Curriculum - Science
At Swanmore we have embraced an enquiry based approach to science which encourages pupils to investigate and explain why things happen in the world around them.
The pupils develop a variety of life skills such as how to hypothesise, predict, observe, measure, record, conclude,
evaluate, and justify the conclusions they make. Pupils become adept at making their own judgements on claims which are made in the media, using a variety of sources of information.
In the words of one Year 8 pupil:
“I find it interesting to learn through practical work, as I can actually see things happen and prove my statements.”
Becoming a college of technology has had a tremendous impact on science teaching and learning. We have been able to further equip our nine laboratories with electronic sensing equipment as well as new laptops and software. This has enriched the science curriculum, allowing pupils to collect and process more accurate data using methods which more closely reflect the modern workplace. Pupils are taught to effectively utilise the internet to access the latest scientific news and ideas. Up-to-date software is used to model scientific theories and video clips and animations compliment the experimental work carried out by pupils. The knowledge and skills acquired can be applied to their everyday life; this realisation motivates our pupils to strive to meet our high
expectations.
Some further comments from Year 8:
“I like science as we get to do experiments and test things out for ourselves, which makes it fun.”
“Science at Swanmore is ‘Hands On!”
We hope to inform and inspire our pupils into considering a career in science. We also aim to equip them with skills for life, from how to wire a plug, to how to reduce cholesterol or how to save money by insulating a house. We want pupils to be good decision makers willing to investigate what they hear rather than just accept it.
“Science at Swanmore is different because you get to know how it affects the world and you!”
After School Science and Engineering Club
The club is aimed at Key Stage 3 pupils and is designed to engage and enthuse pupils with all aspects of the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) curriculum.
The club is in its second year and is getting stronger. It is not a homework or revision club, but something new and exciting and has a real set of goals and outcomes at the end of the project.
Check out our blog here to see what we have been up to!
This year we have completed the following projects:
• Custard Science
• Siege Engine Skittles
• Electric Cars
• Hot Air Balloons
• Paper Gliders
Some our planned activities include:
• Rocket!
• Lego Mindstorms
• Is it Sustainable Energy?
• The Test Tube
If anyone in KS3 is interested in joining or any parents have a science or engineering background and feel you could help out in any way, please let Mr Foster know or email asec@swanmore-sec.hants.sch.uk or check out our blog at http://swanmoresasec.blogspot.com and the VLE for more info!
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