1. BGEN conference 18th June 2014 The new science National Curriculum Primary & Secondary Paul Davies & Jane Maloney

2. Welcome to… Creating the future of science, technology, engineering and mathematics education through teacher and technician development, consultancy and research @STEMedLondon

3. Ice breaker In pairs, discuss what you remember about your science lessons at school that is positive.

4. Timeline for the introduction of the science National Curriculum PrimarySecondary

5. Disapplication of existing programmes of study, attainment targets and statutory assessment arrangements for Primary Since September 2013 – current NC is disapplied for Years 3 & 4 – can be teaching the new one now if schools want to From September 2014 - New NC to be taught to Years 1,3,4,and 5 From September 2015 – New NC to be taught to ALL year groups.

6. Sept 2013Sept 2014Sept 2015Sept 2016Sept 2017Sept 2018Sept 2019 Y1 OldNew Y2 Old New End of KEY Stage 1 Assessment Y3 Can start New New Y4 Can start New New Y5 OldNew Y6 Old New End of KEY Stage 2 Assessment

7. Arrangements for Secondary September 2014 First teaching of new Key Stage 3 Science curriculum Compulsory education (of some type) to 18-years Autumn 2014 New A-level specifications published September 2015 First teaching of new A-levels (AS and A2) September 2016 First teaching of new Key Stage 4 Science curriculum

8. Making sense of the National Curriculum How is the new primary curriculum organised? The PoS is a detailed specification of scientific concepts, skills and knowledge, with notes and guidance which comprise background information and suggestions for lessons, including practical activities to demonstrate a concept. ?

9. Key features of the new PoS for Science Do you think this is a positive statement? Do you think this is a negative statement? Do you think it is an interesting statement?

10. Purpose of study A high-quality science education provides the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. PMI?

11. Key features of the new PoS for Science The quality and variety of language that pupils hear and speak are key factors in developing their scientific vocabulary and articulating scientific concepts clearly and precisely. PMI?

12. Key features of the new PoS for Science Year 1 pupils should be taught to identify and name a variety of common wild and garden plants, including deciduous and evergreen trees. PMI?

13. Key features of the new PoS for Science Year 3 pupils should be taught to investigate the way in which water is transported within plants. PMI?

14. Key features of the new PoS for Science It contains new content on evolution in Year 6, and references throughout to some famous scientists e.g. Linnaeus, including (some!) women. PMI?

15. Purpose of study KS 3 and 4 Key Stage 3 Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils should be encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. Key Stage 4 The sciences should be taught in ways that help students to develop curiosity about the natural world, insight into working scientifically, and appreciation of the relevance of science to their everyday lives.

16. Some key features Key Stage 3 Algae as photosynthetic organisms Plant reproduction Accumulation of toxins in the environment Gene banks Key stage 4 Meristems in plants Medicines Selective breeding in plants Genomics and inheritance

17. Working Scientifically Peer review and reporting Evaluate risks and perception of risk Translating data

18. Some Key features at A-level Cell theory (AS) Ecosystems ONLY at A2 Genomics and sequencing (A2)

19. Practical work The current arrangements don’t work as they should. Universities tell us that students starting their courses don’t have the practical skills they need. Ofqual found that under the current arrangements, assessments are predictable, leading to narrow teaching. Students will be required to carry out a minimum of 12 practical activities across the two year course. The exam papers will include questions that test their knowledge and understanding of practical work, e.g. Potometer, Osmosis. The status of fieldwork How can you encourage the use of practical work in biology?

20. Exam boards and Ofqual Linear assessment Draft materials for A-level appearing soon Public consultation for GCSE until 23 rd July https://www.gov.uk/government/consultation s/national-curriculum-reform-england-key- stage-4-science

21. Plenary In groups, identify the key issues that have been raised that relate to your own area of work. What more do you need to know?