Somers Primary School

Why teach science?

Children are curious to know how their world works. They want to find out more about the interesting situations they encounter on a day-to-day basis. The Somers Primary School Science program allows children to explore their world using a "hands on" approach. Children learn the skills and key concepts of science by learning in real life situations. Children at Somers Primary School have the opportunity to consider the large questions that will confront their generation such as, "What is the impact of carbon on our atmosphere and climate? If carbon is harmful to the environment, how do we generate electricity in a way which does not have a negative impact on the environment?".

Middle and Senior School Science

Children in the middle and senior school begin to study some of the more advanced concepts. For example, the study of magnetism includes both permanent magnets and electromagnetism. This leads on to practical problems such as building a workable electric motor. Children are also encouraged to discuss topics of importance to the world and the role science can play in solving the problems confronting the world. For instance, the children discuss the strengths and weaknesses of solar electricity.

Junior School Science

Children begin to explore their world and develop basic concepts about a range of topics such as magnetism and how worms digest waste and make soil richer. This is carried out using practical activities where children are taught to use the tools of science to enhance their learning outcomes. Children are taught to:

• Observe;
• Discuss;
• Use their past experience to bring understanding to new situations;
• Devise experiments;
• Draw conclusions;
• Use the conclusions drawn to advance their understanding of the topic; and
• Use appropriate equipment.

Science Skills

• Curiosity


• Conceptual understanding


• Experimenting


• Hypothesising


• Exploring


• Measuring


• Hands on learning


• Building


• Testing


• Drawing conclusions


• Engaging with new ideas


• Exploring the world