BIOLOGY
Biology lessons in Years 7 and 8 at Sevenoaks School focus on fostering the students ’ curiosity and interest in the natural world . There is a clear emphasis on the joy of finding things out , as well as the opportunity to develop useful scientific skills .
In addition to studying topics such as cells , reproduction , movement , habitats , respiration , classification and microbes , students are given a grounding in the scientific method and learn how to formulate research questions and test them with investigations to produce reliable results . Through these investigations they learn to identify variables and understand the need to carefully control some of these to carry out a fair test .
They also develop communication skills though oral presentations and the production of scientific posters to summarise their findings . By completing a number of group projects , students are encouraged to work collaboratively and develop their ability to work as team members towards a common goal – a skill that will be very useful in their further and higher education and adult lives . Practical activities are a feature of many lessons and we find that students often learn best by doing and get the most enjoyment by learning in this way .
Moreover , lessons often have a discussion element , with students being given the opportunity to contribute ideas and suggestions from their own experience , and , most importantly , to ask questions . Students are encouraged to challenge their own understanding and relish the acquisition of knowledge , as well as to think critically and carefully and evaluate new ideas .
THE LOWER SCHOOL | AT SEVENOAKS 19