Long-term overview - Seasonal Change - Year 1

The long-term overview for Year 1 Science focuses on the fascinating topic of seasonal change. The curriculum is designed to answer fundamental questions such as why we have different seasons and which months correspond to each season. It also explores the reasons behind the widespread affection for spring and delves into what characterises the summer season. Students are encouraged to learn the names of the seasons, understand the typical weather patterns associated with each, and recognise the specific months that make up these distinct periods.

Working scientifically, the students will engage in observation over time, monitoring the changes in temperature and rainfall as the year progresses. They'll also look for patterns, such as variations in daylight length and the transformation of leaves through their lifecycle, particularly noting the abundance of fallen leaves in autumn. This topic is the sole physics unit in Key Stage 1 and builds upon the knowledge students have gained in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), where they begin to understand the world around them. Throughout the year, they will explore and question how seasons transition from one to the next, enriching their scientific knowledge and observational skills.