

Working scientifically

To develop a range of relevant, testable questions
To identify and manage variables

Revision

To analyse the different elements of a fair test
To identify the variables in a fair test

Week 7

Outcome

To evaluate how conductors and insulators can impact a circuit
To assess knowledge and understanding of electricity

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings in writing

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to the digestive system
To identify different types of teeth

Working scientifically

To develop a range of relevant, testable questions
To use various ways to record, group and display evidence

Revision

To demonstrate how light travels in straight lines
To recall how shadows are formed

Week 2

Outcome

To relate the parts of the digestive system to their functions

Trip to Science Museum – digestion workshop

Working scientifically

To make clear the key characteristics

Revision

To explain why shadows change in size
To explain how shadows change in size

Week 3

Outcome

To test the role of toothpaste and the impact of liquids on teeth
To explain the process of digestion

Working scientifically

To plan investigations using different types of scientific enquiry
To display and present key findings in writing

Revision

To identify sources of light
What is darkness? Can we see if there is true darkness?

Week 4

Outcome

To explain the process of digestion
To evaluate the impact of liquids on our teeth

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings in writing
To use various ways t record, group and display evidence

Revision

To recognise that light is reflected from surfaces
To identify reflective materials

Week 5

Outcome

To describe the role of toothpaste
To identify producers, predators and prey in food chains

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings in writing
To use various ways to record, group and display evidence

Revision

To discuss everyday uses of reflective materials
To explain how ‘cats eyes’ work

Week 6

Outcome

To examine how changes in the natural world can impact food chains
To assess my understanding of Animals, including humans

Working scientifically

To make clear the key characteristics

Revision

To explain why light from the Sun can be dangerous
To describe ways to protect our eyes from the Sun

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to states of matter
To describe the different states of matter [solids, liquids and gases]

Working scientifically

To develop a range of relevant, testable questions
To make clear the key characteristics

Revision

To describe the conditions for plant growth
To recall the functions of a flowering plants

Week 2

Outcome

To compare the properties of particles in different states of matter
To start to use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes

Working scientifically

To start to use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes
To make clear the key characteristics

Revision

To explain the functions of a plant
To revise how plants absorb water

Week 3

Outcome

To recognise that some materials change state when they are heated or cooled
To discuss the stages in the water cycle

Working scientifically

To suggest further relevant comparative or fair tests
To discuss alternative equipment that could be used

Revision

To discuss the ways that plants grow
To order the life-cycle of a plant

Week 4

Outcome

To examine the processes involved in the water cycle
To describe the role of evaporation and condensation in the water cycle

Working scientifically

To start to use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes
To write a conclusion identifying causal links

Revision

To explain how plants use photosynthesis to grow
To describe the process of photosynthesis

Week 5

Outcome

To assess how the properties of states of matter can overlap

Working scientifically

To suggest further relevant comparative or fair tests

Revision

To examine how some plants are adapted to survive in adverse conditions

Week 6

Outcome

To assess our understanding of states of matter

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to living things
To use a branching key to identify animals in the wider environment

Working scientifically

To develop a range of relevant, testable questions
To use various ways to record, group and display evidence

Revision

To explain why forces are widely described as ‘pushes’ or ‘pulls’
To define the word ‘magnetic’

Week 2

Outcome

To classify plants using a branching key (flowering and non-flowering)

Trip to Walthamstow Wetlands – to study local wildlife and the role of a nature reserve

Working scientifically

To select and use a range of equipment

Revision

To identify materials that will be attracted to magnets
To classify materials according to their magnetic properties

Week 3

Outcome

To classify invertebrates using a branching key
To explain why a habitat is suitable for a given organism

Working scientifically

To select and use a range of equipment
To write a conclusion using evidence and identifying causal links

Revision

To recall that magnets have two poles
To draw accurate force diagrams

Week 4

Outcome

To collect information on how we can help endangered animals
To describe the ways in which different animals have adapted to suit their environments

Working scientifically

To select and use a range of equipment
To present key findings orally or in writing

Revision

To define ‘magnetic field’
To summarise the relationship between the magnetic field of an object and distance

Week 5

Outcome

To examine the positive impact humans have on the environment and living things
To examine the negative impact humans have on the environment and living things

Working scientifically

To use various ways to record, group and display evidence
To present key findings orally or in writing

Revision

To discuss how magnets are used in real life
To compare and contrast the different forms of scientific investigation

Week 6

Outcome

To explain how habitats change throughout the year
To assess knowledge and understanding of living things

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion using evidence and identifying causal links

Week 1

Outcome

To explain some reasons for why biodiversity matters
To recall threats to biodiversity

Revision

To draw and accurately label a bar chart
To draw and accurately label a line graph

Week 2

Outcome

To match threats to biodiversity with their solutions
To debate an issue about how to fight threats to biodiversity

Revision

To compare the properties of particles in different states of matter (drama)
To compare and categorise materials according to whether they are solids, liquids or gases

Week 3

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of digestion
To recall our knowledge of electricity

Revision

To analyse the water cycle through an experiment
To explain the part played by evaporation and condensation in the water cycle

Week 4

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of living things and habitats

Revision

To define producers, prey and predators
To identify producers, predators and prey in food chains

Week 5

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of states of matter

Revision

To explain how sounds are made
To label the parts of the ear

Week 6

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of sound

Revision

To describe how vibrations travel through the ear
To demonstrate how sounds get fainter as the distance increases

Sound

Sound is taught at the start of Year 4 as it is an entirely new topic for the
children and therefore enthuses and excites them at the start the academic
year.

Animals Including Humans

Animals including Humans is taught in the spring since the topic of digestion contains a lot of challenging, subject-specific vocabulary.

States of Matter and Living Things

States of Matter and Living Things are taught at the end of Year 4 when the environmental conditions best enable the children to explore the learning objectives.

Autumn 1

Sound

Autumn 2

Electricity

Spring 1

Animals including humans

Spring 2

States of matter

Summer 1

Living things and habitats

Summer 2

Environmental science

Science versus animal extinction

Year 5

Week 1

Outcome

To define vocabulary related to space
To compare the size and position of the planets in our solar system

Space Dome visit

Working scientifically

To select appropriate equipment following discussion of alternatives

Revision

To identify the elements of an investigation
To recognise the variables

Week 2

Outcome

To describe the movement of the Earth relative to the Sun [Day and night]
To explain why we experience different seasons on Earth

Working scientifically

To select appropriate equipment following discussion of alternatives
To use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes

Revision

To choose methods for recording results (bar charts)
To choose methods for recording results (line graphs)

Week 3

Outcome

To discuss the movement and phases of the moon
To compare terrestrial planets and gas giants

Working scientifically

To use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes
To display and present key findings orally and in writing

Revision

To recall 7 life processes
To justify living or not using life process knowledge

Week 4

Outcome

France residential and Harvest Festival rehearsal

Week 5

Outcome

To examine and compare the different stars in our galaxy

Working scientifically

To select appropriate equipment following discussion of alternatives

Revision

To explain how animals adapt to their habitats
To group living things (vertebrates and invertebrates)

Week 6

Outcome

To outline how ideas about space have developed and changed over time
To assess our understanding of space

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing
To answer questions using evidence gathered from different types of scientific enquiry

Revision

To devise classification keys
To devise classification keys

Week 7

Outcome

To define vocabulary related to forces

Week 1

Outcome

To identify the effects of air resistance
To examine the relationship between air resistance and speed (Plan investigation)

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion using evidence and identifying causal links
To identify and manage variables

Revision

How habitats change over the year
Changes to environments and threats to living things

Week 2

Outcome

To discuss the relationship between speed and air resistance
To explain the relationship between speed and air resistance

Working scientifically

To take measurements that are precise as well as accurate
To indicate why some results may not be entirely trustworthy

Revision

To recall how sounds are made
To explain how sounds are made

Week 3

Outcome

To describe the effects of friction
To summarise the effects of friction

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion using evidence and identifying causal links
To take measurements that are precise as well as accurate

Revision

To identify and name the parts of the ear
To analyse a diagram of the parts of the ear

Week 4

Outcome

To evaluate the effects of friction
To identify the effects of water resistance

Working scientifically

To indicate why some results may not be entirely trustworthy
To use various ways to record complex evidence

Revision

To express how vibrations travel through the ear
To examine a range of sound waves

Week 5

Outcome

To summarise the effects of water resistance
To describe how balanced and unbalanced forces impact the movement of objects

Working scientifically

To identify and manage variables
To use various ways to record complex evidence

Revision

To compare and find patterns between the pitch of sound waves
To compare the volume of a sound and the strength of vibrations

Week 6

Outcome

To recognise that some mechanisms allow a smaller force to have a greater effect
To differentiate between pulleys and levers

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion using evidence and identifying causal links
To use various ways to record complex evidence

Revision

To recognise the features of objects that produce particular sound patterns X2

Week 7

Outcome

To evaluate the effects of pulleys, levers and gears (everyday uses)
To assess our knowledge and understanding of forces

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion using evidence and identifying causal links

Revision

To recognise that sounds get fainter as the distance increases
To choose the best materials for insulating sound

Week 1

Outcome

To define vocabulary related to living things
To identify the characteristics of different animal groups

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing

Revision

To define key vocabulary about the digestive system
To identify the parts of the digestive system and its functions

Week 2

Outcome

To describe the life cycle of mammals
To explain the life cycles of insects

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing
To use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes

Revision

To explain the parts of the digestive system and its functions
To identify different types of teeth

Week 3

Outcome

To discuss the life cycles of amphibians
To distinguish between different parts of an egg

Working scientifically

To use various ways to show complex evidence
To answer questions using evidence gathered from different types of enquiry

Revision

To describe the process of digestion
To summarise the roles of different organs during the process of digestion

Week 4

Outcome

To compare and contrast unusual life cycles of a range of animals
To collect information about natural habitats in our local environment

Working scientifically

To answer questions using evidence gathered from different types of enquiry
To use various ways to show complex evidence

Revision

To evaluate the impact of liquids on our teeth
To give examples of how to care for our teeth

Week 5

Outcome

To identify the parts of flowering plants
To compare the life cycles of flowering and non-flowering plants

Working scientifically

To use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes
To use various ways to show complex evidence

Revision

To discuss the role of toothpaste
To define key terms- producer, prey and predator

Week 6

Outcome

To discuss how seeds are dispersed
To recognise and appraise the works of naturalists (DA)

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing
To answer questions using evidence from different types of enquiry

Revision

To recall and define key vocabulary related to the digestive system
To examine the digestive process

Week 1

Outcome

To define vocabulary related to animals including humans
To compare the gestation periods of different animals

Working scientifically

To use various ways to show complex evidence

Revision

To describe the different states of matter (solids, liquids and gases)
To compare the properties of particles in different states of matter (drama)

Week 2

Outcome

To interpret anomalous results
To recognise foetal development in humans

Working scientifically

To answer questions using evidence from different types of enquiry
To use various ways to show complex evidence

Revision

To compare and classify materials according to whether they are solids, liquids or gases X2

Week 3

Outcome

To interpret gestation data
To identify and analyse patterns in data

Working scientifically

To use a graph to record basic data

Revision

To examine how some materials change state when they are heated or cooled
To evaluate how different states of matter can mix

Week 4

Outcome

To examine the correlation between the age of reproduction of a mammal and its size of litter
To explain how humans change as they grow older

Working scientifically

To answer questions using evidence from different types of enquiry
To know how to process repeat readings

Revision

To model the process of the water cycle
To identify the roles of evaporation and condensation in the water cycle

Week 5

Outcome

To describe how the proportions of the body change throughout different life stages
To summarise the physical changes that occur in male and female puberty

Week 6

Outcome

To recognise the emotional changes that occur in male and female puberty
To discuss how to maintain hygiene and health during puberty

Week 1

Outcome

To define vocabulary related to materials
To recognise solubility as a property of a material

Working scientifically

To identify and manage variables

Revision

To define key electrical vocab
To identify common electrical appliances and understand the importance of electrical safety

Week 2

Outcome

To compare the solubility of different materials
To describe the solubility of different materials

Working scientifically

To take measurements that are precise as well as accurate
To indicate why some results may not be entirely trustworthy

Revision

To identify and name the basic components of a circuit
To demonstrate how a working circuit is made

Week 3

Outcome

To model the concept of saturation
To discuss ways of separating mixtures

Working scientifically

To use evidence to suggest further comparative or fair tests that would develop the investigation
To select and use appropriate equipment, following discussion of alternatives

Revision

To explain what a series circuit is
To illustrate a simple series electrical circuit and name its components

Week 4

Outcome

To test ways of separating mixtures
To differentiate between reversible and irreversible changes

Working scientifically

To use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes
To write a conclusion using evidence and identifying causal links

Revision

To illustrate a parallel circuit and identify its components
To recognise the role of a switch within a circuit

Week 5

Outcome

To distinguish between different types of conductivity (thermal/ electrical)
To design an investigation related to conductivity (thermal or electrical)

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion using evidence and identifying causal links
To identify and manage variables

Revision

To demonstrate how to incorporate a switch into a working circuit
To appraise the work of Thomas Edison

Week 6

Outcome

To test and explain conductivity
To explain how the conductivity of materials differs

Working scientifically

To take measurements that are precise as well as accurate

Week 1

Outcome

To state the materials needed for combustion to occur
To assess my understanding of materials

Working scientifically

To use labelled diagrams to show complex outcomes

Revision

To recognise some common conductors
To recognise some common insulators

Week 2

Outcome

To describe the hydrosphere
To identify how water from different sources is used

Revision

To identify the effects of air resistance
To describe the effects of water resistance

Week 3

Outcome

To discuss problems with water use
To explain how humans can improve water use

Trip to Walthamstow Wetlands

Revision

To compare the effects of friction
To differentiate between pulleys and levers

Week 4

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of space
To recall our knowledge of forces

Revision

To recognise that some mechanisms allow a smaller force to have a greater effect
To analyse the effects of pulleys, levers and gears

Week 5

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of living things
To recall our knowledge of materials

Revision

To describe the movement of the Earth relative to the sun
To explain why we experience different seasons on Earth

Week 6

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of working scientifically

Revision

To recall the meaning of a ‘life cycle’
To illustrate the life cycle of flowering plants

The topics taught in Year 5 and 6 are those recommended in the National Curriculum for each year group, within the Upper Key Stage 2 Programme of Study.

Space

Year 5 start the year with Space as it is an entirely new topic for the children and therefore enthuses and excites them at the start the academic year.

Forces

Forces follows the Space topic, allowing the children to further enhance their understanding of concepts briefly explored already, such as gravity.

Living Things

Living Things is taught in the spring, when the environmental conditions best enable the children to explore the learning objectives. Animals including humans, explores the growth and development of living things, excluding puberty – which is now taught in Year 6 during PSHE lessons.

Properties and Changes of Materials

Properties and Changes of Materials are taught alongside Design and Technology lessons, allowing children to apply their scientific vocabulary and knowledge to practical projects.

Autumn 1

Space

Autumn 2

Forces

Spring 1

Living things

Spring 2

Animals including humans

Summer 1

Properties of materials

Summer 2

Environmental science

Water use and conservation

Year 6

Autumn - First half term

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to light
To show how light appears to travel in straight lines

Working scientifically

To suggest which type of enquiry is likely to be successful at providing answers to a particular question

Revision

To recall the order of the planets
To compare the size and position of the planets in our solar system

Week 2

Outcome

To recognise how the human eye works
To analyse how the path of a ray can be altered using reflection

Working scientifically

To explain why a labelled diagram may be particularly effective
To consider how modifying equipment can improve results

Revision

To describe the movement of the Earth relative to the sun
To explain why we experience different seasons on Earth

Week 3

Outcome

To compare and contrast the opacity of different materials
To test the opacity of different materials

Working scientifically

To suggest which type of enquiry is likely to be successful at providing answers to a particular question
To recognise variables that cannot easily be managed

Revision

To describe the movement of the moon
To identify and describe the phases of the moon

Week 4

Outcome

To explain refraction
To examine the composition of light

Working scientifically

To explain why a labelled diagram may be particularly effective
To consider how modifying equipment can improve results

Revision

To define terrestrial and gas giant
To summarise events that lead to the ‘big bang’

Week 5

Outcome

To describe how shadows are formed
To construct a line graph to display complex data

Working scientifically

To recognise variables that cannot easily be managed
To explain the advantages of line graphs

Revision

To examine and the different stars in our galaxy

Week 6

Outcome

To assess our knowledge and understanding of light

Revision

To assess how ideas about space have developed and changed over time

Week 7

Autumn - Second half term

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to the circulatory system
To identify and name the main parts of the human circulatory system

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing

Revision

To identify forces that impact upon everyday life
To define gravity and describe its effect

Week 2

Outcome

To describe the function of the heart in the circulatory system

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing
To recognise the limitations of available equipment

Revision

To identify the effects of air resistance
To illustrate and label an accurate force diagram

Week 3

Outcome

To outline the role of blood vessels and blood
To describe the journey blood takes around the body

Working scientifically

To recognise the limitations of available equipment
To display and present key findings orally and in writing

Revision

To summarise the effects of water resistance
To describe situations when water resistance occurs

Week 4

Outcome

To describe the journey blood takes around the body
To discuss the effect that exercise has on heart rate

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing
To identify situations in which taking repeat readings will improve the quality of evidence

Revision

To explain the effects of friction
To recall everyday situations where friction is present

Week 5

Outcome

To investigate the effect that exercise has on heart rate
To evaluate the effect that exercise has on heart rate

Working scientifically

To evaluate which further comparative or fair tests would be particularly useful
To indicate in conclusions why the results may not be entirely trustworthy

Revision

To distinguish between pulleys and levers
To describe everyday uses for pulleys and levers

Week 6

Outcome

To explain how nutrients and water are transported in animals, including humans
To recognise the impact of diet, exercise, drugs and lifestyle on the body

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing
To evaluate which further comparative or fair tests would be particularly useful

Revision

To recognise that some mechanisms allow a smaller force to have a greater effect
To compare the effects of pulleys, levers and gears

Week 7

Outcome

To examine the features of a heart when completing a dissection and relate it to my knowledge of its functions
To assess our knowledge of the circulatory system

Working scientifically

To recognise the limitations of available equipment

Revision

To identify forces that impact upon everyday life
To define gravity and describe its effect

Spring - First half term

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to classification
To select ways in which living things can be divided into broad groups

Working scientifically

To evaluate ways of recording complex data

Revision

To review the life cycles of humans
To understand stages of development

Week 2

Outcome

To classify plants and animals based on specific characteristics
To recognise the stages in our classification system

Working scientifically

To suggest possible limits to causal relationships
To evaluate ways of recording complex data

Revision

To understand the emotional changes that occur in male and female puberty

Week 3

Outcome

To demonstrate how broad groups can be subdivided
‘To appraise the work of Carl Linnaeus

Working scientifically

To suggest possible limits to causal relationships
To display and present key findings orally and in writing

Revision

To discuss how to maintain hygiene and health

Week 4

Outcome

To construct a dichotomous classification key
To create a branching key to identify trees

Working scientifically

To evaluate ways of recording complex data
To indicate in conclusions why the results may not be entirely trustworthy

Revision

To understand the stages of human and animal gestation

Week 5

Outcome

To create a branching key to differentiate between arthropods
To create a branching key to identify invertebrates

Working scientifically

To evaluate ways of recording complex data
To indicate in conclusions why the results may not be entirely trustworthy

Revision

To define key vocabulary (life cycle, germination, pollination, naturalist, metamorphosis)
To identify characteristics of different animal groups

Week 6

Outcome

To evaluate why classification is necessary
To assess our understanding of classification

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing

Revision

To understand the life cycle of mammals
To understand the life cycles of amphibians and insects

Spring - Second half term

Week 1

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to evolution

Revision

To recall the life cycles of birds

Week 2

Outcome

To recognise and describe inherited characteristics

Working scientifically

To evaluate which further tests would be particularly useful

Revision

To describe the functions of parts of a flower

Week 3

Outcome

To explain how humans have evolved over time

Working scientifically

To display and present key findings orally and in writing

Revision

To order the stages of life cycle of flowering plants

Week 4

Outcome

To illustrate and explain how living things change over time

Working scientifically

To suggest possible limits to causal relationships

Revision

To summarise what a naturalist does

Week 5

Outcome

To give examples of how living things change over time

Working scientifically

To identify situations in which taking repeat readings will improve the quality of evidence

Revision

To recall the gestation periods of different animals

Week 6

Outcome

To analyse scientific evidence that has been used to support arguments (fossils)

Working scientifically

To explain why a labelled diagram might be particularly effective

Summer - First half term

Week 1

Outcome

To identify how fossils support our understanding of evolution
To assess our understanding of evolution

Working scientifically

To explain why a labelled diagram might be particularly effective

Revision

To define solubility and saturation

Week 2

Outcome

To define key vocabulary related to electricity
To use symbols when drawing a simple circuit diagram

Working scientifically

To explain why a labelled diagram might be particularly effective

Revision

To discuss ways of separating mixtures

Week 3

Outcome

To explain the relationship between voltage input and power output

Working scientifically

To write a conclusion using evidence and identifying causal links

Revision

To differentiate between reversible and irreversible changes

Week 4

Week 5

SATs Week

Week 6

Outcome

To distinguish between the various components of a circuit

Working scientifically

To suggest which type of enquiry is likely to be more successful at providing answers to a particular question (plan investigation to identify effects of changing one component)

Revision

To explain which materials are needed for combustion to occur

Summer - Second half term

Week 1

Outcome

To identify the effects of changing one component in

Working scientifically

To recognise variables that cannot be easily managed

Revision

To explain electrical conductivity

Week 2

Outcome

To explain the role of conductors and insulators in a circuit

Working scientifically

To evaluate ways of recording complex data

Revision

To describe thermal conductivity

Week 3

Rhos y Gwaliau

Week 4

Outcome

To recall the main types of fossil fuels and their source
To describe the harmful effects of fossil fuels

Week 5

Outcome

To summarise the impact of climate change
To compare ways of reducing fossil fuel use

Week 6

Outcome

To recall our knowledge of light
To recall our knowledge of animals including humans

Light

Year 6 start the year with Light. This is a topic they have not explored since Year 3, so it provides an opportunity to refresh and build upon their existing knowledge.