This product is FREE when you subscribe to our Learning Challenge Curriculum Unlimited Plan View the Learning Challenge Website hereWhen considering the planning for mixed aged groups in science we have taken account of the 2014 National Curriculum's coverage as it does provide some support and direction in terms of the substantive knowledge and disciplinary knowledge (working scientifically) pupils should be acquiring as they move through the school. As the National Curriculum in science is set out in year groups, science planning needs to be carefully set out to avoid duplication and to ensure appropriate coverage.
We predominantly focus on teachers working with Years 1 and 2 together (but also provides support for those working with reception, Year 1 and 2 together); Years 3 and 4 together and Years 5 and 6 together. Therefore, we have created two-year-cycles to ensure that the coverage is not replicated by any pupil.
There is an appreciation that some teachers are working with different combinations, e.g., Years 2 and 3. Although these year groups are not specifically outlined it is hoped that the system used here could be replicated for any combined age groups. The Focus consultants are also happy to support schools where different age groups exist.
For the science curriculum planning we have brought together the main element within two age groups, e.g., plants or animals or materials, etc. We have also considered biology, physics and chemistry separately to aid the process. This has not been possible for all aspects, but it is hoped that teachers can see the sense of what has been set out in cycles.
The early years examples link Key Stage 1 with the learning anticipated for younger children so that the sequence of the planning starts in EYFS and moves on to Year 6.
The units of work are available to buy seperately for each overview.
View the Units of Work for Science here