Science

Co-ordinator Sophie

Throughout the Science curriculum in Primary and pre-school, emphasis is placed on developing scientific language and investigative skills.  A variety of topics are studied in accordance with the SEP, IB and with some aspects from the British National Curriculum.  The children are encouraged to maximise resources available to them while researching topics, where possible they will undertake practical activities to enhance achievement of competencies.  Part of the Science curriculum involves participation in the Edible Schoolyard Project, where students are active learners as they help develop organic crops and compost heaps.  Children attend workshops to build appreciation of foods which we may take for granted.

The Ecology area at Rey Yupanqui.

Science, Rey Yupanqui

Kindergarten

In Kindergarten children are introduced to Science with a series of basic investigative activities. In Kinder 1, they learn about the Animal Kingdom and think about how their bodies have changed since they were born. KII build on this by looking about healthy habits to keep our bodies healthy and learning about how to look after plants and animals around us.  Kinder 3 then go on to thinking about how we look after ourselves, the uses we have for water and also spend some time working with Forces.  In Pre-First, the students undertake experimental Science in a more formal way.  They design and carry out investigations into magnets and materials and also ask and answer questions about where the food we eat comes from.

Primary

Grade 1 further develop their investigative skills with the Programmes of Inquiry about light, shadows and reflection.  They also become more reflective and active learners when studying the importance of reducing, recycling and reusing rubbish.  Grade 1 also start thinking about the role of boys and girls in different cultures.

Grade 2 learn how to become responsible for their own bodies by eating healthily.  They learn about the impact of different colours in our environment and about the danger of different species becoming extinct.  Through these Programmes of Inquiry, the students are encouraged to think of ways to take action in response to the conclusions they arrive at.

Grade 3 look at how the body systems are connected to each other and how to keep them healthy. They also make predictions and investigate about how to make changes in materials, both reversible and irreversible.  Finally, the children spend time finding out about plants, their needs and how to care for them.

Grade 4 study and ask questions about the Senses, Space and then investigate ways in which we can help save the planet.  This topic is particularly related to the concept of Responsibility as they promote ways to preserve the environment.

Grade 5 refine their research skills and ask and answer questions about cells and reproduction in their Programme of Inquiry, Circle of Life.  They also look at how Energy is used and transformed and investigate Biomes, Habitats and Ecosystems across the planet.