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SCIENCE

 Science“In the PYP, science is viewed as the exploration of the biological, chemical and physical aspects of the natural world, and the relationships between them.   Our understanding of science is constantly changing and evolving.  The inclusion of science within the PYP leads learners to an appreciation and awareness of the world as it is viewed from a scientific perspective.  It encourages curiosity and ingenuity and enables the student to develop an understanding of the world.”   (IBO, 2009, Pg.93)

Science“Science provides opportunities for students to engage in scientific investigations by making accurate observations, handling tools, recording and comparing data, and formulating explanations using their own scientific experiences and those of others. Students will gain experience in testing their own assumptions and thinking critically about the perspectives of others in order to develop further their own ideas.

All curriculum areas provide an opportunity to utilise the transdisciplinary skills.   The science component of the curriculum also provides opportunities for students to :

  • Observe carefully in order to gather data
  • Use a variety of instruments and tools to measure data accurately
  • Use scientific vocabulary to explain their observations and experiences
  • Identify or generate a question or problem to be explored.
  • Plan and carry out systematic investigations, manipulating variables as necessary
  • Make and test predictions
  • Interpret and evaluate data gathered in order to draw conclusions
  • Consider scientific models and applications of these models (including their limitations)” (IBO, 2009 Pgs. 96-97)

The knowledge component of science is arranged into four strands:

“Living things

 

 The study of the characteristics, systems and behaviours of humans and other animals, and of plants; the interactions and relationships between and among them, and with their environment.
Earth and space

 

 The study of planet Earth and its position in the universe, particularly its relationship with the sun; the natural phenomena and systems that shape the planet and the distinctive features that identify it; the infinite and finite resources of the planet.
Materials and matter

 

 The study of the properties, behaviours and uses of materials, both natural and human-made; the origins of human-made materials and how they are manipulated to suit a purpose.

 
Forces and energy   

 

 The study of energy, its origins, storage and transfer, and the work it can do; the study of forces; the application of scientific understanding through inventions and machines.” (IBO, 2009, Pg.97)

Overall expectations in science

The overall expectations considered appropriate in the PYP have been identified on the bais of essential understandings and processes that can be developed at each age range.