Working Scientifically Progression

The progression of 'Working Scientifically' skills outlines a structured development path for students from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through to Year 6. The framework is divided into five key experimental skills: observing over time, pattern seeking, identifying, classifying and grouping, comparative and fair testing, and research using secondary sources. In the earliest years, children focus on basic observation skills and simple classification, gradually advancing to more systematic observation and complex data handling. By Year 6, students are expected to conduct experiments with precision, draw complex conclusions, and use secondary sources to interpret their findings.

Questioning is a fundamental aspect of scientific enquiry, and the progression document highlights how the ability to ask and answer questions evolves. Young children start by asking simple questions, moving on to using scientific language and conducting various types of scientific enquiries in later years. The use of scientific equipment is another crucial element, with children first using basic tools like magnifying glasses, advancing to more sophisticated equipment such as thermometers and data loggers. Recording data also becomes progressively more detailed, from simple observations to the use of scientific diagrams, bar charts, and graphs. Finally, the ability to report on findings grows from basic reporting to presenting detailed conclusions and explanations, while the understanding and application of scientific evidence develop from identifying simple differences to justifying scientific ideas with evidence.