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Questions and answers
Why does primary science not have its own strategy file like literacy and numeracy?
The detailed planning for English and mathematics, which is contained in the literacy and numeracy strategies, can be found for science, in the QCA/DfES key stages 1 and 2 science schemes of work. Although the QCA/DfES primary scheme of work for science does not go to the same level of detail as the strategies, it is intended to serve the same purpose - to provide ideas for planning lessons/teaching activities, teaching points, learning objectives and outcomes.
Has QCA produced tests or assessment units linked to the scheme of work units?
No, but there are two publications that could provide useful assessment material related to the QCA/DfES science scheme of work units, which can be accessed from this page:
- Assessing progress in science
- TestBase - you can select past test questions according to the QCA scheme of work unit titles. It also contains formative assessment items derived from the test questions.
Is there a requirement to report teacher assessment at sub-levels/strands?
Is there a definitive guide to breaking down the level descriptions into strands/sub-levels?
QCA has not divided the level descriptions into 1(a), 1(b) strands, and there is no statutory requirement to report children's attainment in this way. However, you may find the exemplification material on the National curriculum in action website helpful.
In addition, QCA has published materials for keys stages 1, 2 and 3 science (Assessing progress in science), to help teachers with formative assessment. The teaching and learning sequence within each unit may be helpful. This section of the units includes characteristics of a level for various content areas.
Do all students have to take an examination in science at the end of year 11?
All students must cover the programme of study. However, there is no statutory requirement for students to sit an examination.
When is the GNVQ in science being phased out?
The science GNVQ (foundation and intermediate) has been withdrawn as a qualification with the last certification being March 2007.