ASE 2027 Annual Conference

How can we teach primary science in ways that are both rigorous and genuinely meaningful?

This interactive session explores how cross-curricular topics such as energy, climate, and sustainability can be taught through enquiry-driven, real-world contexts. Grounded in the primary science curriculum, it demonstrates how linking to geographical understanding—such as rocks and soils, water systems, habitats, environments, and human impact—can strengthen, rather than dilute, disciplinary knowledge.

Participants will take part in a practical renewable energy investigation, modelling how pupils can ask questions, test ideas, and interpret results. The session also introduces free, adaptable resources and shows how they can be used to support substantive and disciplinary knowledge and skills.

We will also explore how initiatives like the Great Science Share for Schools and Practical Action projects can provide purpose and audience for pupil learning, raising engagement and science capital.
You will leave with clear, classroom-ready approaches that combine strong science pedagogy with meaningful context—without increasing workload.

By the end of the session, participants will:
• Explore enquiry-based science lessons using real-world energy and sustainability contexts
• Apply strategies to support pupils in asking questions, investigating, and communicating findings
• Integrate opportunities for purposeful talk to strengthen scientific reasoning
• Be ready to implement at least one practical, evidence-informed strategy in their classroom

Background: This session draws on classroom practice and cross-curricular curriculum development, with a focus on improving how pupils engage with complex scientific ideas such as energy and climate. My work has been shaped by integrating science and geography to provide meaningful, real-world contexts that support both conceptual understanding and pupil motivation.

I have collated, developed and trialled classroom approaches where pupils ask their own questions, investigate renewable energy systems, and communicate their findings—leading to improved engagement, confidence, and scientific reasoning.