Science - May 2024
Every time you turn on a light switch, do any form of exercise or turn on a tap, you are relying on processes and ideas that are part of the science curriculum at the National Academy. Our aim throughout the time that students are studying with us is to give them opportunities to understand and explain everyday experiences and to see the impact that science has on their lives.
We are really proud of our new sequence of lessons in Key Stage 3. These have been carefully planned to encourage the students to think deeply about the ideas they are learning about and to give them opportunities to revisit and embed the knowledge they have. Year 7 have been trialling hinge assessments for the first time – low-stakes, mid-topic quizzes that allow them to practice the work they have been doing and identify their strengths and weaknesses. Not only does this reduce the pressure on end-of-topic tests because they have already had chance to practice some of the knowledge in them, it gives their teachers valuable insights into the areas that they are finding hard, so they can support them better.
At Key Stage 4, emphasise working scientifically and practical skills, alongside the core knowledge of the GCSE curriculum. Science is a practical subject. Hands-on experiences support understanding theoretical knowledge and allow our students to actively engage in a wide array of practical activities to carry out investigations and see real-life examples of what is being learned in the classroom and at home. These experiences not only enhance academic understanding but also foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills essential for success after year 11.
Outside of lessons, our STEM club have been having a fabulous time looking at practical applications of science, as well as some more creative ones too! We’ve built a Tellurion and a pinhole camera as part of a term exploring space, made colour-changing potions as part of a Harry Potter-themed event, and built enormous towers out of spaghetti! STEM Club also enjoyed a trip to Nottingham Trent University to look at careers in engineering earlier this half term, and year 9 are eagerly anticipating their visit to Yorkshire Wildlife Park at the end of this year.
Looking ahead, our vision remains for every student at the National Academy to experience the passion for science that we all have as teachers. We hope to give them opportunities to explore nature, exercise their curiosity and discover all of the ways that their daily lives are impacted by scientific knowledge and thought.