The Lower School at Sevenoaks LS_book_single_pages | Page 22

What are things made from? Why do
things change? How do things work?
These are some of the most basic but
fundamental questions at the heart of
Chemistry. In the Lower School, we introduce
pupils to Chemistry as an individual discipline
and begin to explain what sets it apart from
other areas of scientific study. However,
pupils are also shown how Chemistry fits into
the natural sciences too.
In Year 7, pupils begin by learning some of
the key fundamentals:
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What happens during a reaction?
How small particles make up matter
What are elements and why are they so
important?
Why substances change in appearance
and properties
These concepts are taught through a mixture
of group work, practical activities and
interdisciplinary projects.
At various points in the year, pupils are
able to investigate how different scientific
disciplines come together to shed light on
aspects of life we take for granted such as
energy, food and water.
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By the end of Year 7, pupils will have
developed a strong ability to perform
laboratory experiments, have used specialist
equipment such as Bunsen burners, safely
seen how Chemistry fits into the world
around us and have had a tremendous
amount of fun and enjoyment doing so.
As pupils enter Year 8, the principles met in
Year 7 are expanded and specific areas of
Chemistry are met in greater detail. Pupils will
learn about different types of reaction and
the uses and importance of those such as
combustion, neutralisation and displacement.
These reactions are contextualised
with real-world examples, leaving pupils
with an understanding of vital industries such
as energy production, mining and
metal manufacture.
Pupils are also educated in essential aspects
of environmental chemistry and are able
to make informed decisions about ethical
choices regarding their own lifestyles. Finally
they are given short introductions to ‘future
tech’ in the form of nanotechnology and
smart materials.
Throughout the course, pupils are
encouraged to show independence and are
provided with opportunities to investigate
open-ended problems. They learn vital skills
in online research and collaboration as well
as improving manual dexterity via myriad
practical activities.
the lower SCHOOL | AT SEVENOAKS