We use resources from Developing Experts to support teachers to engage the children with the topic, explore core knowledge, vocabulary and concepts. This resource also provides opportunities to see how ‘real scientists’ would apply the knowledge they are learning. Teachers support children to learn the foundational knowledge and concepts required to complete related investigations that allow them to practise their scientific skills and embed their knowledge. By upper Key Stage 2, children will be expected to lead on investigation design and have greater autonomy in selecting an appropriate methodology. The pupil-led investigations in the final term of each year will allow children to build on what they have learned during the year to undertake an investigation that is of particular interest to them. Where appropriate, in Year 6, we encourage children to conduct research with a ‘real’ audience in mind, determining how best to share their findings and conclusions accordingly.

The core knowledge, and the investigations that embed and develop this, are summarised below: