Scientific Enquiry
To develop skills of scientific enquiry including observing, questioning, and investigating.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Understanding the World
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Makes predictions before testing
- Tests ideas through practical investigation
- Observes carefully and notices details
- Discusses findings using scientific vocabulary
Materials
- Investigation area with science equipment
- Recording resources (clipboards, pencils, cameras)
- Science tools (magnifiers, measuring equipment)
- Investigation planning tools
Instructions
Begin investigations with genuine questions or phenomena. 'I noticed the puddle in the playground has disappeared! Where did the water go? What do you think happened?' Let children generate ideas.
Support children to plan investigations: 'How could we find out if that's true? What would we need to do?' Guide them through the scientific process without taking over.
Model the enquiry process explicitly: 'First, we'll make a prediction—what do we think will happen? Then we'll test it. Then we'll look at what actually happened.' Use consistent vocabulary.
Encourage careful observation: 'Look closely. What do you notice? Is it the same as yesterday or different?' Provide tools like magnifiers and rulers to enhance observation.
Support recording in multiple ways: 'How shall we remember what we found out? We could draw it, take a photo, or I can write down what you tell me.' Value all forms of recording.
Discuss findings together: 'What did we discover? Was it what we expected? Why do you think that happened?' Encourage children to explain their thinking and listen to others' ideas.